Short-Term Programs

In the process of working to advance developing communities globally, Clarkson's Engineers for International Sustainability promotes the training and development of globally-aware and internationally-responsible engineers, students, and professionals. Members benefit from the international exchange and experience gained in engineering design, public health, business management, and philanthropy. Our Engineers Without Borders Chapter partners with communities in the developing world to improve areas such as sanitation, energy, and education. Our Engineers for a Sustainable World Chapter focuses on technology innovation and sustainability projects both locally and internationally. Our current project partners with Legal and Charitable Aid Uganda to improve access to safe drinking water in the region of Kinyamaseke, near Queen Elizabeth National Park. 

Clarkson University’s Doctors Without Borders offers an incredible opportunity for students to gain medical experience in a developing country. Every year we select a group of bright students to go abroad and work in clinics for two weeks usually in late May to early June. Locations that we have traveled to in the past include Antigua, Guatemala; San Jose, Costa Rica; Cuzco, Peru; and Quito, Ecuador. Students work alongside nurses and physicians. This provides a great opportunity for students to figure out which direction in the medical field they would like to take. Before departure to one of these countries, students are trained in taking patient vitals and refreshed on elementary Spanish skills. Throughout the year, we do a lot of fundraising to exponentially lower the cost of the trip. 

The purpose of CU SWOB shall be to serve as an official organization for the students of the Clarkson University Physician Assistant Program, to promote clinical excellence and community service, to promote the physician assistant as a member of the health care delivery team, and to help underserved communities by giving of its time and service. Additionally, the purpose of the student society is to coordinate funding to purchase medical and other supplies for, and send students to our annual mission trip. 

This course (UNIV 349) and study tour works in collaboration with Education First and an NGO in Angostura, Dominican Republic to apply technical expertise from faculty and students at Clarkson to solve local problems in a rural upland community.  Our task is to respond to the needs analysis provided by the NGO to improve local developmental initiatives. In 2015, we focused on cook stove technology and explored a community–based micro-hydroelectric power system. In 2017, we will be developing a marketing campaign, web-pages, and data management system to support the community’s ecotourism initiative, as well as troubleshooting the computer systems and information technology infrastructure in a local school. 

Working side by side the locals, you will gain insight into the challenges they face and build lasting solutions related to environmental sustainability to help empower the community. You will live in the communities you serve – celebrating customs and forming lasting connections with locals. Your bilingual Field Director deepens your connection to the land, people and culture. With local perspective on community challenges and skilled training in service leadership, they will provide insight and global context.