Dublin, Ireland Occupational Therapy internship

Stephanie McCallum Start Date: Jan 13, 2018 - End Date: May 23, 2018
  • Dublin, Ireland

My Travel Story

by: Stephanie McCallum Start Date: Jan 13, 2018 - End Date: May 23, 2018
Going across seas to a new country is taking me right out of my comfort zone since I have never left the United States, but I want to become more diverse and learn new cultures to expand my mind. It will assist me in the long run academic wise.
I intend to go into occupational therapy and this program gives the opportunity to step foot into this field and experience hands on work. Not only will it make me a better student, but an enhanced person for the field because I would be learning the techniques from those in a diverse country and understand how their culture guides the employees to benefit their patients. Just the idea of processing this information and transporting it back to America as a whole is priceless. Occupational therapy is a field that contributes those with a disability whether it is a mental disability or physical; but the imperative part of it is to teach those to be independent. Then again everyone is unique in their own way meaning that in order to absorb how to be independent, it is going to be different for everyone. Going to Ireland is the opening to learn new ways to care for these patients because of how unique this country is, and if I can learn it and teach it to others than I know this program is worth everything and is extremely beneficial.
I know what it is like to have to learn to be independent and process things differently compared to others because I suffer from a learning disability myself. I was diagnosed with CAPD (Central Auditory Process Disorder) at the age of eight, where it is similar to dyslexia but in the ears, my verbal skills are more limited, and background noises can interfere with my focusing. This disorder is so rare there are a lot of psychiatrists and doctors who do not know how to treat it. Yet, I was able to teach myself on how to be independent and be a successful student. Now I am triumphing for grad school and looking forward to my academic career. With all my durable work I have been on the Dean’s List, been on top in classes, and have assisted students with studying as well. Proving that there is not always a limit, and I intend to teach this to those in need because I know how it feels when it seems your own body is against you. I have the effort, courage, and purpose for going to Dublin this summer for Occupational Therapy, now I just need the direction.
  • Dublin, Ireland