Two sections of the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Global Health Elective recently concluded, encompassing a total of 19 students and nine faculty/clinician mentors who all safely returned and reported a great experience!

Friends of the Redeemer United, St. Elizabeth, Jamaica (1.5 weeks)

Eleven new Doctor of Physical Therapy graduates recently returned from St. Elizabeth Parish, Jamaica, with Friends of the Redeemer United (ForU). ForU was founded by Arcadia alumna Brooke Riley ’04DPT, who has lived in Jamaica and run outpatient, home health, and day-rehab PT programs for over 15 years. The day rehabilitation model focuses on high-intensity and high-volume therapies for select individuals over a week and a half, often resulting in significant clinical gains in this short period of time.

“This experience was truly transformative — in just a few days, I saw remarkable progress in stroke recovery, felt the deep sense of community and support, and gained personal insights that left me both inspired and grateful. I would wholeheartedly recommend this opportunity to future students.”

When not in the clinic, students enjoyed the local area with hiking, swimming, church services, and (friendly?) games of pickleball! Big ups for the amazing work, team!

*All photos taken with consent

Hearts in Motion, Zacapa, Guatemala

In partnership with SPTs and faculty from Drexel University, eight new Doctor of Physical Therapy graduates from AU’s residential and hybrid pathways recently completed a two-week collaboration with Hearts in Motion in Guatemala. AUDPT has been in partnership with Hearts in Motion for 18 years –  this trip focused on support of local physiotherapists in established clinics, and mobile wellness/PT screening clinics in communities without access to therapy services across southern Guatemala. When the students were not treating, they immersed themselves in the local culture, including pickup soccer games, Mayan ruins, and a visit to Antigua, the historical seat of the capital. 

“I am so grateful to have had this experience and to have learned so much not only from other students and clinicians, but from the people in Guatemala.”

Prior to any international travel, every student and mentor also completes a curriculum focused on the ethics of short-term global health engagements, the host culture, global health trends, and Spanish language training. Thank you for all of your work and shared reflections, team – we are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate and learn with you!

*All photos taken with consent