School of Nursing: Netherlands Travel Course
The course, Health 310, titled Travel Seminar: Health Care/Nursing Care in The Netherlands, offered Illinois Wesleyan University nursing students a unique opportunity to expand their understanding of healthcare beyond the United States. Directed by Dr. Donna Hartweg, the program provided students with both academic and cultural experiences abroad.
Before departure, students received essential travel documents, including packing guidelines, tips for managing jet lag, and recommendations on budgeting for the trip. These preparations ensured that everyone was on the same page before embarking on their journey. With bags packed and anticipation high, students navigated airport security, boarded their flights, and set off for an unforgettable learning experience. Upon arrival in the Netherlands, students settled into their accommodations, explored the local scenery, and prepared for the days ahead. While the trip allowed for sightseeing and cultural immersion, academics remained at the forefront. Students were required to keep journals documenting their experiences, which ranged from clinical observations in hospitals to personal reflections on their time abroad. Though these journals were graded, their primary purpose was to encourage meaningful reflection on the differences between Dutch and American healthcare systems. Beyond hospital settings, students visited psychiatric facilities and engaged with healthcare professionals, gaining insight into different approaches to patient care. These experiences were structured through both a travel itinerary and an academic itinerary, ensuring a balance between professional learning and cultural exploration.
The Netherlands had become a popular study abroad destination for IWU nursing students by the early 1990s, illustrating the program’s strong appeal. Upon their return home, students—nicknamed the "Titan Twelve"—were warmly welcomed back to campus by The Titan Traveler and IWU President Minor Myers. Their journey highlighted the global reach of Illinois Wesleyan's nursing program and reinforced the value of international experiences in shaping well-rounded healthcare professionals. Illinois Wesleyan’s nursing program extends far beyond clinical rotations in the United States. With opportunities like the Netherlands study abroad program, students gain first hand exposure to global healthcare systems, preparing them to approach patient care with a broader, more informed perspective.