From Thailand to Hong Kong

Nongnapat Chaleewong | Year 1 Doctor of Nursing student

When I was an undergraduate student, I planned to pursue a master’s degree after gaining work experience. Fortunately, the Ramathibodi School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University provided an opportunity for students interested in self-improvement to work as lecturers at the university, and I was one of the students who received this opportunity. Almost a year after completing my master’s degree, I worked as an assistant lecturer in Thailand. My work experience guided me on what I should improve and learn to enhance my teaching and professional skills; thus, I began searching for a doctoral programme that would support me in achieving my learning goals.

As a lecturer, teaching skills and academic research skills are essential for organising the teaching process and supporting students’ needs. I spent time exploring various doctoral programmes from different universities until I found the Doctor of Nursing programme offered by The University of Hong Kong. This programme comprises coursework and research components that can fulfil my learning needs. Moreover, The University of Hong Kong is one of the top-ranked universities and offers many facilities and forms of support, such as research support, scholarships, and sponsorship for international conference participation. Without hesitation, I decided to apply to this programme to achieve my dream.

From the first days, despite the many difficulties, the teaching staff and professors have consistently provided recommendations and support for all students. I look forward to applying the knowledge and skills I gain at HKU to enhance nursing education and patient care in Thailand. Furthermore, I hope to have the opportunity to explore Hong Kong’s culture regarding healthcare beliefs and nursing practices and to exchange information through conducting cross-cultural research studies in the future.