I have learned about working with a different culture and how to meet the diverse needs of the graduate students that I worked with in Belize. The cooks, tour guides, teachers, and students were all very helpful and were eager to learn. The learning was on both sides in my opinion. It was refreshing to work with a community who were eager to share their lives with us.
I worked with 3 graduate students. They mostly talked about how badly they needed the services of the students they worked with from the school and community. One particular child was not receiving services (due to lack of availability of services). We all felt that the child has so much potential and could improve his communication so much.
I would go back to Belize. In fact, I would go anywhere they are serving students. They are very organized and thoughtful in their planning. They thought of every detail of the trip from the housing, the food, the transportation, the children we would see, where we would see them as well as the really run leisure activities.
They anticipated any needs that students or supervisors would have. They had a full schedule that was balanced with work and play. The work they had lined up was rewarding and challenging, but fun. The leisure activities were engaging and fun as well. The setting was the most beautiful setting.
Their dedication to their students, supervisors and the community they serve. They are willing to provide a unique experience for the students so that they can maximize their time and get the needed clock hours and experience required by ASHA. The community was receptive to help and the teachers at the school where we served were eager to learn and to teach us about their students. Their passion was evident.
