AUCON faculty members, Dr. Francine Parker and Ms. Claire Thompson, led a study abroad experience, Nursing Leadership: Healthcare and Culture Abroad, to Edinburgh, from May 7 – 19, 2023.
The customized program was developed congruently with nursing faculty and WorldStrides. The itinerary for the faculty members and 10 students included a mix of cultural, healthcare and nursing educational presentations, as well visits to historical sites.
“Our group was graciously welcomed by the Queens Nursing Institute of Scotland, Edinburgh BioQuarter and the National Health System in the Highlands,” said Parker. “They presented an overview of healthcare in Scotland, along with current challenges followed by discussion among our interested and engaged students.
“The fundamental goals of the study abroad experience included students gaining a global perspective, learning adaptability through exposure to a different way of life, intercultural communication, and critical thinking from navigating the public transportation system to comparing the Scotland health care system to the U.S. This amazing opportunity met and exceeded our goals!
“In addition to the nursing and healthcare focused presentations, visiting must -see sites was a significant highlight of the trip. We explored famous landmarks, including Edinburgh Castle, a historic fortress dominating the skyline that is home to the Crown Jewels and Stone of Destiny. Holyroodhouse Palace, Scotland’s Royal Family Home, was a clear favorite of our group. To see the very rooms where the late Queen entertained world dignitaries, dined, relaxed, and spent so much time with her family was amazing. The Royal Yacht Britannia, a ‘get-away’ luxury yacht where the Royal family spent leisure time, was a sight to behold. Exploring the beautiful, southern end of the world-famous Loch Ness by canoe was extraordinary and a clear highlight of our trip. We were blessed with a picture-perfect weather day, and no one fell in the water! Our delightful guide, Andrew, led us to a beautiful lakeside home with adorable baby sheep running around to the joy of us all.
“Ms. Thompson and I encourage students willing to be wowed by the beauty of another country, who want to develop critical thinking, social and problem-solving skills while exploring cultural and historical sites, to consider the College of Nursing Study Abroad in Edinburgh, Scotland.”
As one student put it, “The Scotland Study Abroad trip was nothing short of amazing! A once-in-a-lifetime experience that was both educational and filled with so many amazing activities to see such a beautiful country – not to mention the incredible food.”
