By 布列塔尼Peacock-Wilson, a senior nursing major
Travel has always been an interest of mine, but making a difference has always been a passion of mine. I knew as a freshman in high school that I wanted to be in healthcare, help others, and change lives. I’ve previously given some thought to travel nursing, but I wasn’t sure how traveling and being a nurse could intersect.
Coming to Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College to pursue my bachelor’s degree in nursing has been a journey that has been intentional, 充满目标, 是上帝安排的. When the opportunity to study abroad in Havana, 古巴, 大三就出现了, I immediately knew it was something I needed to be a part of. I went into it not with the mindset of, “What can we do for them? 我们怎样才能拯救他们?” but instead, “What can I learn to bring back to my community?” This experience not only enriched my academic pursuits but also profoundly impacted my personal growth and future aspirations.
古巴’s vibrant culture captivated me from the moment I arrived. The warmth of the people and the rich history challenged my preconceptions and broadened my perspective on community-centered healthcare. Embracing their culture taught me the importance of cultural humility in nursing practice.
The week-long trip fostered unparalleled personal growth. It tested my adaptability and independence, pushing me to navigate new environments and situations with resilience and an open mind. I emerged more self-aware, confident, and ready to embrace life’s challenges. Communicating across language barriers was both challenging and rewarding. It highlighted the importance of community engagement, emphasizing empathy and non-verbal communication—a skill vital for nursing practice.
Cultural shocks were inevitable, but they taught me resilience. Embracing discomfort fueled my growth, reminding me of the importance of stepping outside my comfort zone. This experience ignited a passion for international and public healthcare. I aspire to advocate for equitable healthcare access locally and globally, driven by the lessons learned in 古巴.
I express immense gratitude to my professors, 顾问, 寄宿家庭, and all those whose support made this journey possible. Their mentorship and encouragement shaped my experience. Thank you for allowing me to share my journey. Here’s to embracing lifelong learning and the endless possibilities that come with it.
布列塔尼Peacock-Wilson, CCHT, CCMA, CPhT, will graduate in spring 2024 with her Bachelor of Science in 护理 from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College. Beyond her academic achievements, 布列塔尼是一个忠诚的妻子, 妈妈。, dog-mom, 女儿, friend and an aspiring nurse midwife and lactation consultant. She has demonstrated exceptional leadership as the Image of 护理 Board Director for the Indiana Association of 护理 学生 (IANS) from 2022 to 2024, as well as the National Student Nurse Association (NSNA). 另外, Brittany is actively engaged with professional organizations such as the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) & a member of the Black Maternal Health Taskforce, The Emergency Nurses Association (ENA), and the American Nurses Association/Indiana State Nurses Association (ISNA). At SMWC she held leadership roles within the Student Nurse Association (SNA) at SMWC, serving as President and Secretary.
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