Leadership & Service in Public Health
Summer '25 Applications Open
The Take-Aways
Real-World Experience
Support public health initiatives alongside a local NGO. Come home with a greater understanding of your own leadership style and societal issues in the Dominican Republic. Be better prepared to take action on local public health issues.
Credentials for Your Future
Topics for your college essays; experience to inform your future career; a Community Profile documenting how you investigated needs, resources, and perspectives during your service; and a record of your service-learning hours.
Life Skills and New Friendship
Return with greater self-confidence, independence, and improved communication skills. Enjoy a broader worldview and diverse friendships from across the U.S.
50
Hours of Service-Learning
3
Weeks of Community Engagement
1
Life-Changing Experience
The Destination
Welcome to Santiago de los Caballeros, the commercial and cultural heart of the Dominican Republic.
Santiago de los Caballeros, or simply Santiago, is affectionately known as Ciudad Corazón—“Heart City.” Tucked between two mountain ranges in the center of the fertile Cibao Valley, Santiago is the second-largest city of the Dominican Republic and boasts the country’s largest hospital—Hospital Metropolitano de Santiago.
Even though it was founded in 1495, Santiago is a modern metropolis, thriving on industry and vibrating with culture. As the arts capital of the country, it houses a world-class collection of paintings, a carnival museum, renowned urban murals, and countless cultural exhibits.
Away from the touristic hotspots, Santiago is a perfect place to experience Dominican day-to-day life. Here you will surround yourself with the contagious happiness of the Santiagueros, the syncopated rhythms of bachata, the national obsession for baseball, and the pride of home cooking inspired by African, Spanish, and Taino flavors.
Cultural Awareness
CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Santiago de los Caballeros.
Sample Activities
Just Imagine All the Fun You’ll Have!
- Soak in Dominican natural beauty on a hike up a stunning green mountain, a swim in a picture-perfect beach, or a boat tour around tropical mangroves.
- Take dream-worthy pictures on the giant swing flying over the sea in Monte Cristi, a spectacular hidden gem of a town on the northern coast.
- Go on an exciting hike through the vibrant eco-tourism center of Jarabacoa. Then, take a dip in the river with your friends.
- Visit the Mirabal Sisters Museum, which pays homage to fearless national heroines who courageously opposed Trujillo's regime.
- Slice, dice, and savor in a cooking class at your homestay. Take the recipe home to share a delicious Dominican dish with friends or family.
Please note activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.
Finding Inspiration Everywhere
Hospitals Tours CIEE Public Health program had the opportunity to tour one public and private hospital to understand the fundamental differences. Hospital Regional Jose Maria Cabral y Baez was the... keep reading
Overnight Adventure: Days to Remember
Friday: A Thrilling Start to Our Overnight Trip The excitement was palpable as we embarked on our much-anticipated overnight trip. We began by gathering all the students from their homestays... keep reading
A Weekend of Learning, Bonding, and Sustainability: From Cassava to Carnival
Saturday: Cassava Factory and Glamping On Saturday morning, we woke up earlier than usual, eager for our adventure. We hopped on the bus and headed to Mao for a unique... keep reading
Eligibility
- Participants must be 14 years old and above.
- Program open to all current high school students: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors.
- For scholarship eligibility requirements, please check our scholarship page.
For more information, refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$25
Program scholarships and tuition include iNext Travel Insurance, but do not cover the cost of flights. Find additional details about what’s included with your tuition.
More questions? Find answers, get application support, sign up for virtual presentations or contact us!
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Summer Session I 2025 3 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $4,950 | |
| Program Summer Session II 2025 3 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $4,950 |
Ready to change your life?
What's Included
Interactive Classes
Housing
3 Meals/Day
(Dietary Needs Accommodated)
All Ground Transportation
(Once In-country)
Optional Flight Chaperone
(Flight Cost Not Included)
Pre-departure Advice and Orientation
Access to WIFI
(No international data plan or SIM card included)
All Cultural Activities and Excursions
Comprehensive Medical and Travel Protection
24/7 Emergency On-site Support
Our Staff
Lucía Agüero
Center Director
Lucía Agüero is a passionate educator and lifelong learner with over fifteen years of professional experience.
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