It is hard to put into words such a life changing adventure. I have so many feelings when I think about my Jamaica Study Abroad Program experience. I think about my classmates that I became so close to, my leaders that I have been so inspired by, and the amazing people that we met. Each one has forever changed my life and has shaped the way I will look at my future profession and how I view people as a whole.
First, I would love to talk about my classmates. When we got accepted into this program, we really had no idea of the work ahead of us. Some people may look at the pictures and see an amazing 10 days. In actuality, there was almost a year of planning, preparation, and anticipation. We had constant meetings, fundraisers, and other activities together. Sometimes, the extra work was a bit overwhelming. However, I think that it only made this trip all the more worth it. We put in so much effort to get to where we were, it made us cherish every moment we had together! I made some of the most amazing memories and created a lasting bond with my sisters in dental hygiene!
Secondly, I have to give all of the credit to Mrs. Krueger and Dr. Krueger. Without their hard work and dedication to the Great Shape Foundation, this trip would not even be possible. Each day they would work from sun up to sun down. They would work the full day and then come back to make sure we were prepared for the next day. Many days they even came back to the resort and went straight to the staff clinic to see extra patients instead of relaxing. I saw how they were changing people by restoring their smile. They were both truly inspiring and give me motivation to make the most out of my career and give back when I can.
Lastly, I have to mention how amazing the people were as a whole during this Jamaica Study Abroad Program. They were kind, thoughtful, and appreciative. I have never worked on better patients. They would never complain and you could tell when they said thank you that they really meant it. Not only were the patients amazing though, it was almost everyone we came in contact with. They always had on a smile and wanted to talk and make you laugh. The Jamaican people are truly some of the most amazing people I have ever met!
Overall, this trip has forever shaped my personality. When you see people that are so happy and have absolutely nothing, you start to think about what is really most important. When we came back to the United States, I was humbled, grateful, and inspired! When I first though of the 1000 Smiles Project, I thought of the patients that we would be giving a smile to. I had no idea how I would be gaining a whole new smile as well! Thank you to Mrs. Krueger, Dr. Krueger, and all of SPC that has made this trip possible! These are the learning experiences that could never be taught in a classroom, yet are so important in the process of learning and growing as a person.
Written by Liz Smylie, 2017 Jamaica Study Abroad Program student