Innovative Models of Care and Support – Study Abroad in Ireland & Northern Ireland
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—In 2007, Dr. Maureen Mickus, Professor of Occupational Therapy, created a unique study abroad program in Ireland and Northern Ireland. With only a single-year hiatus, the program has run continuously ever since and is recognized as the longest-running study abroad program at Western Michigan University.
Designed to expose students to innovative models of care and support—with a strong emphasis on older adults—the program offers a wide range of immersive learning experiences. Students have visited award-winning dementia care homes, engaged with children at a special needs school, attended a crash course at Guide Dogs UK, enjoyed a day of dinner and dancing at a rural adult day program, toured an urban farm supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities, and experienced full immersion at a Men’s Shed—a unique community model popular across Europe.
For many years, participants have also spent a day interacting with students at Ulster University, fostering academic exchange and cross-cultural understanding. Beyond the academic programming, students have explored Ireland’s stunning natural and historic sites, including Slieve League—one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs—ancient tombs and monastic ruins, medieval castles, and the remarkable Giant’s Causeway. They also participate in political tours in Northern Ireland to better understand “The Troubles,” the decades-long conflict rooted in political, national, and religious divisions between Protestant unionists and Catholic nationalists.
Dr. Mickus shares that her favorite part of the program is witnessing students’ connections with the Irish people. “I’m grateful for the many partnerships in Ireland and Northern Ireland that allow our students to meet and learn about this culture first-hand. Whether it’s sharing tea with elders, touring a school with children, or enjoying Irish stew with gentlemen from the Men’s Shed, students gain a deeply personal understanding of how culture influences health and well-being.”
She adds, “The personal and academic lessons learned during our time abroad could never be replicated in a classroom setting. I also appreciate how this program often instills confidence in students—especially those who have traveled very little or may be more introverted.”
To date, more than 500 students from a wide range of disciplines—including occupational therapy, nursing, social work, speech-language pathology, interdisciplinary health, business, and engineering—have participated in this transformative program.