Sixteen nursing students from Chang Gung University of Science and Technology in Taiwan participated in CSUSB’s Nursing Immersion Program from July 8-Aug. 1. Hosted by the College of Extended and Global Education and CSUSB’s Department of Nursing, the program combined theoretical knowledge with practical experience and site observation, enhancing participants’ professional skills and providing a well-rounded learning experience.

The collaborative initiative enhanced students’ clinical competencies through hands-on practice in the CSUSB Nursing Simulation Lab, which was setup as an intensive care unit (ICU). In the lab, students learned the protocols for working in that environment and the different roles in the ICU.

During the program, the students visited CSUSB’s Student Health Center and University Center for Developmental Disabilities (UCDD), as well as Primary One Care ADHC, to broaden their professional experience and gain real-life skills. The field trips exposed the students to career pathways and working with different communities and age demographics, such as children, adults and the elderly.

“UCDD serves individuals with developmental disabilities and their families in San Bernardino and the surrounding communities,” according to its website. The students were able to learn about the center’s services and resources, as well as observe effective communication strategies between the staff and clients.

The students stayed on campus in Arrowhead Village during the four-week program, giving them the opportunity to experience college life at CSUSB. Additionally, the students hosted an event, Taiwan Night, which featured food and cultural activities, enriching the cross-cultural engagement between the students and campus community.

The program proved to be mutually beneficial, and CSUSB is scheduled to welcome the next cohort of nursing students from Chang Gung University of Science and Technology in summer 2025.

In addition to an international experience, the program showcased the differences between Taiwan and the United States’ nursing system, education, and skills. This was invaluable information for the students interested in pursuing their nursing education in the U.S.

The Nursing Immersion Program also strengthened CSUSB’s partnership with the foreign institution and gave faculty the opportunity to engage with international students, who provided them different perspectives due to their diverse backgrounds. Additionally, the international exchange showcased to participants CSUSB’s quality education and the many programs the university has to offer.