An internship abroad provided invaluable experiential learning experience for this Honors student

Arya Kalathil sitting in a restaurant in Dublin Ireland whileArya Kalathil , a senior in the Honors College double majoring in psychology and sociology in the College of Humanities and Sciences, spent this past summer abroad in Dublin, Ireland. While there, Arya, worked in a recovery treatment facility and gained invaluable hands-on learning experience. 

What did you do over the summer? 

I spent my summer in a clinical fieldwork internship abroad in Dublin, Ireland, where I served at Coolmine Lodge, an addiction recovery treatment residential facility. I facilitated group sessions and taught workshops on topics such as behavior interventions, relapse prevention, orientation, quit smoking seminars, and mindfulness. I was trained on the methods of community reinforcement approach family therapy, reshaping cognitive behavioral patterns, dynamics of addiction and client case conceptualization. 

What did you gain from this experience? 

I learned a lot about the differences in addiction treatment models between the U.S. and Ireland, as well as adapting to Irish communication styles and norms while getting to know the clients, which increased my cultural intelligence and competency. I also gained professional clinical environment skills, and had a chance to test my empathy, crisis counseling and problem-solving skills.

How do you feel Honors helped you while pursuing this opportunity?

Honors has paved the path for me to lead wellbeing programs, such as Wind Down Wednesday and Student Wellbeing Team, which allowed me to take these skills with me to Ireland and spread it amongst the clients at the treatment center. 

What advice do you have for younger students? 

I highly recommend doing an internship/work experience abroad in lieu of study abroad if you are a hands-on experiential learner. Take the initiative to go to Study Abroad fairs or meet your advisors and discuss your options ahead of time so you can plan accordingly. Explore living independently and developing your professional skills in this way!