NEW MANUAL AVAILABLE ON INTERNATIONAL STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAM
In an effort to foster understanding between dentists worldwide, the ICD launched the International Student Exchange Program in 1990. In the true spirit of the mission of the ICD, these exchanges have formed bonds between ICD members around the world, American and foreign dental schools, and future dental colleagues. Those who have participated in the program - students, faculty, and ICD members - have felt greatly rewarded by their involvement.
Peruvian exchange student visits Maryland Dental School.
In recent years the Exchanges have been reciprocal with similar numbers from both the US and the foreign dental schools. The positive outcomes of past International Student Exchanges have prompted an initiative to enhance the program and expand participation among US dental schools.
In 2007 thirteen students participated in the program including students from Case Western, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, and Oklahoma. It is anticipated that in 2008 eighteen students will be involved from Alabama, Georgia, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, and North Carolina. Schools interested in participating this year are still encouraged to apply. Past exchange students have visited dental schools throughout South America and Europe, including travel to schools in Mexico, Peru, UK, Ireland, France, Germany, and Denmark.
Maryland exchange students at rural Peruvian health clinic.
Dr. W. Michael Kenney is the chairperson of the current International Student Exchange Committee, which developed a new manual to serve as a primer for the student, faculty member, or ICD Fellow. It is intended to provide guidelines for the organization and implementation of international student exchanges, in joint ventures with dental schools and the USA Section of the International College of Dentists.
In addition to an overview of the program the manual explains how a dental school might implement a student exchange program, and offers advice for the faculty coordinator and selection committee. It also proposes suggested agenda activities, and addresses student and mentor/host responsibilities and financial support. There are five (5) appendices in the back of the manual: Implementation Schedule, a US Institution Letter of Intent, a Foreign Institution Letter of Intent, a US Student Letter of Application, and a USA Section Archival Library Record.
For a copy of this Manual for Program Organization and Implementation, please contact the central office of the USA Section of the International College of Dentists, 51 Monroe Street, Suite 1400, Rockville, MD 20850. Telephone: (301) 251-8861.
