Our Learning Experience in Thailand
From July 5th to August 1st, 2024, LI Jiahuan and I had the privilege of participating in the International Nursing Master’s Program in Asia-Pacific International University, Thailand, hosted by Loma Linda University School of Nursing. This experience was not only professionally enriching but also personally rewarding, leaving us with lasting memories and valuable insights.
Loma Linda University, whose history can be traced back to 1905, has evolved into a world-class academic medical center with a strong commitment to the philosophy of “Make The Man Whole.” The university’s values—compassion, integrity, excellence, teamwork, and wholeness—are the pillars that have underpinned its unique culture. Over the past 18 years, our hospital and Loma Linda have forged a close partnership, collaborating on a wide range of initiatives that help enhance our clinical and academic skills. We are encouraged to go to Loma Linda for short-term clinical observations, long-term clinical training for surgeons, nursing master’s programs, pediatric speech therapy and rehabilitation programs, and NICU fellowship and residency training.
This summer in Thailand, we joined Loma Linda for the final part of a four-year program, whose courses focused on three aspects: ethics, leadership, and healthcare system policies. Throughout a month of intense study, we immersed ourselves in these critical fields, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The diverse and inclusive learning environment provided us with a unique opportunity to engage with nursing peers from various cultural backgrounds, which broadened our horizons on global healthcare practices. What made our experience even more rewarding was the faculty, which was not only knowledgeable but also deeply committed to fostering a collaborative and tolerant learning atmosphere for nursing students.
By the end of the program, we were pleased to have achieved A grades in all our courses—a testament to our dedication and hard work. Beside the academic achievements, we also took pride in building strong connections with our fellow participants, promoting cultural exchange, and representing China’s rich traditions. We believe that our efforts helped create a positive image of professional Chinese nurses on this international platform.
As we reflect on this experience, we are grateful for the opportunity that helped us grow both professionally and personally. The knowledge and skills we gained from this program will undoubtedly enhance our contributions to the healthcare field, and the connections we made with fellow participants will continue to inspire and inform our future practice. We look forward to applying what we’ve learned in this program to future nursing practice in an effort to improve the quality of global healthcare.
Zheng Kun, Cardiology Dept.
