Therapy Abroad in Belize!

Marisa Spagnolo Start Date: Nov 3, 2018 - End Date: Jun 1, 2019
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Professional Development
  • Volunteer Trip

My Travel Story

by: Marisa Spagnolo Start Date: Nov 3, 2018 - End Date: Jun 1, 2019
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Professional Development
  • Volunteer Trip
From July 20, 2019 to August 3, 2019 I will be traveling to Belize with a team of ASHA certified Speech Language Pathologists to assess the need for and implement Augmentative & Alternative Communication devices. 

Myself along with 9 other Speech Language Pathology students will accompany them to implement sustainable and culturally relevant Augmentative/Alternative Communication (AAC) interventions that will significantly impact the functional communication of local school-age children with little to no functional speech. During this experience, we will be mentored by the certified SLPs to evaluate the school-aged students and write reports discussing their communication needs. Following the report writing process, we will have the opportunity to purchase locally sourced materials to construct AAC systems that are sustainably designed and take into consideration the needs of the local population. Finally, in a play-based summer camp atmosphere, we will implement the systems using the most current evidence based practice considerations. 

As an undergraduate student, my dream was to study abroad. However, due to the intensive nature of my program I never have the time or opportunity to do so. When I learned about this program I knew this was the perfect opportunity to further my education, gain more hands on clinical experience and continue to build my resume/network in the field.

Updates

2

  • Thank You For Your Support!

    I am so excited to see the amount of support I have received for my therapy abroad trip! I have raised 21% of my goal and I still have 5 months to go before the final payment for my trip is due. I am so thankful for everyone who has donated and shared my page! Thank you all for your continued support! Don't forget to check out my Yankee Candle fundraiser for all your holiday needs!!

  • 13% In 4 Days!

    Thank you to everyone who has donated and shared my page so far! I am in awe that I have raised 13% of my goal in just 4 days! Please continue to share over the next few months and lets see how far this page can go!