University Study and Service Abroad (USSA) is a non profit organization that develops short-term study abroad experiences for mental health professionals and students to increase global awareness of the mental health field in various cultures across the globe.
Participants will have the opportunity to earn CE credit, serve underprivileged populations, enhance multicultural skills through professional development workshops, and exchange mental health expertise with local professionals.
Programs are complete with a designated local guide, air and ground travel, lodging, and an itinerary detailing humanitarian efforts, professional training, and cultural excursions.
USSA was originally developed by the late Dr. Thana Singarajah who had a passion for mentoring students and professionals to grow spiritually, emotionally, and intellectually. As a Clinical Assistant Professor at Idaho State University, Dr. Thana fulfilled this passion by developing short-term study abroad programs from 2011-2015 as described on our programs page.
These programs encouraged travel, service, and education to cultivate multicultural awareness and inspire continued professional development. It is in his legacy that the USSA Board of Directors continue to fulfill Dr. Thana’s passion of creating opportunities for learning through travel and service of underprivileged populations.
Transport
Roundtrip air travel will be arranged by USSA so the team attending can start and end their journey together.
Ground transportation to all activities specified in the itinerary will be included in program fees. Optional excursions will be available for participants who are interested. Expenses incurred for travel to and from activities not specified in the itinerary will be the responsibility of the participant.
Trip guiding
Each program will have a designated trip guide who will provide an comprehensive orientation including, directions and phone numbers to local crisis and medical resources, currency exchange, and an opportunity to purchase a SIM card.
Trip guides will also assist in communicating in non-English speaking destinations and will ensure smooth transition between activities identified on itinerary.
Food and bed
USSA will arrange lodging for the team to stay together in a safe, mid-range hotel close to shops, restaurants, and local cultural activities. Rooms will be double occupancy. Single occupancies rooms may be available for an additional fee.
Some hotels offer complimentary breakfasts, but otherwise, food expenses are not included in program fees. Lodging amenities will be specified in each syllabus.