Tuesdays Abroad: ‘I Gained a Different Perspective’

By Ryan Clark
CHS Communication Director

For Nayeli Lemus, it was all about getting outside her comfort zone. 

And with the help of the College of Health Sciences, she was able to do just that. 

A recent graduate of the Clinical Leadership and Management major, Nayeli was able to travel to Paris, France, with the HHS470 class — International Experiences in Health Sciences. It proved to be a life-changing experience. 

“I wanted to go on this study abroad experience because it was a good opportunity to meet new people, connect with people in the same college as me, and learn more about healthcare globally,” said the Springfield, Ky., native.

Nayeli said students get so much out of learning overseas. 

“I learned a lot about the culture and the healthcare system,” she said. “I think I gained a different perspective on healthcare and can use this to help me in my future career.”

This month, the College of Health Sciences is featuring stories from students or faculty members who have had educational experiences overseas. We’re calling it Tuesdays Abroad — and we’re using this space to show just how influential these voyages can be.

Over the past year, the College has put an increased focus on Education Abroad, launching a CHS Global Initiatives website and emphasizing the benefits that an experience to a foreign country can add to one’s overall college experience. Studies show that students who participate reduce their time to degree, earn a higher GPA at degree, and are more likely to graduate in both four and six years.   

“It is a great opportunity, and you won’t regret doing it,” Nayeli said. “Plan out what activities you would like to do so that you don’t miss anything you want to do while you’re there.” 

And of the many memories she was able to create, one stands out from the rest. 

“I loved going to Disneyland Paris,” she said. “My roommate and I planned this on one of our free weekends and it was an amazing experience that I will cherish forever.”

And what advice does she have for other students thinking of an education abroad experience? It all comes back to that comfort zone. 

“Find a program that will benefit you and that will help you get out of your comfort zone,” she said.