Experience the Magic of Guatemala!
Dive into workshops, community projects, and cultural immersion to gain insights into the impact of social factors on health while contributing to positive change in communities.
 

Summary

Embark on a transformative journey with our Global Health Study Abroad Program in Antigua, Guatemala—an immersive experience tailored for undergraduate students passionate about healthcare and social justice. This unique program offers a hands-on opportunity to explore global health and public health in action through structured shadowing, hands-on community projects, and observation activities.
 

Program Highlights
 

• Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Antigua's culture while residing in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Engage with local communities, gaining insights into their healthcare practices, challenges, and successes.
• OT/PT Shadowing: Witness firsthand the intricacies of healthcare delivery by shadowing SHU faculty and graduate students in physical therapy and occupational therapy. Gain exposure to diverse patient cases and experience a global perspective on healthcare practices.
• Community Projects & Social Determinants of Health: Explore housing, education, and healthcare in relation to social justice and equity issues in Guatemala.
• Reflection and Debriefing Sessions: Process your experiences through facilitated reflection and debriefing sessions. Engage in discussions with fellow participants and program leaders to deepen your understanding of global health issues and their societal implications.
• Exploration of Mayan Traditions: Explore the integration of indigenous knowledge into contemporary life, providing a holistic perspective on social determinants of health.

Location and Accommodations

​Our teams stay in the historic town of La Antigua.  Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is full of colonial churches and old ruins.  Antigua is set up to host tourists with a variety of activities, attractions, and restaurants.  Stroll down Fifth Avenue under the famous Santa Catalina arch during your free time, or wander down to the artisans market to purchase an assortment of souvenirs.

 

Lodging in La Antigua is at Posada el Antaño and is included in the program fee.  Free Wi-Fi is available. 

Posada el Antaño,
6 Avenida Norte #36,
Antigua, Guatemala
011.502.7832.0134

All meals are provided and included as part of the program fee.  You are responsible for your own snacks, if desired.

Spring Break 2024 Program Costs

The total program cost due to Sacred Heart University is $1,950.00
$955 confirmation fee, $950 program fee, and $45 application fee.

Payment Due Dates

Upon acceptance: $955 confirmation fee + $45 application fee paid online via credit card or by check made payable to Sacred Heart University.
February 5th - $950 program fee (paid online via credit card or by check made payable to Sacred Heart University.

PROGRAM FEE INCLUDES: Program orientation sessions, international airfare from NYC area, housing in a shared hotel room, all meals, program excursions, and mandatory basic international health and evacuation insurance.

PROGRAM FEE DOES NOT INCLUDE: Transportation to and from the airport in the US, free day excursion, snacks, major medical insurance, visa/resident permit fees (U.S. residents do not need a visa), vaccination fees, mandatory trip cancellation insurance, and all personal expenses.

Program Dates

Dates: 3/2/2024 - 3/9/2024
Day 1: Depart the U.S.
Day 1: Arrive in Guatemala
Day 2: In Country Orientation
Days 3-6: Workshops, Observation, and Community Projects
Day 7: Excursion Day
Day 8: Depart Guatemala

Friday is an excursion day to explore Antigua, shop, or just relax.  Excursions are available for an extra fee and range from $0 - $60.  Excursion options may include: Hiking a volcano, zip-lining, a coffee plantation tour, horseback riding, relaxing at the local resort, and museum tours.

Please note:
Guatemala is a destination with known cases of the Zika virus and dengue. For information, please monitor the CDC’s webpage. Additional information can also be found on the World Health Organization’s website.  Travel to Guatemala is not recommended for pregnant women, women who may be pregnant, or who are actively seeking to become pregnant at the time of travel or near future.