Student Reflections from the Norwich University School of Nursing

During my medical mission trip to Costa Rica with the Norwich University School of Nursing, I had the privilege of providing medical care to Nicaraguan immigrants and the surrounding local community. This experience deeply impacted me as a nursing student.

The trip reinforced the importance of culturally competent care. Working in a foreign environment with patients from diverse backgrounds required me to adapt quickly, recognize the unique healthcare challenges, and tailor my approach to meet their needs. I learned to navigate language barriers, utilize interpreters effectively, and develop a more flexible care style. These skills will be invaluable in my future practice, especially in diverse communities where patients' cultural backgrounds and needs may vary.

This trip also had a profound impact on my nursing education. It allowed me to apply the knowledge and skills I’ve gained in the classroom to real-world situations. Working with a multidisciplinary team, I learned the importance of collaboration and resourcefulness in delivering care in resource-limited settings. I feel better prepared to face the challenges of healthcare in any setting, and this has strengthened my confidence as a future nurse.

The mission of Norwich University School of Nursing to create globally minded nurse leaders was directly fulfilled through this experience. By providing care to a community in need and understanding a global perspective on healthcare, I gained a better understanding of the diverse challenges faced by different populations. This trip not only aligned with the values of our program but also helped me to grow into a more compassionate, informed, and globally aware nurse, qualities that will guide me as I work toward becoming a leader in nursing.

There’s something incredibly rewarding about providing care to others, but what made this experience even more amazing was seeing the smiles on the faces of the people we helped. Each person we assisted brought their own story, and each smile felt like a genuine reflection of relief. It was a reminder of the impact we can have on someone’s life with a simple act of care. It was an unforgettable feeling, one that made every moment of hard work and dedication worth it.

On behalf of the entire student population that attended the trip, we would like to give a huge thank you to Professor Chapman and Professor Dr. Wood for making this trip possible for us and making it such a wonderful experience.