The Boltwood Project is a student run, all-inclusive, service learning project here at UMass that aims build inclusive environments and peer to peer relationships. Volunteers go out into the community to different service sites and spend time with individuals with disabilities. Theses sites range from elementary schools to skilled nursing homes. You also receive 2 university credits for your volunteer work, reflections and attendance of 3 weekend seminars per semester. During the seminars we learn about different topics surrounding disability. There is also the opportunity to apply for a leadership position as a site supervisor in which case you would also enroll in the leadership in service learning course. Continue reading
Author Archives: cbrennick
The Spanish and Health Certificate – Because I wish I had known sooner
As a I prepare to graduate with a dual degree in Communication Disorders and Spanish I could not be more pleased with how well these two distinct majors have complemented each other. My Spanish major has provided me with a route to diversify my studies prior to entering graduate school. For example, in my Communication Disorders studies, we discuss what it means to be culturally competent as a clinician. In my Spanish studies, I am able to further explore this topic of cultural competency within the Spanish speaking world. Moreover, studying abroad for my Spanish major has helped me to further understand and be more aware of the different characteristics in cultures that may not be immediately evident, but are important for a clinician to be aware of. Continue reading
Communication Disorders + Spanish
My name is Christine Brennick, and I am currently a junior here at UMass. I am double majoring in Communication Disorders and Spanish. While these are two completely different fields, they are both related through language. My classes in communication disorders and Spanish are very different and at times I feel as though they are totally separate pursuits. However, I plan to take a few classes that link the two together including Hispanic Linguistics and Spanish Phonetics, two classes that I had to take in English for communication disorders. While these two majors do not complement each other as clearly as some other combinations, I know that pairing the two will be complementary for my career. Continue reading