This summer, a group of UT College of Social Work students traded classrooms for the streets of Rome, the communities of Kenya, and the neighborhoods of the Dominican Republic. Through the UTCSW’s international study abroad programs, these students didn’t just earn course credit — they gained once-in-a-lifetime perspectives on global cultures, social work practices, and their own futures.
Whether washing dishes with local women in Kenya or exploring healthcare systems in Rome, students returned home with unforgettable memories and a deeper understanding of social work as a global profession.
Global Experiences, Personal Transformations
For senior BSSW student Chris Sarrazin, the opportunity to travel to Kenya came at just the right time.
“I’m a non-traditional student with half a dozen children, so extensive responsibilities tend to limit opportunities,” Sarrazin shared. “This trip just so happened to be perfectly scheduled following the spring semester. I was really unsure about committing, but my partner and one of the faculty leaders offered a ton of support and reassurance, and it really paid off.”
From breathtaking safaris to heartwarming human connections, Sarrazin found the experience very impactful.
“The most incredible aspect was how welcoming the people of Kenya were. It felt like a home away from home.”
His time in Kenya also provided new insights and practical ideas to support his long-term goal of creating a nonprofit that reimagines mental health care through holistic approaches.
Ella Echo Chagall Aldridge, also a senior in the BSSW program, shared Sarrazin’s enthusiasm for Kenya. “It had everything I wanted… a program just for social work students, a school visit for my licensure path, and even a safari as a treat,” she said.
But the most impactful moment wasn’t on the itinerary. After a meal at a community center, Aldridge and her classmates joined local women to wash dishes and sang songs together, including “Rocky Top”.
“In these moments, I felt so at peace and connected to my new friends… It reaffirmed to me why I chose social work — not only because of the drive I have to engage in global issues, but because of the wonderful community I’ve found in the College of Social Work.”
For Vallee Vanover, a junior BSSW student who traveled to Rome and London through the Comparative Healthcare Systems program, the draw was the opportunity to examine how different countries approach health and social care.
Caroline Beckman, an online MSSW student who participated in the program in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, echoed many of the same takeaways. Hoping to strengthen her Spanish skills and deepen her understanding of Latinx communities, Beckman said the trip broadened her cultural humility and reinforced her commitment to community-based social work. “We met so many individuals who serve their communities in beautiful ways, which inspires me to stay grounded in community work as I continue in my social work career,” she said.
Advice for Future Travelers
“This experience shaped my perspective on social work because I got to see how social workers operate in other countries,” Vanover said. “It influenced my future career goals because I now have an interest in international social work.”
Despite initial nerves, all three students encourage others to take the leap.
“I am so happy I took this opportunity even though it was way out of my comfort zone,” said Vanover. “It was so worth it, and I made so many new friends!”
Sarrazin added, “Anywhere you go, even for just a couple of weeks, has the opportunity to be a life-changing experience. Use what’s available to you while you have it.”
Aldridge emphasized the importance of funding resources: “I was very scared about finances, but there are so many resources for funding, both from UT and outside sources. I managed to pay for two-thirds of my program with scholarships. Start with what you want, and find a way to make it work.”