Jamaica-Bound: Experiencing the Jamaica Field Service Project

Several students from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College have participated in the Jamaica Field Service Project, directed by Eric Wills, over the past couple of summers. This summer is no exception. Sherry Bube, music therapy junior, and Laura Kempton, music therapy senior, both applied and were accepted to participate in this unique experience. SMWC faculty member Sharon Boyle, Associate Professor of Music Therapy and Coordinator of the Undergraduate Music Therapy Program, has been selected to participate in the program this summer as a music therapy supervisor. Two music therapy supervisors (Tracy Wanamaker from SUNY-Potsdam will be working alongside Boyle) and approximately 16 music therapy students from all over the country, representing numerous music therapy programs, are on their way to Jamaica today to work as volunteers in an infirmary, homeless shelter, and school (School of Hope) in the Portland Parish, Jamaica. In addition, music educators and music education students and other volunteers will also participate in the June experience. 

Boyle will journal about her experience as a music therapy supervisor over the next ten days. Please check back to learn about her JAFSP experience and also see pictures of this beautiful, rural part of Jamaica.