Eight nursing students from Madrid’s Universidad Francisco de Vitoria's Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, participated in a month-long observership program at the prestigious University of Miami Health System this June—a transformative journey coordinated by UM’s School of Nursing and Health Studies (SONHS). The unique opportunity gave these aspiring health care professionals invaluable insights and experience in various specialized medical fields. It grew out of an educational exchange program that Professor of Clinical Johis Ortega, associate dean for Hemispheric and Global Initiatives at SONHS, developed with Universidad Francisco de Vitoria.
The observership program at UHealth is meticulously designed to provide a holistic learning experience, encompassing several renowned medical departments and facilities, including ambulatory surgery, ophthalmology, oculoplastic surgery, interventional radiology, post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), gastroenterology, stem cell, hematology, oncology, wound care, emergency services, and many more. “The observership program with Universidad Francisco de Vitoria embodies our commitment to fostering global health education and highlights the vital role international collaboration plays in shaping the future of nursing," said Dr. Ortega. "In an increasingly interconnected world, it is imperative that nursing students are exposed to diverse health care systems and realities.”
Michael Ruiz: Embracing International Collaboration
Among the participating students in the summer observership was Michael Ruiz, a fourth-year nursing student from Madrid. His journey highlights the enduring commitment of SONHS to foster global educational experiences. Ruiz’s connection with the University of Miami dates back to January 2023, when he first met a group of SONHS nursing students from Miami during their Global Health Transcultural Nursing course in Spain (story here). This earlier exchange took place at Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, as well as Hospital Universitario Quiron Salud and Hospital Universitario del Sureste in Madrid. Ruiz’s decision to participate in an observership at UM over a year later underscores the reciprocal nature of these educational exchanges and the importance of international collaboration in nursing education. “Such experiences broaden their clinical expertise and enhance their cultural competence, ultimately preparing them to provide compassionate and effective care to diverse populations,” said Dr. Ortega.
Commitment to Global Health Education
The observership program reflects the University of Miami Health System's and Universidad Francisco de Vitoria's shared vision of providing comprehensive and diverse educational opportunities. By exposing students to different health care systems and practices, these institutions aim to cultivate a generation of nurses who are well-versed in global health issues and equipped with the skills necessary to excel in a rapidly evolving health care environment.
The participation of eight nursing students from Universidad Francisco de Vitoria in this observership program at the University of Miami Health System is more than just an educational exchange; it is a bridge connecting different cultures, practices, and perspectives in the field of nursing. “This collaboration is a testament to the dedication of both universities to enrich their nursing curricula through international partnerships, thus ensuring that their students are prepared to meet the challenges of modern health care delivery,” said Dr. Ortega. “As these students return to Spain, they carry with them a wealth of knowledge and experiences that will undoubtedly influence their future careers and contribute to the global nursing community.”
