Juliana Medei, Plus3 United Kingdom, Summer 2026
Studying abroad in the United Kingdom had a significant impact on both my personal and professional goals. As an incoming nursing student, I chose this program because I wanted to learn about healthcare in another country. While I expected to gain knowledge about the UK healthcare system, I did not expect the experience to broaden my perspective on nursing and strengthen my passion for a career in healthcare.
One of the most valuable parts of the trip was learning about the National Health Service (NHS). Throughout our lectures and site visits, I learned how healthcare is provided to residents across the United Kingdom. Seeing a healthcare system that operates differently from the one in the United States helped me understand the importance of accessibility and public health. It
encouraged me to think about healthcare from a broader perspective and consider how different systems work to meet the needs of their populations.
I was also particularly interested in learning about midwifery in the UK. During one of our lectures, we learned that many midwives are able to practice independently and play a major role in supporting women throughout pregnancy and childbirth. Their emphasis on patient-centered care and empowering women during the birth process showed me the importance of building strong relationships with patients and advocating for their needs.
Another experience that influenced my future goals was learning about public health. We attended lectures that discussed social determinants of health, health equity, and efforts to improve community health outcomes. These topics helped me recognize that healthcare extends far beyond hospitals and clinics. Factors such as education, income, housing, and access to resources can have a major impact on a person’s health. As a future nurse, I hope to consider these factors when caring for patients and promoting overall well-being.
The mental health lecture was another memorable part of the program. Hearing personal stories and learning about mental health challenges reminded me of the importance of compassion and understanding in healthcare. It reinforced the idea that caring for patients involves supporting both their physical and mental health needs.
Beyond healthcare, studying abroad helped me grow personally. Navigating a new country, adapting to unfamiliar situations, and stepping outside of my comfort zone increased my confidence and independence. These are skills that will be valuable not only in my education but also throughout my future nursing career.
Overall, this experience confirmed that nursing is the right path for me. It strengthened my desire to work in healthcare and showed me the value of learning from different perspectives and healthcare systems. As I begin my nursing education at the University of Pittsburgh, I will carry the lessons I learned in the United Kingdom with me and use them to become a more knowledgeable, compassionate, and well-rounded nurse.
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