Service Learning Abroad
Doctors Without Borders
Clarkson’s Doctors Without Borders chapter offers an opportunity for students to gain medical experience in a developing country. Each year, a select group of students go abroad and work in clinics for two weeks, usually in late May to early June. Past locations have included Antigua, Guatemala; San Jose, Costa Rica; Cuzco, Peru; and Quito, Ecuador. Students work alongside nurses and physicians, which provides an opportunity to explore career paths in the medical field. Before departing, students are trained in taking patient vitals and refreshed on elementary Spanish skills. Throughout the year, the group does fundraising to lower the cost of the trip. Contact: cahillam@dos5.net.
Students Without Borders
Clarkson's Students Without Borders serves as an official organization for the students of the Physician Assistant program. On past trips, the group has partnered with nonprofit Los Rayos de Esperanza in Diriomo, Nicaragua, to provide care to surrounding medically underserved communities. Members of the group fundraise throughout the year in order to cover the costs of formulary and medical supplies, as well as trip costs. The group purchases most supplies in-country to boost the local economy further, streamline travel and improve efficiency at customs and border crossings. Contact: pa@dos5.net.
Environmental Conservation in Kenya - BY399
This dynamic program commences with a spring semester course (BY399) in Environmental Conservation & Sustainable Development. You'll learn about the country's background and current state of development, and the course culminates with a faculty-led experience in Kenya, where students will explore community-based approaches regarding the intersection of environmental conservation, social and economic development and healthcare delivery within a rapidly developing African country. Contact: Professor of Biology Tom Langen at tlangen@dos5.net.