GlConnections in Care: South Korean nursing students join U of A for summer exchange

Today
By Ann Hess and Emily Tam, U of A Nursing, Office of Marketing & Communications
Dean Ahn and visiting students from South Korea holding sign outside

From June 23 to 26, the College of Nursing hosted the first session of its 2025 Summer Program for International Nursing Students, an immersive, hands-on experience designed to strengthen global connections and enrich nursing education through cross-cultural exchange. This year’s program, led by Juyoung Park, PhD, FGSA, a College of Nursing professor, welcomed eight exceptional students from South Korea’s CHA University. “This partnership shows how committed we are to global nursing education and giving students a real look at the U.S. healthcare system, “ said Park.

During the four-day visit, students visited various health care facilities in Tucson, including Tucson Medical Center (TMC), Banner University Medical Center (UMC), and Sandstone Nursing Home. They observed clinical rounds in adult critical care, shadowed nurses in neonatal, pediatric, and labor and delivery units, and learned about long-term residential care practices. These firsthand experiences provide a deeper understanding of how health care is delivered in the U.S., giving students knowledge they can apply to their communities and future careers.

The program also included interactive training in the College’s advanced simulation facilities, the Steele Innovative Learning Center (SILC) and the Arizona Simulation Technology and Education Center (ASTEC), along with engaging presentations on nursing research and career paths by the College of Nursing’s professors Patricia Daly, PhD, FNP-BC, ENP-BC, FAANP, an associate clinical professor, Chen Chen, PhD, RN, MBBS, FAAN, endowed professor, Gladys E Sorensen Chair, and Lauren Acosta, PhD, RN, SANE-A, CPH, assistant clinical professor. A highlight of the week was visiting the Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation (SAAF) Health Clinic, where students saw how community-based care helps vulnerable populations.

Brian Ahn, PhD, dean of the College of Nursing, welcomed the group and highlighted the significance of programs like this. “The College of Nursing is proud to partner with CHA University in shaping the next generation of health care leaders. International exchanges like this are more than academics; they are powerful opportunities to share knowledge, build friendships, and strengthen the global nursing workforce,” said Ahn.

Sunki Kim, assistant professor of CHA University, stated, " This program was a great way to get to know the American nursing education system and culture. All of the students who participated agreed that this trip was a 'turning point' for them as nursing students. We will build on this experience to develop our global competencies and become nurses who will shine in the future healthcare system."

Park said, “It was wonderful seeing them dive into hands-on learning and connect with our faculty and community partners. Programs like this build bridges and help shape the future of nursing worldwide.”

Programs like this provide mutual benefits for both countries: U.S. students and faculty gain valuable global perspectives, while visiting students bring back new ideas and skills that enrich their practice and institutions. The college looks forward to continuing this dynamic partnership, promoting global collaboration, mutual understanding, and a shared commitment to improving global health.