Day Trip to the Troodos Mountains

Author: Riley Hagen | Major: Nursing | Semester: Summer 2023

I chose the University of Nicosia, Global Semesters: Nursing program because I wanted a program that would allow me to gain first hand experience within healthcare facilities in a different country. The healthcare system within Cyprus is very different from that of the United States and I wanted to gain a broader perspective of the applications of healthcare. Also, Cyprus was a country that I was not super familiar with and I was excited by the prospect of learning more about it. Throughout my stay at the University of Nicosia I have got to experience and learn many wonderful things. In my Nursing Provisions class, we visited the first palliative care center that was established in Cyprus. This visit allowed me to get a closer look at how Cypriot healthcare is organized and applied. Additionally, the content of my class on Management of Care highlighted the differences between healthcare systems in countries and the pros and cons of them. This class also stressed therapeutic communication as healthcare professionals and the importance of empathy and a holistic approach within healthcare. I had the same instructor for both of the courses and she had an abundance of knowledge and experience to share regarding being a healthcare professional. Her approach was different from my courses at the U of A in that much of class time was discussion based. She encouraged our discussions and challenged our reasoning which made for a very fun and educating environment. These discussions allowed time for students to exchange thoughts and gain new perspectives. Overall, the courses that I took through the University of Nicosia have given me a foundation of knowledge about assessing patients in a holistic way that takes into account all aspects of their life and environment. This knowledge will help me greatly as I interact with patients in my program and in my profession.

One aspect of Cypriot culture I was grateful to experience was their traditional Meze dinner. This meal consists of a series of small dishes that are brought for the table to share. These dishes include salads, halloumi cheese, a variety of meat, and more. The meal can span over a few hours and it offers the perfect time to visit with others and enjoy company. Other than the food, I enjoyed spending time in Old Town Nicosia. In Old Town there is beautiful architecture and there the old city walls can be viewed. There are also many opportunities to enjoy conversations with locals as well as a lively atmosphere. The last time I went to Old Town, I was a little lost and a local helped me find my way and then kindly gave me a tour of all of Old Town without me asking. I think that truly speaks to the kindness and friendliness of Cypriots and is one reason I cannot wait until I can visit again.

I would definitely recommend this program to anyone thinking about it. I really enjoyed the classes I took and I have gained experience I will use the rest of my life as a nurse. The excursions that go along with the program were really great because they allowed us to explore the culture of Cyprus and interact with locals. Also, the staff at the University of Nicosia are very welcoming and made every step of the program easy. Before coming to Cyprus I wish I had made a little more effort to learn a few words in Greek so that I could use them as soon as I got here. I think just even knowing a few words allows you to get closer to locals and to the culture of wherever you are. However, once I get home the first thing I am going to do is get a big glass of water, filled to the top with ice. Ice cold water on a hot summer day is one thing I did not realize I would miss, but I did a little.