Egan students can choose from specially tailored programs designed to expand their horizons in nursing, social work, or public health education.

During junior year, nursing students can select courses and participate in clinicals at Fairfield’s partner institutions at James Cook University in Townsville, Australia (fall semester) or National University of Ireland Galway (spring semester).

Beginning in spring 2024, nursing students also have a new option to spend the spring semester of their sophomore year at Florence University of the Arts in Florence, Italy.

Offered as a semester study abroad opportunity, James Cook University in Townsville, Australia is designed to further develop aptitude in the nursing discipline, offer an international perspective on the subject matter, and provide an immersive 80-hour clinical placement experience.

Nursing student Autumn Arel ’24 described Townsville as “the perfect place to be as a college student,” with a beautiful waterfront and great places to shop and dine. Plus, it’s only a short flight from other popular Australian destinations such as Melbourne, Brisbane, and Sydney.

During her time in Townsville, Arel completed her clinical rotation in a rheumatology, endocrinology, and general medicine unit. One of her favorite parts about the clinical experience was the relationships she formed with the nurses and healthcare professionals she worked alongside. “All the nurses I was partnered with were so committed to helping me grow as a student nurse,” she said. “They pushed me out of my comfort zone in the process.”

Another student, Kaitlyn Nolan ‘24, was paired with a nurse who treated patients on the acute floor during her clinical rotation at Townsville Hospital and Health Service, including those who have suffered strokes and neurological issues. Nolan also volunteered at Brighter Lives, the hospital’s official charity partner, and worked in the pediatric unit until January.

“This program and clinical rotation have been extremely eye-opening experiences,” she said, “and I’ve realized how much a nurse really impacts patients’ lives, and their families’ lives.”

Short-term options such as faculty-led intersession and summer programs are ideal for students who are unable to study abroad for an entire semester. Short-term options include London, England; Barcelona, Spain; Florence, Italy; and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

One such experience is the faculty-led course in palliative care communication, taught in Florence, Italy. This summer, undergraduate and graduate nursing and communication students spent a weeklong immersion at the Florence University of the Arts to learn about palliative care communication.

Led by faculty members Michael Pagano, PhD, PA-C, professor of communication, and Eileen O’Shea, DNP, APRN, PCNS-BC, CHPPN, professor of nursing and director of the Kanarek Center for Palliative Care, the interdisciplinary, intercultural course allowed students to develop an understanding of palliative care and the critical role communication plays in achieving the interdependent goals of providers, patients, and families, in the United States and in Italy. While in Italy, students attended lectures at Florence University of the Arts and visited local hospitals.

Of her experience, Amelia Brennock ’25 said, “It sounds cliché, but it was absolutely life-changing for me. From Italy’s beautiful sights to our course’s powerful work, it was truly a once in a lifetime experience.”