Igniting Global Impact - KPU Nursing Field Schools
Meet Cindy Milner—a dedicated faculty member in the Faculty of Health at Kwantlen Polytechnic University and a passionate Nursing instructor. In 2024, Cindy led transformative field school experiences that immersed students in global health challenges and enriched their academic journey. Here’s her exciting story!
Interviewer: Good morning, Cindy! Thank you for joining us. Can you share the highlights of the amazing field schools you led last year?
Cindy: Absolutely! In 2024, I had the privilege of guiding our nursing students on two exhilarating journeys—to Antigua, Guatemala and Arusha, Tanzania. Before the students embarked on their adventures, I personally took a one-week exploratory trip to each destination. This ensured that both locations would deliver the immersive and fulfilling experiences our program demands, as well as the students safety. These incredible opportunities were made possible by the KPU’s Global SDGs Fund from KPU International.
Interviewer: That sounds like a unique blend of academic rigor and real-world exploration! What exactly is a field school, and why is it so beneficial?
Cindy: Think of a field school as a condensed “study abroad” experience. It allows students to earn academic credits while stepping outside the traditional classroom to engage directly with communities and healthcare systems in different cultural settings. For instance, on our Guatemala trip, nine nursing students spent 17 days learning through hands-on activities—from patient care at local clinics to interactive sessions with a Mayan healer, who introduced them to traditional medicinal practices. This type of immersive learning not only deepens their understanding of global health but also broadens their cultural perspective.
Interviewer: And what made the Tanzania experience equally compelling?
Cindy: In Arusha, Tanzania, our students worked in both government and private clinics, gaining first-hand experience in a region with one of the world’s lowest healthcare access rates. Over a focused 23-day period, the students engaged in community health initiatives and even participated in guided tours of local areas. This dynamic environment provided invaluable insights into the challenges and innovations in global healthcare delivery.
Interviewer: It sounds like these experiences are not only academically enriching but also deeply inspiring for both students and faculty. Are there plans for more destinations in the future?
Cindy: Absolutely! We’re already exploring new horizons, including an exciting opportunity in Sri Lanka focused on acute clinical in a 2000 bed teaching hospital with 54 departments, including psychiatric nursing and mental health care. This upcoming trip promises to further expand our global health initiatives and offer fresh, diverse experiences for our students.
Interviewer: Before we wrap up, can you share some details about participation and funding logistics?
Cindy: Sure! For the Tanzania trip, we had 10 enthusiastic students accompanied by 1 faculty members, while the Guatemala field school hosted 9 students, and 2 faculty. Although the costs are separate from tuition fees these field schools represent an invaluable investment in real-world learning—one that significantly enhances both academic and professional growth. Grants and scholarships are available to students.
Interviewer: Thank you so much for sharing your experiences, Cindy. Your enthusiasm and insights truly highlight the transformative power of these international opportunities.
Cindy: It was my pleasure! I hope my journey inspires fellow faculty members to seize these opportunities. Let’s continue pushing the boundaries of traditional education together and make global health an integral part of our academic mission!
For more information on KPU International faculty funding opportunities please contact Global Partnerships Team at global.partnerships@kpu.ca.
Embrace the adventure, expand your horizons, and transform education through global engagement!
