The moment I was accepted into the Study Abroad program to provide dental care to the Bahamian people, I knew that I would be making a lasting impact on them. This is especially true given their limited access to dental care.
When we arrived in the Bahamas, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’ve never traveled outside the country alone, so I wasn’t sure what barriers I would face. Shockingly, everything was extremely smooth. The wait for customs was a little long, but I think it really eased any nerves I would’ve had during that time. After we gathered all 24 bags, we headed to the resort. The Sandals resort was beautiful! All the staff were so kind and welcoming! I knew at that moment I wasn’t returning to the United States! The customer service was excellent; the staff took pride in their appearance and work. We all took advantage of the resort’s amenities for the first couple of days. Whether we were eating at the food trunks, enjoying lunch on the private island, or using the jacuzzi or pool, there was something to do at every moment of the day.
While in the Bahamas, we were assigned to work at the elementary school, the prison and treating the employees of the Sandals Resort. Whether it was a child or an adult, the amount of gratitude we received was overwhelming. I felt appreciated being in the Bahamas. I had one patient in particular who came in for a deep cleaning. We talked about his calculus build-up, brushing and flossing, and ways to reduce the staining on his teeth. Once he let me know he understood everything I told him, I went to work! I asked him if he was okay with taking before and after pictures, more to show him the difference. He was cool with it. He was the perfect patient! An hour or so later, we finished. I showed him the before again and let him know that those yellow areas on his teeth weren’t supposed to be there, and as I scrolled to his after, I could hear the excitement in his voice. He said, “Wait, those are my teeth?!” and I said, “Yes, those are your beautiful teeth!” He was so shocked, and he hugged me! At that moment, I knew that being in this profession was where I belonged.
This whole experience has increased my love for informing, treating patients and being able to provide excellent care! I’m looking forward to returning to help the Great Shape! Inc. company in the future. It was even more amazing to be mentored again by two previous graduates. It gave me insight into where I could be with my career in the next few years.
– Kesha, SPC Bahamas Dental Study Abroad Program, January 2025
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