Curriculum
Program Overview
The Affinity Access International (AAI) Internship Program is designed to provide undergraduates with an unparalleled opportunity to gain hands-on experience in speech therapy, outreach, and community service.
Through a combination of practical work, collaboration with professionals and exposure to unique challenges in underserved communities, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of speech-language pathology within an international and cross-cultural context.
Program Outcome
By the end of the internship, students will have gained substantial clinical experience, developed skills in community outreach, and gained an understanding of speech therapy in an international context. They will also contribute to meaningful projects that positively impact the lives of individuals in underserved communities.
Duration: 3-5 weeks
Undergraduate Students
Eligibility and Requirements
- Undergraduate students must be accompanied by an SLP or a supervising professor who will travel with them to Ghana. No unaccompanied undergraduate students will be accepted.
- Applicants must be at least a junior in college, able to commit to a minimum of three weeks in Ghana, and pass all necessary background checks and clearances.
- Interns must complete a pre-trip course covering cultural preparedness and child protection training, ensuring they are well-prepared for the experience.
- Interns must be able to fully fund their internship, whether through private means or fundraising. The program fee includes airfare, lodging, meals, transportation, travel insurance, Wi-Fi, laundry services, and a donation to AAI programming.
- Interns must sign and adhere to the Affinity Access International Code of Conduct for the duration of their internship, ensuring they maintain high ethical standards and respect cultural sensitivities.
Program Fees and Inclusions
Trip Cost
- Round-trip flights to and from Ghana.
- Western-style accommodations with 24/7 security.
- Two meals provided daily.
- All transportation related to intern activities.
- Comprehensive travel insurance coverage.
- Internet access at lodging and clinics.
- Laundry services provided.
- Contribution to AAI programming.
- All application and processing fees.
Practical Experience and Daily Tasks Observation
Based on experience and level of education, daily tasks may include:
- Observation of evaluations
- Assisting in the creation and implementation of treatment plans
- Community Outreach and Education
- Familiarization with reporting tools such as Fusion Web Clinic
- Interns will observe and learn from evaluations conducted by experienced Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), gaining insight into assessment techniques and diagnostic processes.
- Assisting in day-to-day program needs
Side Attractions
- On the weekends, interns will have the opportunity to experience the best of Ghana – the beautiful landscape, great cuisine, rich cultural experiences, night life and more.
Curriculum Structure
- Orientation and Introduction (Week 1)
- Program Introduction
- Overview of AAI’s mission, vision, and objectives.
- Introduction to Ghanaian culture, healthcare system, and community dynamics.
- Clinical and Ethical Guidelines
- Understanding the ethical considerations in providing therapy across cultures.
- Overview of clinical practices and expectations.
- Clinical Training and Observation (Weeks 2)
- Shadowing a Speech-Language Pathologist
- Observe therapy sessions conducted by a Ghanaian Speech-Language Pathologist.
- Introduction to common speech and language disorders in the local context.
- Basic Therapy Techniques
- Training in basic speech therapy techniques.
- Understanding culturally sensitive approaches in therapy.
- Patient Interaction and Communication
- Techniques for effective communication with patients and families.
- Understanding patient needs and tailoring therapy accordingly.
- Outreach and Community Engagement (Weeks 3-4)
- Community Needs Assessment
- Conduct surveys and assessments to identify community needs.
- Collaborate with local stakeholders to understand gaps in service provision.
- Outreach Initiative Planning
- Develop and plan outreach initiatives based on community needs.
- Design educational materials and workshops for caregivers and families.
- Execution of Outreach Initiatives
- Implement outreach programs in local communities.
- Provide basic speech therapy services in underserved areas.
- Program Conclusion (Week 5)
- Final Assessments
- Complete evaluations and assessments of skills gained.
- Submission of all project reports and logs.
- Certification and Farewell
- Awarding of completion certificates.
- Final remarks and celebration of achievements.
Graduate Student Fellowship
Program Description
Affinity Access International (AAI) is proud to offer a state-of-the-art Clinical Fellowship program designed for graduates who are eager to deepen their expertise and broaden their professional horizons. This unique program not only provides valuable hands-on experience but also allows AAI to extend vital services to underserved communities in Ghana.
Our Clinical Fellowship program offers a comprehensive blend of outreach initiatives and private clinical settings, where Fellows will collaborate with local Ghanaian Speech-Language Pathologists and receive supervision and mentorship from an ASHA-certified SLP.
Program Outcome
By the end of the program, students will gain advanced clinical skills, leadership experience, and a global perspective on speech-language pathology. By working in diverse settings, they will be equipped to address challenges in underserved communities while contributing to the sustainability of AAI’s initiatives.
Eligibility and Requirements
- Applicants must be graduates of an ASHA-accredited Speech-Language Pathology program.
- Fellows must commit to a minimum of ten months in Ghana, fully immersing them in the clinical and community work of AAI.
- All applicants must pass comprehensive background checks and clearances to ensure the safety and well-being of the communities served.
- Prior to departure, Fellows must complete a course covering cultural preparedness and child protection, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to navigate their new environment responsibly.
- Fellows are required to sign and adhere to the Affinity Access International Code of Conduct, committing to uphold the highest ethical standards and cultural sensitivities throughout their fellowship.
- Fellows must be able to fully or partially fund their fellowship, either through personal means or fundraising efforts. AAI provides support in exploring partial funding options; interested candidates are encouraged to contact us at info@affinityaccessinternational.org for more details.
