Gabriela Hernandez Carranza

Overall Experience

My experience in Norway was transformative both personally and professionally. Throughout the trip, I was able to explore the country’s culture, healthcare system, and social values in a way that deepened my understanding of global health. From navigating Oslo’s public transportation system to visiting major healthcare institutions, every day offered meaningful learning moments. This experience opened my eyes to new perspectives and deepened my dedication to nursing, highlighting its important role in both providing care and advocating for patients' rights.

Learning experience

The most valuable learning experience was visiting a healthcare center for people with addiction. Nurses spent time with patients, shared meals, and built an environment based on trust and respect. It showed us how healing it can be when patients in vulnerable states feel seen and valued. This experience motivated me to learn more about addiction care in the U.S. I want to find out what works, what doesn’t, and what could be better. This experience reinforced the idea that compassionate, human-centered care is effective and should be the standard we strive for.

Memorable experience

One of my most memorable experiences was enjoying nature in Norway and using their public transportation system to move around the country. Immersing myself in a culture and environment so different from what I’m used to felt refreshing. Whether it was hiking Mount Fløyen, exploring the fjords, or navigating Oslo by tram, these moments helped me appreciate how lifestyle, environment, and community design influence well being.

What did you not expect?

I was surprised to see that Norway, despite its strong social systems, still experiences homelessness and housing insecurity. This served as a reminder that every country has inequities. It emphasized the need to go beyond our initial beliefs, to truly understand the situation, and to acknowledge that every community faces its own unique, often unseen difficulties. As a nurse, to approach patients and populations without preconceived ideas and to stay curious about the factors influencing their health.

What advice would you give?

I recommend that future students learn a little about the Norwegian culture before traveling. Having that background helps you ask deeper questions and engage more meaningfully with people you meet. Step out of your bubble: try new foods, explore new places, and embrace unfamiliar experiences. Lastly, take time to reflect each day; journaling helped me connect what I was seeing to concepts from my nursing program, or even debriefing with classmates helped me see other perspectives.

How has this experience impacted your life?

This experience has had a significant impact on how I view healthcare, social determinants of health, and my role as a future nurse. By the end of the trip, I realized how political structures influence health equity. Watching Parliament in session and seeing how Norway treats healthcare as a human right reinforced the idea that nurses have a responsibility not only at the bedside, but also in shaping policies that protect patients. This trip helped me see that continuing my education can open doors to leadership roles where I can advocate for patients on a broader scale.

How did you learn about this experience?

I first learned about this opportunity through my nursing program at Iowa State University. The nursing faculty shared information about the Norway practicum as part of the curriculum and hearing past students describe their experiences encouraged me to apply.

International Connections