Southern Illinois University-Carbondale Study Abroad: Global Seminar in Speech Language Pathology & Audiology Brazil 2023
Published December 2023 in the ISHA Voice
By Dr. Juhi Kidwai & Gretta Wulf
Dr. Juhi Kidwai and Gretta Wulf were invited to contribute this article by the Communications Committee.
Imagine embarking on an educational adventure that not only enriches your academic experience but also immerses you in a vibrant cultural tapestry. If you're passionate about speech-language pathology and audiology and yearn to broaden your horizons, the Southern Illinois University Carbondale and University of São Paulo (USP) in Bauru, Brazil offers an extraordinary study abroad program that might just be your ticket to an unforgettable learning experience.
USP: A Beacon of Excellence
The University of São Paulo, nestled in the heart of Brazil's most populous city, is renowned globally for its academic excellence. Established in 1934, USP has consistently ranked as one of Latin America's top institutions, offering a diverse range of programs, including Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology at Bauru campus.
An Educational Oasis
SIU-C Communication Disorders and Sciences Program has set up this unique Study Abroad program at USP for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology. This Study Abroad program provides a unique opportunity for American and international students to immerse themselves in a multicultural learning environment. Here's a glimpse into why it's a must-consider destination:
1. World-Class Faculty: At USP, participants had the privilege of learning from distinguished professors and researchers who are experts in their fields. Their mentorship and guidance undoubtedly enriched participants’ understanding of speech-language pathology and audiology.
2. Cutting-Edge Facilities: The university boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including well-equipped labs and clinics, where students can gain hands-on experience. These resources ensured that students receive the highest quality education.
3. Global Perspectives: Interacting with a diverse student body, including peers from various corners of the world, encouraged a global perspective in undergraduate and graduate studies. American students learned through hands-on clinical experiences and also from the experiences and insights of fellow Brazilian students.
4. Cultural Enrichment: Beyond academics, USP's location in Bauru, São Paulo offers a unique cultural experience. The city is a melting pot of cultures, known for its vibrant music scene, delectable cuisine, and exciting festivals. Exploring Bauru and São Paulo is like embarking on a journey of cultural immersion.
5. Research Opportunities: Brazil is a hub for research in the field of speech-language pathology and audiology. USP's program offers students the chance to engage in research projects, contributing to the ever-evolving knowledge base of the field.
A Typical Day at USP
Picture your day at the University of São Paulo: you started with scrumptious local breakfast and coffee followed by engaging lectures that provide a strong theoretical foundation. These were complemented by practical sessions where you apply what you've learned in real-world scenarios, working with actual clients under the guidance of experienced faculty.
After university activities, you had the opportunity to engage in extracurricular activities, such as cultural exchange events, exploring the city's vibrant neighborhoods, and experiencing the local cuisine and drinks. This blend of academics and cultural immersion created a holistic learning experience.
The Language Barrier
One concern that might cross your mind is language. While Portuguese is the primary mode of communication, USP faculty and students support the English-speaking students with one-to one translation. Mostly, the study abroad program this year had a one to one buddy system where each English speaking student had a Portuguese-English speaking USP buddy.
Final Thoughts
Studying abroad is more than just acquiring knowledge; it's about personal growth, cultural enrichment, and forging lifelong connections. The Southern Illinois University Carbondale-University of São Paulo's Study Abroad Program in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology combines academic excellence with cultural immersion, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a transformative learning experience.
So, if you're ready to embark on a journey that will not only enhance your academic skills but also open your eyes to the beauty of Brazilian culture, consider the SIUC-USP Study Abroad – where the world of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology awaits your exploration. It's an adventure of a lifetime, promising to leave you with memories and knowledge that will last forever.
Also, hear it from a student who took this trip:
This study abroad trip was to the University of São Paulo, Bauru Campus. This campus only focuses on three professions: speech-language pathology, dentistry, and medical services. We explored campus and the city guided by students and professors. We toured the facilities including classes, hospitals, and clinic/therapy rooms. They offered demonstrations in audiology (screenings, hearing aids, cochlear implants), voice, neurology, genetic disorders, aphasia, feeding/swallowing, facial/cranial anomalies, and anatomy. We received hands on experience with a variety of evaluations and treatments. We were given the opportunity to observe clients from all the categories listed above and client of all ages.
This trip was impactful in many ways. Cleft palate is a topic I was curious about but had very limited knowledge in. This piqued my interest in this seminar, and I was given the opportunity to have that exposure. In addition to that, as a clinician it opened me up to new interests I wasn't previously leaning towards. Originally, I had interests in feeding and swallowing, audiology, and language development. I was primarily interested in pediatrics. When we explored and spent time in the aphasia house, I was absolutely blown away how much I enjoyed those sessions and that population. That experience altered my view of what I may want to focus on and where my passion may lie in the future as far as specializations, setting, and population. This experience also expanded my interest in bilingual clients and I really had an appreciation for the healthcare system they used. It is well-received in their community and helps a lot of families.
There are a lot of incredible reasons why a student should participate in an opportunity like this if an opportunity is provided. First, students will gain an educational experience in their field of interest. It provides you with a hands-on experience and can present you with a new perspective. It helps a student gain clarity on what they are passionate about and direction on a certain path. It can extend the students’ knowledge on topics in their schooling and future career. Also, opportunities like this one allow the student to travel the world and be submerged in a different culture and/or language. I think we have a lot to learn from other countries and it’s important to gain an understanding and at least be exposed to culture different than the one a student comes from to create a more well-rounded individual/student/clinician. In the field of speech language pathology like other health care professions, we are exposed to different cultures and languages. Finally, this is an opportunity to meet some incredible people and create irreplaceable memories. Everyone was incredibly welcoming and warm. We participated in a lot of fun activities and explore the city. I still am in contact with students in Sao Paulo and consider them friends. I have access to amazing professors I can reach out to and network with.
Juhi Kidwai, PhD, is an assistant professor in the communication sciences and disorders program at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale. She works closely with her colleagues at the program to take students for this Study Abroad Brazil experience.
Gretta Wulf attends Southern Illinois University as a first-year graduate student. She hopes to continue traveling in her career as speech-language pathologist.
