by Mary Hart
The inaugural Budapest study abroad program for upper level nursing students spent three weeks at Semmelweis University in May 2012. Budapest, the capital of Hungary located along the Danube River, maintains a quaint old world charm with its traditional food, centuries old architecture and welcoming hospitality. Cited as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, it is also one of the largest in the European Union.
Semmelweis University, the oldest medical school in Hungary, is world renown for revolutionizing obstetric care. The course of study offered twelve Junior and Senior nursing students an experiential immersion in nursing practice in Hungary. Students faced the social cultural context of healthcare by participating in multiple specialty-centered lectures, simulations, and experience s and observations at a military hospital. In conversations with hospital nurses, students returned with an appreciation of our state of the art healthcare facilities and the elevated role of baccalaureate degree nursing in the United States.
In addition to drinks at cafes and viewing the many bridges that dot the riverfront, students soaked in thermal mineral baths that had been established since Romans first colonized the area. A sampling of free time also included students exploring World Heritage Sties and the Millennium Underground Railroad, the second oldest in the world. International study abroad programs mesh a contemporary and historic understanding of other cultures that expand the world view for students. Budapest proved to capture this and more.
The program was supported by a generous scholarship donation from University trustee, Jim Naughton.
“It was a great privilege to help sponsor the first nursing school study abroad program," Jim says. "I think international education opportunities like this, help to make our students better nurses and better citizens. I was really struck by the personal growth and increased 'big picture' awareness that the participants experienced through this program. I hope that more students can participate in this program every year. Also I hope that other donors will help make this opportunity possible as it is not a financial possibility for many of our students currently.”
The second study abroad program is scheduled for May 2014.
Mary Hart is the senior associate director of development for the School of Nursing and Newnan Center.
