Breathtaking. That is the first word that comes to mind when I begin to reminisce. This study abroad opportunity with St. Petersburg College and Great Shape is an experience that I will never forget. The country of the Bahamas itself and its people are absolutely beautiful. From the moment we landed, we were treated with such respect and genuine kindness. We stayed nine nights at the Sandals Royal Bahamian All Inclusive Resort where we were able to relax after long days of hard work. On the first day of arrival, we had the chance to meet all of the volunteers who were partaking in week one. All had the opportunity to introduce themselves and give a little background. Everyone seemed to have such a big heart with years of dental experience behind them. I was very excited to work with everyone due to the fact that I knew I could learn from each and every one of them. We had support staff (with and without dental experience), dental assistants, dental hygienists, dental hygiene students (us), dental students, dentists, and registered nurses.

Great Shape faculty put in countless hours to assemble a total of four clinic rotation sites. There was a dental clinic located at a local prison, elementary/middle school, Exuma (another island), and an on property clinic for the resort staff members. I had the opportunity to experience all sites, except for Exuma. The experience with all 30 of my patients were incredible, eye-opening, and honestly, quite emotional. Many patients presented with advanced cases of periodontitis which consisted of heavy/tenacious calculus and severe staining, but we got through it as a team. Every single patient expressed their appreciation through either a hug or just simply by the look on their face. One patient had stated me “I can finally smile again”, my eyes began to tear up and I knew in that exact moment that we were truly making an impact on these individuals’ lives.

I would have not been able to have had this opportunity if it were not for the scholarship I was awarded for $1,500 from St. Petersburg College. I am so very thankful and appreciative because it assisted me with reaching our individual financial goals. SPC made this possible for me. With this experience I was able to step outside my comfort zone, help others in a safe learning environment, and bond with my classmates/instructors in a way I have never before. I truly feel that I have grown not only as a person, but as a future certified registered dental hygienist. If this journey was any indication of what the future holds, I am most definitely looking forward to my rewarding career path. – Madeline, SPC Bahamas Dental Study Abroad Program, January 2025