Study Abroad & Immersion Trips
EXPERIENCE THE WORLD
LEARN OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM
Mercy College of Health Sciences offers unique opportunities to participate in life-changing experiences that will open your eyes to the world outside our doors and add relevance to your classroom learning. You’re invited to participate in these study abroad and immersion trips to explore healthcare and cultures across the world!
IMMERSION TRIPS
EXPERIENCE YUCATAN AND PINE RIDGE
VISIT THE YUCATAN STATE OF MEXICO
Experience the music, cuisine, and people of the Yucatan as you learn about the ancient Mayan culture and its living heritage. This immersion experience will expose you to Mexican healthcare services, access, coverage, and policies and contrast them to American healthcare services. You’ll have the opportunity to serve a marginalized population and gain a deeper understanding of cross-cultural issues between the U.S. and Mexico.
VISIT THE PINE RIDGE INDIAN RESERVATION IN SOUTH DAKOTA
Participate in the Pine Ridge immersion experience and gain a holistic respect for cultures of those other than your own by experiencing sacred areas and rituals not often seen by outsiders. You will learn about one of the most socioeconomic depressed regions in North America, where health disparities hold many back from reaching their potential. You will utilize your skills in service of the local community, including at the tribal elementary school, nursing school, and community center.
ADDITIONAL IMMERSION OPPORTUNITIES
- Caring for inmates at the Polk County Jail
- Providing healthcare support at the Central Iowa Shelter & Services to the underserved population in the Shelter’s onsite health clinic
- Visiting the unsheltered population in tent camps around Des Moines to provide much-needed health services
