Chandana Adhikari: Gaining global perspective

Earlier this summer, Chandana Adhikari set out to experience a new culture and returned with a broader perspective on healthcare, nursing and herself. We sat down with her to talk about her experience in the Abroad in Cyprus program and what she'll carry into her future nursing career.

What sparked your interest in studying abroad, and why did you choose Cyprus?

I've always loved the idea of traveling and experiencing new places. When I learned about the opportunity to spend an entire month in Cyprus while earning credit, I knew I had to apply. It was the perfect combination of travel, education and personal growth. I knew this experience would help me grow both as a student and future nurse.

I looked at other study abroad programs and this one stood out to me because the learning was not limited to inside the classroom. This experience included nursing, public health and cultural immersion, which I thought was an important component when traveling to another country and gaining more perspective. 

What course did you take and how will it help your future nursing career? 

I took NURSING 3798 with Dr. Dianne Morrison-Beedy, which focused on sustainability, health and well-being. We learned how environmental, cultural and social factors influence health and healthcare around the world.  My experience reinforced the importance of providing culturally sensitive, patient-centered care. Every patient comes from a different background with unique beliefs and experiences that influence their health. As a future nurse, I'll carry forward the adaptability, open-mindedness and cultural awareness I developed while abroad to help me build stronger connections with my patients.

Can you share some of your most memorable moments from the trip?

It's hard to pick just one! Swimming in the Blue Lagoon and flyboarding for the first time were two of the biggest highlights. One of my favorite traditions was our weekly family dinners with the group. A different house hosted each week, and everyone would bring a homemade dish. We spent the evenings eating, socializing and completing assignments. I also loved our evening walks near the boardwalk, enjoying the beautiful sunset and almost always ending the night with ice cream. That's how we discovered mastic ice cream — after trying it once, we were hooked. It was the little traditions like these that made Cyprus feel like home. 

What did you gain or learn about yourself from your experience?

I came home with much more than I expected. Living in a different country for a month helped me gain perspective on nursing outside of the U.S. and how healthcare systems differ. It taught me to be more adaptable, open-minded and comfortable stepping outside of my routine. Beyond everything I learned, the friendships and memories made the experience even more meaningful.

What advice would you give to another student interested in education abroad?

Do it! Studying abroad was one of the most rewarding experiences of my college journey. Be willing to take risks, step outside your comfort zone and embrace challenging experiences. Growth often happens when you least expect it. Meet new people, immerse yourself in the culture, ask questions and be open to seeing the world from a different perspective. You'll come home with unforgettable memories.