Physical Therapy Students Complete Global Health Elective in Guatemala, Jamaica

In partnership with SPTs and faculty from Drexel University, eight new Doctor of Physical Therapy graduates from AU's residential and hybrid pathways recently completed a two-week collaboration with Hearts in Motion in Guatemala. AU DPT has been in partnership with Hearts in Motion for 19 years-This trip focused on support of local physiotherapists in established clinics and mobile wellness / PT screening clinics in communities without access to therapy services across southern Guatemala. When the students were not treating, they immersed themselves in the local culture including pickup soccer games, Independence Day festivities, and a visit to Antigua, the historical seat of the capital.

"This experience was incredibly eye-opening and taught me so much that I could never have learned from a textbook or within a classroom alone. It showed me the impact PTs can truly make in someone's life and gave me greater confidence in my clinical skills and in entering the workforce as a new graduate. I would absolutely recommend this experience to future students"

Prior to any international travel, every student and mentor also completes a curriculum focused on the ethics of short-term global health engagements, the host culture, global health trends, and Spanish language training.

Eleven new Doctor of Physical Therapy graduates recently returned from Top Hill, in St. Elizabeth Parish, Jamaica, with Friends of the Redeemer United (FOR U). FOR U was founded by Arcadia alumnus Brooke Riley, who has lived in Jamaica and run outpatient, home health, and day-rehab PT programs for over 15 years. The day rehabilitation model focuses on high-intensity and high-volume therapies for select individuals over a week and a half, often resulting in significant clinical gains in this short period of time.

"I had the most amazing experience getting to know each patient, mentor, and student better on this trip!"

"I learned so much and would highly recommend this experience for any student even just thinking about going."

When not in the clinic, students enjoyed the local area with hiking, swimming, church services, and (friendly?) games of pickleball!