Romania Summer Study Abroad 2026: Community Care of Vulnerable Groups in Romania
Babes-Bolyai University in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, located in Transylvania, hosted 12 Master of Social Work (MSW), BA in Social Work students, and one public health student that completed a four-week practicum placement through Rutgers School of Social Work. Led by Associate Professor of Professional Practice and Director, Office of Global Social Work Programs Rebecca Davis, students participating in this study abroad program engaged in a series of orientation meetings and visits to local community social work and social service organizations.
The students provided direct services including music, dance, art, sports, English classes, and various outings. The students spent their days at St. Maria Day Center for Adults with Disabilities, Foundation for Children, Communities, and Families (After School Program), FEBE Elderly Care Home, FEBE Home for Adults with Disabilities, Maltese Kindergarten, Fundatia Estuar (Adults with Mental Health Problems), and Padre Pio (Program for Children).
On weekends, the students had the opportunity to explore Transylvania by traveling to Sighisoara, a UNESCO medieval town believed to be the birthplace of Dracula, the medieval city of Brasov, the Bear Sanctuary, and Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle. Students also explored the more pastoral area of northern Romania called Maramures, known for its wooden churches and one of the Communist Prisons which is now a Museum and Memorial. The group also took time to learn the art of pottery making.
