Social Work Abroad Program (SWAP) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization committed to providing international learning opportunities for US-based social work students.
5 features that set SWAP programs apart from others:
1. Address local needs through diverse internships
SWAP works in collaboration with La UNA (Universidad Nacional Costa Rica) to identify enriched, supported, and intercultural internship opportunities which are meaningful for participants and address needs of the local community. Sustained relationships with placement sites allow participants to contribute to on-going projects.
2. Receive in-country supervision and support from US-based social workers
As part of your internship experience in Costa Rica, US-based social workers will be on site to support your experience, organizing supervised group seminars and focused learning discussions.
3. Join a program designed for social workers by social workers
Professional social workers with extensive experience traveling and living abroad screen host families and internship sites to ensure quality programming and effective learning environments for participants.
4. Advance international social work with research opportunities
Take advantage of opportunities to participate in research studies and focus groups to support and advance international social work. Voice your thoughts and share your experiences to substantiate future opportunities abroad!
5. Transform yourself personally and professionally
Transform yourself through meaningful exchanges involving the SWAP-ing of knowledge, culture, and community with your host families, placement supervisors, and in-country supporters. Travel with SWAP this summer because "certainly travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living" - Mariam Beard