Jimmy Toussaint

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What position do you hold at CF? What has been your career path so far?

I am the executive director of Colline Foundation. Prior to being the executive director of Colline Foundation I built a school in Haiti during my sophomore year of college in 2008. Ever since the earthquake in 2010, I have dedicated myself to running Colline Foundation's volunteer programs.

Did YOU study abroad? If so, where did you go and what inspired you to go?!

I never got the chance to study abroad because I always traveled back to Haiti to work at the school I built. So, I did teach abroad.

What does the future hold for CF - any new programs to share?

I am very excited about our Haiti International Clinical Apprenticeship Program (HICAP). It is the first time people outside of Colline Foundation were involved in structuring and molding a program we are facilitating. I got to work with some people at Yale University that previously participated in one or two of our past programs. I think HICAP offers a fulfilling and valuable experience to people interested in healthcare at a global level.

What about the future of the industry? How do you think study abroad and international education will change over the next 10 years?

I think, because there is more exposure to international issues, more Americans are interested in learning abroad. Globalization has connected us all. Over the next 10 years, I believe more and more students will travel and study abroad.

Which study abroad destination is most underrated? Conversely, which is most overrated?

I think Haiti is very underrated. There is so much history. ecology and development economics someone can learn by researching in Haiti. I don't know what country is overrated and what may be overrated for me can be an excellent learning experience for someone else. Every program isn't "one size fits all". I do think we are providing a special program in Haiti and we are excited about showing the world that Haiti is the next best location to learn and research.