During my first practicum, I was given the opportunity to volunteer in Ocho Rios, Jamaica with Great Shape Inc!. Great Shape is an organization that empowers the children and families of Jamaica and the Caribbean by providing access to education and health care.

Upon arrival, I discovered that I was going to be working at the computer lab with Exchange All Age School in Ocho, Rios. Great Shape recently donated the lab and there was no staff available at the school. Therefore, I was the first person to implement organization into the lab. For a week, I worked with over one hundred students in two 5^th and 6th grade classes for 45 minutes to one-hour per day. Each class had at least thirty students but the computer lab was only set up with about 25 chairs and computers. The students were so flexible with the limited space by sharing their chairs with their classmates.  My goal was to teach the students the basic functions of a desktop computer, complete a research project, and encourage computer literacy. We spent the first day learning the basic functions of the computer as well as choosing our destinations. I asked students to choose a location somewhere in the world that was significant or that they would like to visit. Some students worked in pairs, while others worked alone. On the second and third day students began their research and typing their reports. The fourth day dedicated to completing their reports and proof reading. On Friday, I was able to print out all of the reports and hand them out to the students to keep. I overcame the difficulty of available printing options and was able to provide students their reports. They were all very appreciative and happy with their reports. This study abroad program created an experience that further shaped my future as a teacher and person. Cross-cultural education is so essential to making this world a more tolerant place. I recommend this program to all, and I will be returning independently to volunteer with Great Shape Inc! this summer!

–Natalie El Amrani, Jamaica Education Study Abroad Student, 2018 

Click here to learn more about SPC study abroad programs and study abroad scholarship.

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