It has now been about a month since my return from Belfast, and I’ve found myself reflecting on what was such a meaningful global experience. The Social Roots of Medical Innovation program was a unique opportunity both academically and culturally. Before this program, I knew very little about the social contexts that shaped trauma care…
Category: Medical Innovations
Goodbye Belfast!
It has been just two weeks since we left Belfast, but it feels like much longer. The Social Roots of Medical Innovation program was truly one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. Belfast was a city completely unknown to me, and this program was not at all what I expected, in the best way…
Beyond Belfast
On the final day of the two-week program Social Roots of Medical Innovation, we visited the Antrim Coast and Giant’s Causeway. We took in the beautiful sights, the expanse of fields and contrast between the greenery and cliffs by the clear water, the breeze against the warmth of the sun, the sounds of sheep and…
Farewell to Belfast
A full week has passed since I left Northern Ireland for the States. The Social Roots of Medical Innovation – Frederick Firsts Program has been one of the most meaningful and well-rounded experiences of my life. I have learned so much culturally, socially, academically, and internally. The experience focused on community care and its importance…
Renee in Belfast: Bye, Pittsburgh!
Hello! My name is Renee Arlotti, and I am preparing to enter my final semester at Pitt. I am an FHC Psychology major completing minors in Spanish and Applied Developmental Psychology, as well as a certificate in Public & Professional Writing. I currently work at a psychiatric hospital, and my future plans include getting a…
Narratives in Belfast
Throughout the week in Belfast, we explored different narratives of the history of Belfast and Northern Ireland through guided tours, museum visits, and guest talks. Through these experiences, I learned different perspectives and powerful stories about The Troubles, a 30 year sectarian conflict. By simply listening, watching, and reflecting within the physical landscape and environment…
Reflecting on Belfast
Sitting in my room back at home, I find myself reflecting back on my time in Belfast. It doesn’t feel real that I was just there less than a week ago, and yet somehow it feels like it changed something in me. I’ll be honest: I didn’t fully know what to expect going into this…
Getting My Bearings in Belfast
I thought I was definitely prepared. Same language, and similar enough culture, how different could it be? The first thing that caught me off guard was the accents and unique vocabulary. Technically everyone was speaking English, but they had their own vocabulary and rhythm entirely. Words like “wee” and “youse”, were woven into every sentence,…
Hello from Belfast!
Despite a missed flight and long travel days, I finally made it to Belfast, Northern Ireland! I’m Eileen and I’m a first-year student majoring in rehabilitation science on the pre-occupational therapy track. I’m participating in the Social Roots of Medical Innovation Maymester pilot program partnered with Queen’s University Belfast (shown below). I chose this location…
A Wee Culture Shock in Belfast
Before visiting Belfast, I assumed the transition would be easy. Same language, broadly similar culture, I wasn’t expecting much of an adjustment. But it didn’t take long to realize I was wrong. The moment that made it real was stepping off the pavement and instinctively looking the wrong way before crossing the road. Beyond the…