SPC student’s community service met with love in Jamaica

Jamaica (Dental), Study Abroad
Applying concepts learned at SPC to serve a community in need becomes a heartwarming experience during study abroad in Jamaica

– Elizabeth Cornelius, SPC Student, Jamaica Dental Program, October 2018

Being selected for the Jamaica Study Abroad Program was one of the best things that has ever happened to me. From start to finish, it was an amazing experience.

After the selection process was complete, our group of ten students came together as one and raised funds and supplies to be able to make this trip possible. We had a blast bonding and it made the trip that much more exciting to go on together.

We finally made it to Jamaica after ten months of fundraising, and my feelings towards the experience cannot be put into words. From day one, I fell in love with the people there and what they stand for, “One Love.” I have never felt as loved and appreciated as I did while I was there.

Start of the Blue Mountains just north of Kingston, Jamaica.
Photo by Bz3rk at wts wikivoyage, Wikimedia Commons [CC BY-SA 3.0].

The purpose of our trip was not only to expand our dental skills and knowledge that we have learned at SPC, but also to be able to give back to those who did not have access to dental care like we do in the United States.

I did not realize how much I would gain in return. Our group provided dental cleanings and care for five days and it was nothing short of amazing. I met so many beautiful people, learned about a culture I did not know much about before, and was able to step outside my comfort zone to serve those less fortunate. 

I thought I was going there to help change their lives, but ultimately, they changed ours. I returned home with a new appreciation for everything. I have fresh eyes when it comes to the opportunities that we have, where we live, the chance to go to such an amazing college where we are treated with such respect, appreciation for our houses, medicine, and all that surrounds us. 

I was truly blessed by this study abroad opportunity and I hope to be able to continue to give back throughout the rest of my dental hygiene career.

– Elizabeth Cornelius, SPC Student, Jamaica Program, October 2018

Thank you for sharing Elizabeth!

Questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you!

blog.spcollege.edu/international | 727-341-4735 | studyabroad@spcollege.edu

Cover image: Town of Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Photo by Patricia Edwards, Wikimedia commons [CC BY-SA 3.0].