Ireland Behavioral Healthcare and Homelessness 2019

For the 6th year, Mark Engelhardt (Faculty-MHLP) led the Ireland Study Abroad Program in Behavioral Healthcare at the prestigious Trinity College, Dublin and a cultural experience to the west coast of Ireland. The 8 students representing 5 different USF majors, were immersed in classroom lectures by world class faculty including Dr. Sam Tsemberis, founder of Housing First, an internationally recognized evidenced-based practice; Dr. Steve Gaetz, York University and CEO of the Homeless Hub (Canada); Melanie Redman, CEO of A Way Home Canada, Dr. Paula Mayock, Dept. of Social Policy, Trinity College and Mike Allen, Director of Advocacy, Focus Ireland.

The students were engaged in field experiences to successful homeless programs concentrating on recovery, employment, housing and community supports. They also visited the Midlands Simon Community in Athlone, concentrating on rural homelessness. Michael O'Connor, an educator from Killarney, discussed Irish history, politics, religion, language, and people with the students in week two throughout Galway, Dingle, Aran Islands (photo) and Killarney, where a day long Fourth of July celebration and parade is hosted with Irish- Americans each year.

Based on student journals, testimony and final essays, Mark Engelhardt stated "Study Abroad is a game changer for many students who grow, mature, open their eyes to new experiences, learn about global healthcare, international politics, gain new friendships, and a bit of laughter ("Craic" in Irish) along the way".