Jordan Dewes
Overall Experience
Going to Ireland to be able to take part in participating in a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of the study abroad program was truly impactful and such an enriching experience for me. Ireland was even more beautiful than I could’ve imagined, engrossed with rich culture, architecture, welcoming individuals, amazing opportunities, and became one of the most enjoyable periods of my life. One of the most valuable experiences of the trip was seeing how they approached the topic of kinesiology and health while comparing it to how the systems and practices we use in the United States differ, and what could happen if we adopt different approaches into our training. Additionally, it was very intriguing to hear about the paths that needed to be taken to reach a physiotherapist. Examining the experiences needed and different aspects of the health care field, educational requirements, and the opportunities in the field, paired with the limitless possibilities, were inspiring. This experience gave me a deeper appreciation for different perspectives and opinions related to practices around the world while expanding my academic knowledge and possibilities for the future.
Learning experience
One of the most valuable learning experiences that happened abroad was when we went to the various sporting facilities and healthcare and kinesiology facilities in Ireland to learn how appreciated theater and various different approaches and techniques they use are, and how different it is compared to the United States. Hearing from different medical professionals and practitioners in the field and seeing how they established themselves as professionals and the steps they had taken to reach where they are today was unexpected in the most positive of ways. They helped me have a deeper understanding of the importance of this industry and the need for continuing education, adaptability, communication strategies, and the importance of patient-centered care. I learned that there are various methods and approaches that can be successful in healthcare, and the rehabilitation process will differ from patient to patient and won’t always look the same. Understanding your patient and the different perspectives in healthcare can make a deeper and stronger connection on a personal level in the future, which will help you in the professional setting with building a rapport and credibility.
Memorable experience
The most memorable experience of studying abroad in Ireland was visiting the Cliffs of Moher. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and seeing them in person left me speechless. I didn't think something could naturally be this beautiful, and it was crazy thinking about how some people get to see this every day in their lives. The cliffs were massive and full of greenery and different flowers along the trails. The views were astonishing, the ocean and the surrounding landscape were beautiful, and it was incredible to see one of Ireland's most famous landscapes, which most people do not even climb in person, as we did. It was also great to spend time in nature and take in how special this opportunity was, and how great a group of people I got to do this with, as well as how they contributed to making the trip what it was. Visiting the Cliffs of Moher was an experience of many firsts and made the ending to our trip feel even more special, providing us with an unforgettable bonding experience for the group. Studying abroad in Ireland will be something I will always remember and cherish, and will now be something I advocate for, continuing to encourage people to take the leap and study abroad anywhere in the world.
What did you not expect?
One thing that I didn't expect on this trip was learning about how differently they operate the healthcare and education systems in Ireland and the surrounding places. In the United States, getting higher education and multiple degrees can be very expensive, whereas in Ireland, it is a more affordable process, potentially slightly longer and more selective, and many of the physicians will graduate with little to no debt. Seeing the difference in person and the reactions of all of my fellow classmates around the room really put into perspective how much of a major concern debt is in the United States for professionals pursuing any degree, specifically healthcare. Seeing a completely different system and learning about the ins and outs of the process and how they are helping reduce financial pressure, allowing for more focus on studies, and less on money and debt accumulation, was really eye-opening. This changed my perspective and way of thinking about my future as a physical therapist, really making me realize the necessity of a work-life balance and taking personal time to enhance your well being, as it will only increase my abilities in the healthcare industry. Seeing professional experiences, less financial pressure, and more leisure to get their studies accomplished/feeling wanted in society and celebrated for their success, conveyed the importance of having balance in life personally and professionally to avoid burnout and provide the best care to my patients by coming to work, wanting to be there, and coming as the best version of myself. This reminded me to approach things in life a little slower, take it all in, and success will come in time, not only in the things I do with career achievement but also in my personal life, and how I’ll maintain a good balance and mental space to give everyone the best possible care/support I can provide while still taking care of myself too.
What advice would you give?
My advice for other students who want to study around is to take the leap at these once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, even if you don't feel ready or prepared for this next step at first. Before I knew about this program, I never thought studying abroad was an option for me. I was unsure if I was ready to leave the country for the first time. I didn't think leaving home for a semester was the right option for me, and I didn't know if I could work out the details. Having the option of a shorter program available to experience a new country and culture, authentic food and dance, meeting new people with similar interests, and learning in a new, enriching environment without the feeling of pressure made all the difference for me and could for others as well. I would also tell students that while you will be well prepared for your trip, keeping an open mind is crucial for success on your trip and take advantage of every experience given to you while abroad; you won’t regret it. Try different adventures, all the new foods, ask questions, be in the moment, appreciate the opportunity, and most importantly, learn about your peers and the people wherever you may go. Some of the best parts of this experience involved getting out of my comfort zone and my normal routines, while being willing to try something new and go with the flow of the day, while absorbing all of the information I could. Going on the study abroad trip to Ireland was not only helping me grow academically every day, but also on a personal level. This experience opened many doors for me, and if you can study abroad, do it; it was one of the best decisions I have ever made for myself.
How has this experience impacted your life?
This experience has impacted my life in such a positive and influential way, both on a personal and academic level. Personally, it helped me face my fears of going out of the country for the first time as well as become more flexible and open to new concepts and ideas. Additionally, it made me more confident in uncomfortable/new situations and helped me learn that it's okay to mess up or not know because it’s necessary for expanding our knowledge in general. Traveling internationally to Ireland pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to experience a culturally significant place and a different way of life firsthand. Educationally, this program expanded my understanding of kinesiology, Ireland, and different health care practices and their responsibilities/applicability. One experience that stood apart from the others was UPMC Sport Medicine and UPMC Institute for Health, where we talked with Dr. Cosgrave, the director of the UPMC Sports Medicine and the UPMC Institute for Health, Ireland. Talking to these different experts and seeing athletes firsthand gave me a deeper understanding of how the healthcare systems can vary across different cultures and how you can get to your end goal. This experience abroad influenced my long-term career goals by strengthening my interest in Kinesiology and Health and building on my knowledge/experiences to eventually help me to become a physical therapist. It encouraged me to keep pursuing opportunities that will help me grow as a person and professionally to advance my skill set and set me apart in the field. In the end, this program helped me grow in ways I never thought possible academically and showed me new possibilities as a student, but most importantly, as an individual.
How did you learn about this experience?
I learned about this study abroad experience through many emails and fairs/events, and from people who have previously studied abroad in different programs who expressed their enjoyment from them. At first, I thought it was never an option for me, and it would be impossible with my major and graduation timeline. I was also worried about spending an extended time period away from home in a completely new country. Being out of the country for the first time filled me with anxiety and was very overwhelming at times. When I did more research into the specific programs I could apply for, I found this 10-day program, and I became increasingly excited and came to see it as a great opportunity to still study abroad without the long-term commitment away from home and the pressure of a full semester. The shorter duration of this experience made it more feasible for me personally, allowing me to experience a new culture, travel internationally for the first time, and enrich my education with different perspectives and environments. This was the perfect introduction to studying abroad in a safe, culturally vast environment, which encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and pursue new experiences that I would never forget. The people that encouraged me and the advertising around campus made it very clear that this was the decision for me and I couldn’t pass up the opportunity.
International Connections