The CSD department strives to offer a short-term international experience at least once per year as an additional opportunity for self-discovery, personal growth, and learning. Through travel, students can learn about themselves, other cultures, and clinical practices in a different cultural setting.
- Read about our CSD study abroad experience that occured during the 2024 Spring Break.
- Julia Tockstein created a YouTube video
highlighting memorable events from a Graduate international clinical experience to Seoul.
Upcoming CSD study abroad experiences:
Open to: All CSD graduate students in SLP and AUD and CSD undergraduate seniors
Ready to take your clinical skills beyond the classroom, and into the Caribbean?
Join the Illinois State University CSD Program for an unforgettable Winter Break Therapy Abroad experience in Dominica, where and hands-on clinical learning, cultural immersion, and adventure come together. This immersive program 11-day experience offers students a unique opportunity to explore global approaches to communication, healthcare, and inclusive practice while earning valuable clinical hours.
What Makes This Experience Unmatched?
You won’t just observe; you’ll engage, collaborate, and grow as a clinician.
- Gain hands-on clinical experience working alongside local professionals in schools, hospitals, home health settings, and geriatric facilities.
- Participate in speech, language, and hearing screenings while learning about healthcare delivery in another country
- Earn clinical clock hours with ISU CSD Faculty
- Develop cultural humility and intercultural competence through meaningful interactions with community members, healthcare providers, and families
- Learn how communication services are delivered in diverse settings while expanding your clinical perspective
Beyond the Clinic: Experience Two Caribbean Destinations
Professional growth is only part of the journey. This program combines clinical learning with unforgettable cultural experiences across Puerto Rico and Dominica.
- Explore historic Old San Juan and experience Puerto Rico's rich culture and history
- Discover Dominica's lush rainforests, waterfalls, and breathtaking natural beauty
- Snorkel at the world-famous Champagne Reef
- Visit the Kalinago Territory and learn about the island's Indigenous heritage and traditions
- Experience local cuisine, communities, and cultural sites throughout both destinations
- Build lifelong friendships and professional connections with your cohort
Why This Matters for Your Future
Designed specifically for students pursuing speech-language pathology and audiology, this program will help you:
Program Details at a Glance
- Dates: December 31, 2026 – January 10, 2027
- Location: Dominica and Puerto Rico
- Group Size: Up to 25 students
- All-Inclusive Cost: $4,950 (includes flights, housing, meals, activities, and clinical experiences)
- Payment Plans & Fundraising Support Available
Don’t Miss This Opportunity
Step outside your comfort zone. Expand your clinical perspective. Explore communication sciences and disorders in a global context while experiencing the beauty and culture of the Caribbean.
Complete the two steps below to participate in Winter Break 2026/2027:
1. Complete this form to reserve your spot with CSD.
2. Spots are limited, secure your place and start your journey today.
Open to: All CSD undergraduate and graduate students
Ready to take your CSD experience global?
Join the Illinois State University CSD Program for an unforgettable 10-day Therapy Abroad journey across Italy, Slovenia, and Austria (March 5–14, 2027)—where clinical learning, cultural immersion, and international travel come together in one incredible experience.
Learn Beyond the Classroom
This program is designed specifically for undergraduate and graduate students in speech-language pathology and audiology who want to expand their clinical perspective on a global scale. You’ll:
- Visit universities, clinics, and special education programs across three countries
- Explore how different healthcare and education systems support individuals with communication and hearing needs
- Compare international service delivery models, training pathways, and interdisciplinary practices
- Engage in faculty-led discussions and guided reflections that connect real-world experiences to your future career
Build Skills That Set You Apart
Through hands-on learning and immersive experiences, you’ll develop:
- Cultural and linguistic competence in diverse settings
- A deeper understanding of global approaches to communication, disability, and accessibility
- Professional confidence and critical thinking skills
- A broader perspective of your role as a future clinician in a globalized field
Travel. Explore. Experience.
From the canals of Venice to the mountains of Slovenia and the historic streets of Vienna, this trip blends academic learning with unforgettable cultural experiences:
- Walk through iconic cities like Milan, Venice, Ljubljana, Graz, and Vienna
- Experience world-renowned art, architecture, and history
- Reflect on how the environment, culture, and public spaces influence communication and access
- Build lasting friendships with your cohort while exploring Europe
Program Details
- Dates: March 5 – March 14, 2027
- Locations: Italy, Slovenia, Austria
- Group Size 10-40 students
- Cost: $5,500 (program fee; airfare INCLUDED!)
- Includes: Housing, meals, transportation, excursions, and academic/clinical site visits
Why You Should Go
This isn’t just a trip; it’s a career-enhancing, perspective-shifting experience that will help you stand out in graduate school, clinical placements, and beyond.
Step outside your comfort zone. See the world. Become a better clinician.
Complete the two steps below to participate in Spring Break 2027:
1. Complete this form to reserve your spot with CSD
2. Spots are limited, start your journey today!
For more information, contact Dr. Amy Yacucci at ayacucc@ilstu.edu.
