Guyana Immersion Experience
Saint Joseph College's Guyana Immersion Program continues to grow and expand. Established in 2002 by the Division of Nursing, the Program now includes students and faculty members from the departments of Counseling, Education, Nutrition and Human Development and Family Studies.
Each January, students, faculty and staff travel to this South American nation for a two-fold purpose: to enhance student learning by participating in academic and social service activities with Guyanese students; and to conduct research on the health and educational needs of this developing nation.
The Saint Joseph College contingency works closely with the Saint Joseph Mercy Hospital in Georgetown, Guyana. The Guyanese Sisters of Mercy make the trip possible and provide both hospitality and inspiration for their visitors. The Saint Joseph College faculty and students also visit some of the other ministries of the Sisters of Mercy in Guyana including an orphanage and a program called Mercy Wings that teaches trade skills to school dropouts.
Experience in a developing country offers students a unique challenge that fosters growth and learning. This international experience is one of the most important educational opportunities that Saint Joseph College can offer students to help them develop as world citizens.
Christine Hetrick '02 went on the College's first trip to Guyana. As part of her Nursing curriculum, she and Karen Patchett '03 conducted research on the country's most urgent health care needs. Upon her return to the United States, Christine founded Restore Guyana, a non-profit organization that collects money and health care supplies. To date, the organization has donated funds for a diabetes clinic, glucometers and strip to measure blood sugar levels, and much needed funds. Today, Christine is a nurse at a local hospital and is finishing her master's degree at the College. She continues to visit Guyana and work on behalf of Restore Guyana (monetary donations may be made out to: SJC Restore Guyana Program; Attention: Office of Institutional Advancement; Saint Joseph College).
Today, students from various academic departments explore participate in the Guyana Immersion Program. Be part of this amazing experience!
