SC State students serve, learn and grow in Guatemala during spring break

Hands-on medical brigade experience connects traveling Bulldogs with global communities and purpose

 ORANGEBURG, S.C. — South Carolina State University senior Courtney Johnson found herself speaking Spanish with patients she had just met, working to ease their concerns while helping keep a busy clinic moving. What began as a test of her skills became one of the most meaningful moments of her spring break. 

“My favorite skill was communicating in Spanish during the intake portion of triage,” said Johnson, a biology major from Savannah, Georgia. “We were short on interpreters, and I was determined to put my Spanish to the test. Not only for myself but to lighten the load for others around me.

“I was able to be myself and be more culturally aware while making the patients smile. I created lifelong relationships with those I traveled to Guatemala with and with the staff in Guatemala,” Johnson said.

From March 8-14, SC State students traveled to Guatemala, where they worked in underserved communities in the Tecpán and Chimaltenango regions. Through Global Medical Brigades, they assisted in medical and dental clinics by taking vital signs, triaging patients, shadowing licensed providers and supporting care in fast-paced settings.

The experience brought together students from biology, computer science and speech pathology, each finding their own way to contribute while learning what it means to serve.

For Jillian Reese, a freshman biology major from Columbus, Ohio, the trip offered a glimpse into her future.

“This trip allowed me to gain hands-on experience in multiple areas of healthcare while serving an underserved community,” Reese said. “Since I plan to become a dentist, working in the dental section was especially meaningful for me.”

She observed and assisted with procedures including extractions, cleanings and fillings, gaining insight into both patient care and teamwork.

A student-led effort with lasting impact

The brigade was led by Taryn Sparkman, a 2024 and 2025 biology graduate who launched the initiative through the Health Professions Society. She worked alongside chaperones Steven Gethers, international experiences coordinator in the Office of Global Engagement, and I’Ayana Sanders, an EFNEP agent and data specialist with the 1890 Research and Extension program.

“We are truly blessed,” Sparkman said. “Being able to experience public health service on a global scale while bringing students from my alma mater was a gift I will cherish forever.”

Gethers said the impact extended beyond clinical work.

“This Medical Brigade to Guatemala was more than a service trip, it was a reminder of our shared humanity,” he said. “We came to serve, but left deeply impacted by the strength, gratitude, and resilience of the people we met.

“Our students didn’t just provide care; they connected, learned, and grew. Moments like these stay with you and continue to shape who you are long after you return home,” Geathers said.

Sanders commented on the positive impact the trip had on her personally and professionally.

 “It opened my eyes to the impact public health can have on a global level. It also strengthened my compassion, cultural awareness, and ability to adapt in fast-paced environments,” Sanders said. “Working in a setting with limited resources reinforced my passion for public health.”

Learning beyond the classroom

Students described the experience as both eye-opening and affirming.

 Jamezia Sherald, a senior biology major from Georgetown, South Carolina, said seeing limited health care resources firsthand reshaped her perspective.

“It gave me a deeper sense of purpose and motivation to pursue a career in medicine where I can make a meaningful impact,” she said.

Atalia Lee, a junior biology major from Denver, said the trip reinforced her goal of becoming an oncologist while highlighting the importance of equitable care.

“It reminded me that quality care should be accessible to everyone, regardless of where they come from,” Lee said.

For others, the lessons were as much personal as professional.

Damya Mayers, a senior biology major from Elgin, South Carolina, said the experience pushed her beyond her comfort zone. 

“I came back more independent, compassionate and motivated,” she said 

Building cultural awareness and confidence 

Working in unfamiliar environments required adaptability, communication and empathy, skills students said will stay with them. 

Shawnterriah Geddis, a junior biology major from Summerville, South Carolina, said home visits in the San Juan Comalapa community revealed the realities patients face.

“I learned that healthcare is not just about treating patients, but also understanding their environment and daily challenges,” she said.

Camillie Wilkins, a senior biology major from Spartanburg, South Carolina, said the experience strengthened her cultural competence.

“I learned to be more respectful and aware of language barriers, traditions and beliefs that influence how people view medical care,” Wilkins said.

For Jashayla Seawright, a senior biology major from Orangeburg, even a short time abroad carried lasting meaning.

“This medical brigade taught me that even small actions can have big, meaningful impacts on a community,” she said. 

Expanding global opportunities at SC State

The trip reflects a broader effort by the SC State’s Office of Global Engagement to expand international experiences for students. The office has curated a display of artifacts from Guatemala in the International Resource Center in Belcher Hall to inspire others to pursue study abroad and cultural immersion opportunities. The artifacts will be on display through April 30^th.

Dr. Learie B. Luke, director of the Office of Global Engagement, has set an expansive goal. He envisions that 50% of SC State students will study or travel abroad before they graduate. Plans are already underway to explore future brigades, including a potential trip to Ghana.

For the students who traveled to Guatemala, the experience reshaped how they see the world and their place in it.