Fellow Duties
- Conduct thorough assessments of patients to diagnose speech and language disorders, working closely with local clinicians to adapt evaluation techniques to the Ghanaian context.
- Develop and execute individualized treatment plans, incorporating culturally relevant practices and materials to optimize patient outcomes.
- Engage in community-based initiatives to raise awareness about speech and language disorders and promote AAI’s services, contributing to broader public health goals.
- Gain proficiency in using clinical reporting tools like Fusion, ensuring accurate documentation and efficient communication within the multidisciplinary team.
- Receive structured supervision and mentorship from an ASHA-certified SLP, fulfilling all requirements necessary to complete your Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY).
- Assist with the operational aspects of AAI’s programs, including administrative duties, event coordination, and support for ongoing clinical initiatives.
- Participate in cultural immersion activities designed to enhance your understanding of the local environment and customs, fostering a deeper connection with the communities you serve.
Program Fees and Inclusions
Trip Cost
- Your round-trip airfare to and from Ghana is covered, ensuring a smooth start and end to your fellowship experience.
- Stay in comfortable accommodations with around-the-clock security, providing a safe and secure environment throughout your fellowship.
- Enjoy two nutritious meals per day, catering to your dietary needs while reflecting the local cuisine.
- We provide transportation to and from all Clinical Fellowship-related activities, ensuring timely and reliable travel between your lodging and various sites.
- Comprehensive travel insurance is included, offering you peace of mind during your stay.
- Stay connected with Wi-Fi available at both your lodging and the clinic, allowing you to maintain communication and access necessary resources.
- Laundry services are included to ensure you are always well-prepared and comfortable during your fellowship.
- A portion of your program fees supports AAI programming, contributing to the ongoing mission of providing speech and language services to those in need.
- All administrative costs, including processing and application fees are included in the program, simplifying your participation.
- Participate in a cultural immersion experience, enhancing your understanding of local traditions, history, and customs, and deepening your connection to the communities you serve.
Coordinate Your CFY Dates
Affinity Access International offers flexible dates for the 2025 Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY) to accommodate the increasing demand for CF positions.
Please indicate your preferred dates of availability on your application form. If you have specific timing needs or require more information, feel free to contact us at info@affinityaccessinternational.org. We are committed to working with you to find the best schedule that fits your professional goals and personal circumstances.
This inclusive package is designed to ensure that you can focus on your fellowship experience without worrying about logistical details, allowing you to fully engage in your professional development and service work.
Contact Information: For more information or to apply, please email: info@affinityaccessinternational.org
Professional Development Programme
Program Overview
Affinity Access International is dedicated to fostering growth and excellence in the fields of speech and language therapy, as well as special education.
Our Professional Development Program is designed to equip practitioners, educators, and specialists with the advanced skills, knowledge, and tools they need to make a significant impact in their communities.
Program Outcome
By the end of the program, volunteers will gain enhanced expertise, a deeper understanding of global health disparities, and a heightened ability to provide specialized care in resource-limited settings. By directly contributing to the training of local professionals, volunteers will also foster sustainable change, empowering communities to continue benefiting from improved services long after the program ends.
Additionally, volunteers will strengthen their cross-cultural communication skills, and develop a broader perspective on the challenges and opportunities in global healthcare and education.
Eligibility and Requirements
- Hold nationally recognized accreditation/certification in your professional field
- Provide 2 references from previous work or volunteer experiences
- Be willing to commit to a minimum of 10 days in Ghana
- Pass police checks and clearances
- Complete a pre-trip course that includes cultural preparedness and child protection training
- Sign and adhere to Affinity Access Code of Conduct for the duration of your trip
Trip Cost
While volunteers would typically be expected to cover the full costs of their trip, AAI is willing to negotiate financial options with long term volunteers (those who stay for 3 MONTH period or more).
If you require financial assistance, please include that on your application form, or email info@affinityaccessinternational.org
- Airfare
- Western style lodging with 24/7 security
- 3 Meals a day
- Transportation to and from volunteer related activities
- Travel insurance
- Wifi (at lodging and clinic)
- Laundry
- A donation to AAI programming
- Processing and application fees
- Cultural integration trip
Upcoming 2025 trip
For the following trips, the first date is the date you will arrive in Ghana. The last date is the date you would fly out of Ghana. For planning purposes, you will be leaving the day before the first date, and returning the day after the last date.
Example, for a trip scheduled to start on January 1, 2025, you would be flying from John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, USA on December 31st and arriving in Accra, Ghana on the Ist January depending on your flight time .
Affinity Access International has several pre-set dates for internship trips in the coming year. They are:
TBD
If approval is given, a $100 non-refundable deposit must be made and a background check passed. Once that is done, you will need $2000 in your fundraising account page before we can book your flights. The balance of $3000 will be due 6 weeks before you leave. (Deadline for this trip is Feb 17, 2024)
TBD
If approval is given, a $100 non-refundable deposit must be made and a background check passed. Once that is done, you will need $2000 in your fundraising account page before we can book your flights. The balance of $3000 will be due May 31.. (Deadline for this trip is March 14, 2024)
TBD
If approval is given, a $100 non-refundable deposit must be made and a background check passed. We then will need $2200 (or more) raised/paid, so we can book your flights. The later we book the flights, the higher the flight costs. (You pay difference above $2200). The balance of $3100 will be due by the end of June. (Deadline for this trip is March 31, 2024)
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