University of Dalhousie OT- 2017 Kelsey Busson March to April 2017
I had an exceptional learning experience at Amar Seva Sangam, both personally and professionally. ASSA is truly an incredible place. Because of the wide variety of services offered at ASSA, we were able to choose which practice areas to focus on based on our personal learning objectives, as well as the needs and goals of the greater ASSA community. All staff at ASSA were very kind, hospitable, and made us feel like a valuable part of the team. They were always willing to answer our many questions about the clinical work, life at ASSA and South Indian culture in general. ASSA maintains an inspiring commitment to developing creative and sustainable solutions to everyday challenges. A major highlight of my experience was collaborating with my student partner (Alina), Mahi (OT), and two individuals living at ASSA to develop a peer support group to address mental health concerns among individuals in the spinal cord injury unit, because everyone involved was so passionate and enthusiastic about the project and making it come to life. The challenges associated with language barriers, cultural differences, and working in a low-resource setting taught me valuable lessons in communication, creativity, flexibility and cultural humility that I will carry with me into my future practice. I feel wholeheartedly thankful to have been given the opportunity to learn at ASSA, and I would highly recommend completing a clinical placement or volunteering there to any future students or practicing therapists. Thank you to everyone at ASSA and Handi-Care International for making this placement possible I will always reflect on my experience with special memories and a grateful heart.
