One Love:
Study Abroad in Jamaica
Exploring culture, connection, and identity through the spirit of JA
This page displays my journey abroad throughout the semester. From the preparation of my departure, to my experiences while in Jamaica, to the reflections I carried home with me. This incredible opportunity that the institution of Old Dominion University provided was truly once-in-a-lifetime. It challenged me, broadened my perspective, and provided me with experiences that I know I will carry with me for years to come. I am absolutely thrilled to be able to share pieces of these lessons through my page and through these photos.
Pre-Trip Research Presentation
My learning began before I ever left the United States, through a pre-trip analysis centered on one of Jamaica's most beloved national symbols: the Doctor Bird. This presentation explores its history, cultural significance, and the reasons I chose to focus on it as a way to understand Jamaican history more deeply. While abroad, I continued to track and observe this living symbol, connecting my research to my abroad experience.
Travel Gallery
This gallery highlights some of the most defining moments from my trip. Throughout these photos are places, people, and experiences that helped shape my journey.
During the trip, we were asked to consider the most meaningful parts of each day, our personal "roses". I've marked select photos with a rose symbol to represent some of these moments.
Our first night in Montego Bay. During dinner at Pier One, our guide, Marc King, showed us the best spot for sunset photos.
Taken from the van on our drive to Falmouth. Captures Jamaica's natural beauty- authentic, vibrant, and distinctly green throughout so much of the island.
One of the symbols displayed at the Primary School: The Doctor Bird! :)
Our guide, King, and esteemed Professor, Dr. Campbell with us at sunset. Could not have asked for two better trip leaders.
Continuing our third day spent in Jamaica's capital, we visited the University of the West Indies to hear Dr. Plummer deliver an incredible lecture on the history and culture of Jamaica.
Ending our trip to the capital at Devon's House with a famous ice cream treat.
Our next stop in Ocho Rios: Blue Hole! Almost everyone's rose of the day. This cool blue rainforest experience was one of the most treasured moments of the trip
Taken directly outside Blue Hole. "Lady with the big camera," he called- and I answered
Taken in the Rastafari village, emphasizing their respect for all living creatures and their joy for life. What an honor to share in this spirit.
Our final evening ended at Glistening Waters, a bioluminescent lagoon. This was something I anticipated all week and it became one of the most extraordinary experiences of my life.
Our second day, spent in Falmouth. This was taken as we walked the city's streets, tasting local foods such as rice porridge (the best ever!) and sweet potato pudding.
A special stop along our drive. Our guide brought us to a primary school from childhood and shared memories: eating fresh almonds and sitting by the sea. I split one with my classmate, Cora; a small moment but my rose for the day.
Sun setting on day two and it was just as breathtaking as the first. That evening, we swam at a local spot in Montego Bay as music filled the warm air and mountains glowed in the distance with the fading light. It was unforgettable.
Being silly in the broadcasting room. A moment in Kingston where we were given the incredible opportunity of an insider's tour of CVM News.
Beautiful mural outside the University, once again showcasing Jamaica's creativity, uniqueness, and cultural pride.
Day four in Ocho Rios. Though I was unable to hike the trail itself due to a hip injury, this allowed me to see the most beautiful perspective from over the falls.
Taken on our drive out of Ocho Rios. Captures the bright colors and tributes to Bob Marley that can be seen throughout many regions of Jamaica.
Our sixth day where we were graciously invited to tour with an indigenous Rastafari village. We all helped prepare lunch together, a traditional stew called Ital (my very favorite meal of the trip).
Taken our very last day off a local shore in Montego Bay. We spent the afternoon at the beach, soaking in sun and sea. Total tranquility.
Back in Wakefield at Hampden Estate Rum Distillery, we all filled our names in the guestbook before leaving. Cora signed us off, "ODU Study Abroad". People I'll never forget, an experience I'll carry with me always.
Donation Campaign
Before our trip, each of us collected shoes and athletic balls to bring to Prickly Pole Primary School. This service learning day, our donation day, was meant to be a day for connection; one where we would spend the morning with local children through a creative writing activity before gifting the items we had brought.
Unfortunately, due to a health related incident I had the day before, I was unable to attend this experience. Because of my history with children's ministry and connection to writing, missing this day was one of the hardest parts of the trip. Even still, however, hearing my classmates' details when they returned and seeing their photos allowed me to catch a small glimpse into the impact this day had.
The children wrote about places they dreamed of visiting, such as Blue Hole and Dunn's River, and warmed hearts answering questions like "My hero is my best friend". Their words were so sincere and imaginative, and prompted feelings of humility in us all. Afterward, they ran across the school with excitement as they played with their new toys, filling the building with laughter and joy.
Reflection Essay
My final reflection essay covers my week in Jamaica day by day, giving an account of some of the struggles I faced and some of the most impactful moments I had abroad. It looks at the expectations I had coming into the trip and compares them to my lived experience while in Jamaica. Additionally, it reflects on gratitude and recognition of privileges.