An unforgettable professional and cultural exchange during study abroad in Jamaica.
-Nicole Robinson, SPC Student, Jamaica Dental Program, October 2018
“Being vulnerable is the only way to allow your heart to feel true pleasure.” –Bob Marley.
Vulnerability is what I allowed myself to experience in Jamaica. The love, kindness, and hospitality the people of Jamaica showed to me will forever be in my heart. Rarely a day goes by that I do not think about the ten days we all spent working in the clinics and visiting the neighborhoods.
Living in Jamaica is another way of life that seems so foreign. In the United States, I have everything from running water to clothes in my closet, but for some reason, it feels like it’s not enough. In Jamaica, as long as they have one another and some food on the table with a little shelter, they are completely content.
Last October, we made it to Jamaica safe and sound. The country is so beautiful with mountains on your right and the ocean on your left, with the bluest waters. We were greeted with such kindness upon arriving at the hotel and that kindness never stopped.
Everyday working in the clinics was different yet the same. The days were long, hot, and challenging at times. We each worked on eight to twelve patients a day who have never been to dentist and had been standing in line since 4:00 am every morning. In the U.S., those patients would have been rude and complaining but not in Jamaica, they were so thankful we were there.
When people ask: “How was Jamaica?” I cannot give them a clear answer. The days I spent there with the citizens of Jamaica and the forever bonds I created–there is no way I can put the impact of it into words. I always have to pause a second from tearing up because it was honestly the most rewarding, spiritual, and life-changing experience I have ever had in my life.
I will be forever grateful to Mrs. Krueger and Dr. Krueger for taking us on this incredible journey.
-Nicole Robinson, SPC Student, Jamaica Dental Program, October 2018
Thank you for sharing Nicole!
Questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you!
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Cover photo: Port of Historic Falmouth at sunset, Jamaica. Photo by Jacklee, Wikimedia Commons [CC BY-SA 4.0].