Students Experience International Social Work Firsthand Through Alternative Spring Break Program

Thirteen social work undergraduate and graduate students spent their 2026 Spring Break experiencing international social work in the East Caribbean. For more than a decade, the College of Social Work has offered an Alternative Spring Program that introduces social work students through collaborations with organizations in Grenada, West Indies.

Faculty members Vicky Verano and Dr. Carol Edwards accompanied them on the trip, which allowed the students to collaborate with several local organizations for hands-on community projects. Two students who attended, Beatrice Rene and Connor Davis, shared their experiences.

Beatrice René, MSW Student

Over the course of the week, I was fully immersed in the vibrant culture and community of St. George’s, Grenada, where we partnered with organizations supporting elderly individuals, trauma-impacted youth and other vulnerable populations.

This experience deepened my understanding of global social work and reaffirmed my passion for the field. I witnessed firsthand that service cannot simply be taught; it is rooted in genuine passion and commitment. Many of the organizations we worked alongside were built by individuals creating meaningful impact with limited resources, driven by dedication to their communities.

Working closely with the president and vice president of the Grenada Association of Professional Social Workers was a powerful reminder that lasting change often begins with a few dedicated individuals. Their leadership and involvement across multiple initiatives highlighted the association's critical role in advancing social work and supporting communities throughout Grenada.

This experience challenged me to think more critically about social services on a global scale. Whether in the United States or Grenada, social services are often underprioritized, highlighting the need for continued advocacy and growth. I leave this experience inspired and excited to continue exploring all avenues of social work, both nationally and internationally.

Connor Davis, BSW Student

I will forever treasure this experience and look back on it as I move forward in life. I had the honor of gaining field experience and learning the importance of international social work. I also had time to hone the skills I will need as a future social worker.

During our time in Grenada, we performed community work at the New Life Organization, a trade school that serves as an alternative to higher education; the Mt. Gay Psychiatric Facility; the Richmond Home for the elderly; and SMILES, an organization for displaced and unhoused young women.

On our last day, we attended a luncheon with the Grenada Association of Professional Social Workers Inc. (GAPSW). Sponsored by the FSU College of Social Work, this event gave us the chance to collaborate with local social workers.

This trip has not only provided me with new experiences but will also shape those I have in the future, allowing me to grow my values of empathy, justice and love for all. I am so grateful to have heard from and worked directly with the strong women who lead social work in Grenada, especially Ann Greaves. I am glad I was able to strengthen myself and impact the lives of others.

I will forever continue to share the message of “harambee.” This is a Swahili word used in Kenya, meaning "to pull together." This is what we must carry into the future: to pull together and be unbreakable, helping to heal and love the world more each day.