Hello! My name is Courtney Beals. I am a rising junior and incoming first-year student in the School of Pharmacy. I have also completed the Conceptual Foundations of Medicine certificate. I am an active member of the pre-health sorority, Rho Psi Eta, and I enjoy serving my local community as a pharmacy technician.

In a few days, I will arrive in Northern Ireland for the Inter-Professional Studies in Health, Rehabilitation, and Education program. We will study the intersectional work of many healthcare professionals and educators in providing comprehensive care for children with disabilities. Additionally, we will explore the policy development history that underlies their practices. I selected this program to gain an understanding of the collaborative role of professionals and develop a greater appreciation for the unique knowledge and skills they offer. Professionally, I aspire to be on a multidisciplinary team, and I am excited to witness how each role is integral in enhancing patient care. Through pre-trip research, I have learned that advocacy has been instrumental in policies and laws equalizing opportunities for persons with disabilities. Observing the product of advocacy through this program will inspire me in my future role as a student pharmacist to advocate for the populations I will serve. I look forward to learning all of this and more within the cultural context of Northern Ireland.

This will be my first experience travelling abroad. I can’t wait to explore Belfast and learn more about the culture. See you there!