Applying learned skills in local communities inspires career-path satisfaction and two-way gratitude during study abroad in Jamaica.
A humbling, life-changing experience
– Julaine Moya, SPC Student, Jamaica Dental Program, October 2018
I will begin by saying that my participation in the dental hygiene study abroad program in Jamaica was life changing. It was a totally humbling experience.
I absolutely loved the mindset and lifestyle of our Caribbean friends; they are so full of love and gratitude. I was fortunate to treat patients in Jamaican clinics and educate children at a local elementary school. I still cannot grasp the fact that I have a skill that made these people so happy and feel so grateful.
In general, this trip changed my heart, it was complete magic. I will remember this experience for the rest of my life.
Being appreciated for one’s skills, talents, and knowledge
– Leonarda Malyemezian, SPC Student, Jamaica Dental Program, October 2018
The day I found out I was one of ten chosen for this program, I was beyond excited! I couldn’t wait to get started on all the things we were going to have to do to make our way to Jamaica.
When we arrived in Jamaica, my excitement turned into much more than I could ever put into words. I was ready to get to work. Every morning I was ready to go out and clean teeth and educate the men, women, and children of Jamaica, emphasizing the importance of good oral hygiene.
It was such a blessing of an experience. I felt so honored to be able to apply my skills, talents, and knowledge in a culture that not only needed these things, but appreciated them. The rate at which I learned and applied my proficiencies was exponential.
Beyond me helping the Jamaican people, they helped me to solidify the passion I have for dental hygiene and gave me reassurance in knowing that I am where I am supposed to be!
“I would do it again in a heartbeat.”
– Greta Middlebrooks, SPC Student, Jamaica Dental Program, October 2018
My experience studying abroad in Jamaica was incomparable. As in any country, some areas were lower income and others were not.
We served in the lower income communities, providing them with the services of dental prophylaxis, scaling, oral hygiene instruction, sealants, and more; while they provided us with an experience that cannot be matched.
One of the locations where we volunteered was a beautiful stone church on top of a hill with an incredible view of the ocean. There is so much that I could have said about this experience, but all you really need to know is I would do it again in a heartbeat.
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Thank you for sharing Julaine, Leonarda, and Greta!
Questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you!
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