McGill University, Canada
Li Chin-hang|
Bosco Leung Kwok-hei
|
Year 3 Bachelor of Nursing (Full-time) students
This winter exchange semester at McGill University has been a transformative journey filled with valuable experiences and personal growth.
During our time at McGill, we had the opportunity to engage in rigorous academic coursework that challenged our intellect and enhanced our nursing competency. The coursework covered various disciplines, including life sciences, pain management, respiratory science, education psychology, and French language. We were exposed to innovative experimental teaching methods and a multidisciplinary approach to healthcare, broadening our horizons and fostering a spirit of lifelong learning.
The exchange semester also provided a unique chance to engage in overseas community service initiatives. We volunteered at the Montreal Chinese Hospital, the Montreal-based NGO Yellowdoor, and McGill MyInvolvement. Navigating cultural differences, overcoming the French-English language barrier, and embracing diversity helped us in our personal growth and self-discovery.
Shadowing nursing practitioners (NPs), registered nurses (RNs), and healthcare assistants (PABs) gave us a first-hand experience of the Canadian public healthcare system. We were particularly interested in the advanced nursing practice system, where certified nursing practitioners (NPs) can provide primary care independently, facilitating effective care and improving patient outcomes alongside family doctors. This system greatly improves healthcare accessibility and continuity of care, and encourages ongoing education for nurses.
We also engaged with the community, meeting older adults in the Mont-Royal neighbourhood. We got to know their lives and stories from all across Canada, listened to their health concerns, and learned about their thoughts on healthy and positive ageing, that is, to be involved in the community and be as active as they can. The importance of community involvement and an active life resonated with us. These experiences, both inside and outside the clinic, have ultimately nurtured us to become more compassionate and culturally sensitive healthcare providers with a global vision of ageing.
Beyond the studies and the volunteering, the city of Montreal, Quebec has a vibrant and multicultural community that offered numerous opportunities for cultural immersion and exploration during our exchange semester. We connected with peers from all corners of the globe and various disciplines, forging lifelong friendships. The memories of embracing new experiences together, such as attending winter carnivals, picking up the sport of skiing, and going on epic road trips, will never fade away.
As the McGill motto goes, “Grandescunt Aucta Labore” (Latin for “By work, all things increase and grow”). We will carry this spirit into our lives and studies, constantly striving for improvement outside of our comfort zones. We are preparing ourselves to provide quality patient care and make a positive impact in Hong Kong and global communities. This transformative journey at McGill is undoubtedly one of the highlights of our undergraduate careers at HKUSON.
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