Across The Pond

May 4, 2016

I remember getting the news that I was accepted to go on this dialogue to London. It was Christmas Eve and obviously, it was the best part of my winter break. I was so excited. London has always been a travel destination on my dream list since I was a child. Fortunately, I have so many friends from the UK that let me live vicariously through their stories but now, I’m going to be living it myself. The whole thing is just so surreal.

From just getting the news to now only being 7 days away from departure of my trip, the time flew by. Of course there was talking about it, anticipating it, the “what are we going to visit first?” questions, but it hasn’t been completely real until now! When in 7 days time, I will be across the atlantic on a new month-long adventure. I am definitely not ready but somehow that doesn’t matter to me at the moment. All that matters are Youtube videos and blogs on what to pack, how to fit in, what tourist destinations to visit, the best restaurants to eat at, and the hidden gems of the city.

However, what is even more exciting is the fact that I picked a Dialogue of Civilizations topic that I am genuinely interested in. I cannot wait to see how the United Kingdom’s national health care system versus our monopolized insurance companies. It’ll be very interesting to see the pros and cons of their system against the pros and cons of the system in place here in America. During this month, I also get to take a communications in healthcare course while abroad. I really appreciate that these classes will teach me things that are relevant in my career path and things I can carry with me throughout the rest of my educational and professional career.

I think it’s pretty clear that I’m looking forward to this trip (even though I haven’t packed yet…). London and all of it’s great adventures await me! Can’t wait for all the opportunities from “across the pond!”

Written By

Tyra Dukes

As a nursing major, it is very hard to squeeze in some study abroad due to my intensive curriculum. So a dialogue of civilizations was a win-win for me. I would have the ability to travel and immerse myself in a different civilization while also getting ahead on some major requirements. Both of which will help my professional career. I think it is important for everyone to be globally conscious but most importantly, health care professionals. At some point in my life, I will work with someone from a different culture so it is important that I understand, how to be culturally competent. That main skill is what I am most looking forward to from this dialogue.