BSc Nursing student Joseph Aslam travelled to Pittsburgh, USA and Peru as part of BCU’s Go Abroad programmes. Joseph was able to take advantage of two international opportunities while studying to be a Nurse at BCU.
'I lived at home and not in halls because of financial reasons, and I was worried I wouldn't get the best University experiences this way. However, through HELS Go Abroad, I have had the best experience one could hope for.
First stop, Pittsburgh
In my second year, I took a trip to Pittsburgh, USA, with fellow nursing students to learn more about the American healthcare system and health disparities across the US.
We participated in cadaver dissections for anatomy and physiology, and met with various faculty members to discuss life as a student in Pittsburgh. We attended lectures on Pharmacology, Anatomy, Physiology, and Epidemiology, which were invaluable to me as a second-year student. Our schedule also included campus and city tours, as well as cultural experiences. Highlights included attending an American football game with the Pittsburgh Panthers, enjoying skyline views from the Duquesne Incline, a riverboat cruise, and a film festival.
The networking opportunities were also crucial, providing a well-rounded perspective on global health compared to the UK system. This trip significantly boosted my self-confidence, a key trait for nurses who must be kind, compassionate, and resilient.
Pittsburgh provided me with global health knowledge about the determinants of health from a completely different perspective.
On my return, a fellow Nursing student and I visited New York for the weekend, which was breathtaking!
I had a whale of a time and made life-long friends, of whom I'm still in contact with on a daily basis nearly two years later.
Eye-opening experiences in Peru
In my third year, I travelled to Peru with MEDLIFE, an incredible non-profit organisation that provides equal access to healthcare, education, and community development for low-income families. I was with a group of students from different courses who united for a common cause on this trip.
The experience was profoundly eye-opening. I witnessed poverty firsthand and participated in mobile health clinics, involving general practice, dentistry, pharmacy, obstetrics and gynaecology, education, and tooth brushing for children. Each day we visited a new community, often isolated from the rest of Lima in the “pueblos jóvenes” – a term used for shanty towns.
Seeing the level of poverty with my own eyes was just astounding. My attitude towards my own life, placement and my studies has shifted drastically.
The trip was not only educational but also filled with memorable activities like pisco (brandy) tasting, a boat ride in Ica to take in Peruvian nature and landmarks, sand buggying and sandboarding in the desert by an oasis, dancing with locals, enjoying Peruvian cuisine, and making life-long friends. I am excited to return next year!
The trip to Peru enhanced my confidence and broadened my mind. Initially anxious, I quickly adapted and returned home feeling more assured and receptive to different perspectives.
The people of Lima were incredibly welcoming, kind, and compassionate. I always felt safe and appreciated the vibrant cultural differences.
Working with patients from various cultures on both trips has equipped me to provide better person-centred care in my nursing career.
“I'm beyond grateful to BCU”
These two amazing opportunities have helped me to see the world from different angles, experience new cultures and learn about global healthcare systems.
I feel happier, mentally healthier, and more resilient because of these opportunities. I'm beyond grateful to BCU.
I lived at home and not in halls because of financial reasons, and I was worried I wouldn't get the best University experiences this way. However, through HELS Go Abroad, I have had the best experience one could hope for. I've travelled the globe, not once, but twice! If it wasn't for the grant provided, I probably would never have reached those sides of the world at this age.
My Personal Tutor supported me and encouraged me every step of the way, for which I am eternally grateful.
I have now finished Uni and this trip was the perfect sign-off to a great degree.
“Don’t hesitate!”
If you’re interested in going abroad through BCU, I would say, do it without hesitation! While it might seem daunting to embark on something new and different, the opportunities provided by BCU have been life changing. I am immensely grateful for these experiences, and I encourage all students to take advantage of the incredible opportunities available.'
