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For my Showcase Artifact 2, I’m highlighting my Honors contract experience for PSY-B394: Drugs and Behavior, which I completed through a study abroad program in the Dominican Republic over Spring Break 2024.
We visited a rehabilitation center to learn about the SUD culture in the Dominican Republic.
THE PROCESS
THE PROCESS
For my Honors contract in PSY-B394: Drugs and Behavior, I participated in a study abroad trip to the Dominican Republic during Spring Break 2024. Leading up to the trip, I attended seven pre-trip class sessions that explored topics such as global health, ethics, substance use treatment, and human security. During the trip, I recorded daily activities—including site visits to mental health and addiction treatment facilities, cultural excursions, and service projects. My goal was to transform these recordings into a 10–15 minute video that would allow others to virtually experience the trip. I began editing the footage shortly after returning and presented the final video to my class in April.
This is the final product.
THE Results
THE Results
The final product was a visually engaging video that highlighted our educational and cultural experiences abroad. It captured the complexity of substance use and mental health treatment in the Dominican Republic, showcased meaningful community engagement, and reflected the overall impact of international service learning. The video not only fulfilled the requirements of my Honors contract but also served as a promotional tool to encourage other students to participate in future study abroad programs. It provided classmates with a unique perspective and helped create deeper conversations about global health disparities and cultural humility.
Group photo on our last day of our trip.
THE skills
THE skills
This experience allowed me to build and apply a wide range of skills. I strengthened my communication abilities by translating my personal experience into a story that could be understood and felt by others. I developed technical skills in video editing and storytelling, as well as intercultural communication while interacting with local professionals and communities. I also enhanced my ability to work ethically and respectfully in unfamiliar environments, contributing to my growth as a community contributor and global learner.
Although this trip was very educational, we still found time to enjoy the beauty of the Dominican Republic.
THE importance
THE importance
This project was both personally and academically significant. It marked my first time traveling internationally and challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone. More importantly, it deepened my understanding of mental health care systems outside the U.S. and underscored the importance of culturally competent care. As a future mental health counselor, this experience reminded me of the value of empathy, perspective-taking, and engaging with communities on their terms. It also emphasized how impactful it can be to share learning experiences in creative ways that inspire others.
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