SLU PT Student Grows Clinical Skills and Cultural Understanding in Belize

Service Trip Spotlight - Hillside Health Care International
by Tessa Fate (DPT Class of 2018)

The Cheryl Cavallo scholarship allowed me the opportunity to complete an amazing four week clinical rotation in Belize, treating a diverse and underserved patient population and learning about the public health concerns that this country faces. I grew so much in my cultural understanding of the country as well as in my development as a physical therapist. 

Tessa Fate and Natalie Lynch presenting to other students during their clinical rotation  

I’m so grateful for this unique experience and this scholarship that made it possible in the first place, and I wish the same growth and opportunity for other students.

Cavallo Scholarship Awardees Tessa Fate & Albert Marban

There are two ways to help support the Cheryl L. Cavallo Memorial Scholarship Fund. You may participate in the Annual Hustle for Your Health 5K each year or donate directly to the fund. The Annual Hustle for Your Health 5K is in memory of Cheryl Cavallo, a long time faculty member in the Program in Physical Therapy who lost her courageous battle to cancer in 2013. She served as the faculty mentor for the Program in Physical Therapy Student Council for 22 years and tirelessly coordinated this event for 11 years. She lived the Jesuit mission everyday by giving back to those less fortunate. All proceeds from the memorial fundraiser will benefit the Cheryl Cavallo Memorial Scholarship to help defray travel costs for students wishing to pursue health care related domestic or international mission trips. For more information, or if you are interested in sponsoring the event, contact Michelle Cohen at mcohen17@slu.edu.

Cheryl L. Cavallo, PT, Ph.D.

This is one of a series of posts by the Saint Louis University Program in Physical Therapy students who have utilized the Cheryl L. Cavallo Memorial Scholarship to finance their service trips. Service is an integral part of the Saint Louis University experience. SLU is currently #4 on Washington Monthly’s list of universities who participate most in community service. To learn more about service at SLU, visit the Center for Service and Community Engagement website at www.slu.edu/service.