Syracuse UniversityScholar Spotlight

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    Academic excellence is central to Syracuse University's purpose, and is highlighted by the many students who regularly showcase the University's scholarly tradition. Each week, we profile one of these students to provide a glimpse into the stories and achievements that make our students special. 
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    Elyse Davis ’16

    Elyse Davis, a senior in the David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics, has expanded her Syracuse University experience well beyond the classroom. In fact, she just spent part of this spring semester volunteering in Kenya with the Global Autism Project, a non-governmental organization (NGO) she’s worked with consistently throughout her undergraduate career. Davis is a double major in child and family studies and psychology. She’s pursuing a graduate degree this fall, with the ultimate intent of continuing her advocacy work.

    Tell us more about the Global Autism Project and the work you do there.

    The Global Autism Project is an NGO based out of Brooklyn that is dedicated to providing local and sustainable services to international partnerships. The overall goal is to establish centers of excellence around the world, using evidence-based practices to treat those with autism; where, unfortunately, there are currently no services. The Global Autism Project has strong partnerships with centers and schools in Indonesia, India, Kenya and the Dominican Republic, with many more in the works. I have traveled as a volunteer to partner sites in India, the Dominican Republic and the most recent being Kenya. GAP has consistent weekly supervision and communication with the partnerships, and different countries host small groups of professionals in the field a few times a year for two-week trips. During these trips, we do trainings and workshops in evidence-based practices for the staff, therapists, parents and community. Our overall goal is working with these passionate professionals in these countries to build resources in their own country so they eventually won’t need our help. I have also fundraised over $10,000 for the organization by talking to people about my experiences, the mission of the organization and holding events.

    What sparked your interest in this topic?

    I have always loved to learn, travel and help to make the world a better place however I can. I have such an interest in and passion for working with individuals with autism. It’s amazing that all of my passions have been able to come together.

    What was your experience like in Kenya? What was the purpose of the trip, and what was your specific role?

    I learned so much about the culture, and about what autism look like in Kenya, in terms of how people view it, the resources available and what their specific needs are. They have so much to offer in teaching us. The main goal isn’t to go in and be “saviors,” but to create a network of professionals around the world that can work together and learn from each other. I will definitely take what I have learned from the centers I have worked with around the world and bring it to my own practice here in America.

    How did you decide on SU? What have your experiences been like with your academic program?

    My cousin went here and loved it so much, so when I was accepted I immediately knew that I would come here. I have loved Falk so much. It’s a small, intimate community within a huge campus. My advisor, Dr. MacDonald, has helped me pursue my dreams since orientation freshman year, and all of my professors have been so knowledgeable and helpful.

    After you receive your graduate degree, what’s next?

    I am attending Teachers College at Columbia University in the fall to start a master’s of arts in teaching in applied behavior analysis. My ultimate goal is to become a board certified behavior analyst, writing and implementing behavior plans for children with autism and those with behavioral difficulties. I hope to have my own practice with my own clients, and be able to help them and their families in every aspect of their lives, whether it’s at home, at school or with their other interests. Eventually I plan on getting my Ph.D. to contribute to research expanding the knowledge we have in the field.

    Outside academics, what do you enjoy doing?

    I love to travel, hang out with my friends, spend time with my family and be outdoors. Really, any new adventure is great!

    Story by Austin Galovski, work-study student in the Office of News Services