Nursing Abroad

Stirling, Scotland

I was one of thirteen students that had the once in a lifetime opportunity to study abroad at the University of Stirling, Scotland College of Nursing.  On the two week adventure, we focused on midwifery, alcohol abuse, and the general socialized healthcare system in Scotland.  We were able to visit the NHS- Forth Valley which is a community hospital in Stirling, Scotland.  While visiting, we were able to get a first hand look at the labor and delivery unit, as well as the neonatal intensive care unit and pediatric unit.  We also received a private tour from an attending physician of their after-hours walk-in clinic.  It was astonishing to see the differences between this hospital and the hospitals in the United States.  We also visited several different psychiatric facilities throughout the Stirling area.  

This experience broadened my knowledge of healthcare on a global level.  Studying in a different country where there are different issues encouraged my understanding of cultural competency.  I will forever remember the memories I made while studying at the University of Stirling, Scotland.