This summer I have been afforded the opportunity to have a clinical experience on the island of Saipan. Saipan is a US territory in the western Pacific Ocean with a rich history of Micronesian culture influenced by Spanish colonialism and then held by the Germans, Japanese, and Americans. It is the site of the most pivotal battle of WWII in the Pacific theater and where the Enola Gay took off to drop the atomic bomb on Hiroshima.

This is a 4-week clinical rotation and/or service opportunity. The caveat, however, is that I will not receive any credit toward my degree. Nonetheless, I will have the opportunity to treat and interact with the local population (Chamorro, Carolinian, Filipino, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, other Pacific Islanders, and people from the US mainland). I will be spending between 32-40 hours per week in a general musculoskeletal outpatient setting under the supervision of UHart DPT faculty.

Additionally, there will be opportunities to observe the local hospital and explore public health programs and initiatives administered locally. There will also be opportunities to engage with local culture and language and to interact with cultural history.

Any amount donated is much appreciated and will go towards an amazing cultural and professional opportunity.