Caribbean Care: Occupational Therapy Abroad

This was a life changing experience! I had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings and help others. It was amazing to witness the impact we made while there. I got to see the world in a different perspective by building connections with the people of Dominica. I grew my occupational therapy skills through hands-on experiences. We also had the opportunity to learn about the culture and explore the town. This was a meaningful and eye opening experience that will stay with me forever.

As a faculty member, my recent experience on a Therapy Abroad Program in Dominica was nothing short of transformative. This unique opportunity allowed both students and faculty to be fully immersed in a culture vastly different from that of the United States. The fieldwork was set in conditions that, while unfamiliar, offered invaluable lessons in adaptability, cultural humility, and resourcefulness—skills essential for any aspiring therapist. One of the most impactful aspects of this experience was the support we received from the Katie, Director of International Programs with Therapy Abroad. Her leadership and organization was great, ensuring that all students and faculty had the guidance, needed to thrive in a challenging yet incredibly rewarding environment. Katie's commitment to our success was evident every step of the way, from pre-departure preparations to on-the-ground logistics in Dominica. This immersion was not only about applying therapeutic skills in real-world settings but also about understanding the profound cultural nuances that shape the ways individuals perceive health, wellness, and therapy. The community in Dominica welcomed us with open arms, offering an authentic experience that deepened our understanding of how therapy could be effectively practiced in different contexts. The program was structured to balance professional growth with personal reflection, allowing us to absorb the beauty and complexities of the Dominican culture. We learned how to navigate challenges such as limited resources and differing health care infrastructures, all while maintaining empathy for the people we served. Overall, this international fieldwork experience was truly life-changing. The combination of an immersive cultural environment, hands-on learning, and outstanding support from Katie, made it a wonderful educational experience. I wholeheartedly recommend this program to any faculty member or student looking to expand their horizons and grow both professionally and personally.

The therapy abroad trip to Dominica was a life changing experience. With someone with a lot of general anxiety as well as traveling anxiety, I am so happy I decided to go. Katie made it very smooth by planning out every detail. I felt like I could come to her for anything and that I wasn't alone. We were immersed in the culture and community in a way I never imagined we could be in such a short period of time. The clinical experience we gained was extremely eye-opening, as was the entire trip. I will forever remember my time here and the people we met, the places we were, and how much Dominica and therapy abroad impacted the way I see the world around me.