Program Dates: March 21-28, 2026
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Tailored for occupational therapy students in the MHS program, the Jamaica Study Abroad program offers the chance to join a prestigious program delivering therapeutic services to residents of Mustard Seed Communities in Jamaica. Students will gain hands-on experience while immersing themselves in Jamaican culture and health services. Set against the backdrop of beautiful beaches, this opportunity also fulfills a Level 1 Fieldwork requirement.
Program Eligibility: Must be enrolled in the Occupational Therapy program (not open to undergraduate students).
International Travel & Health Information
Study Abroad Office
Summerville Campus
Suite 251
OTHP 6002 - Fieldwork IC (2 credits) | OTHP 7010 - Level II Fieldwork Experience (9 credits)
OTHP 6910 - International Fieldwork Experience Seminar (2 credits)
Program Leaders: Dr. Sharon Swift and Dr. Pam Kearney
Application Deposit: $200
Deposit Due: 11/07/2025
Program Fee: $2,940 (includes deposit)
Final Payment Due: 01/07/2026
Tuition & Fees: based on number of credit hours enrolled
Itinerary may be subject to change
21
MarchStudents will arrive in Kingston in the evening and travel to their home base at Jacob’s Ladder (JL), a residential facility in Moneague. After a late dinner and a brief orientation, the group will settle in for rest ahead of the week’s impactful service learning and cultural immersion.
22
MarchThe day begins with a community breakfast prepared by the students, followed by Mass in the JL chapel, where students are invited to celebrate alongside residents and staff. After an in-depth orientation and a tour of JL’s expansive campus, the group will travel to Jerusalem (Jer) in Spanish Town to tour its network of care facilities and engage in initial activities with residents. In the evening, students return to JL for a game of bingo with residents, a shared dinner, and an evening debrief to reflect on the day’s experiences.
23
MarchAfter breakfast at JL, students head to Jer for morning prayer and a team meeting with the site’s therapy coordinator. The day includes a mix of therapeutic engagement and activities with residents, including an off-site grocery store outing and meal support during lunch. Upon return to JL, students lead a baking activity with residents in the Care Plus area before concluding the evening with dinner and a group reflection.
24
MarchFollowing morning prayer at Jer, students divide into small groups to engage in direct care, therapeutic interaction, and cooking activities with residents. After assisting with lunch and afternoon care, students return briefly to JL before heading out to enjoy a group dinner at the popular local restaurant, Scotchies, in Ocho Rios. The evening concludes with optional group discussion time back at JL.
25
MarchA highlight of the trip, students accompany Jer residents and staff to Fort Clarence Beach for a full day of sun, community, and care. Meals are provided on-site as the group enjoys a relaxed and joyful atmosphere by the sea. That evening, students participate in an art and craft session (with optional games) back at JL, followed by dinner and group reflection.
26
MarchThe morning begins with a special Mass and fellowship at JL in honor of “Thank You Thursday.” Students then return to Jer to assist with personal care and beauty activities for residents, serve lunch, and sponsor an exciting afternoon dance party complete with cake and party favors. The day concludes back at JL with a group dinner and an evening concert with residents, celebrating the relationships built throughout the week.
27
MarchOn their last full day, students have the option to spend the morning assisting caregivers and visiting with residents at JL. Later, the group travels to Ocho Rios for a final beach visit and local market experience. That evening, after dinner, students will debrief, complete evaluations, pack, and prepare for departure.
28
MarchAfter an early breakfast, the group departs JL and heads to the Kingston airport to return to Atlanta. Students return home having gained a deep understanding of occupational therapy practices in an international context and lifelong connections with the Jamaican communities they served.