The impact of an international health study abroad program on university students from the United States

Abstract

Objective: International experience is paramount in society today. However, many US citizens have little understanding of the world beyond US borders. The purpose of this qualitative study was to (i) assess the impact of a study abroad program on students and (ii) the impact on the career goals of students who completed the program.

Participants and methods: Fall 2005 alumni (N = 68) of an international health study abroad program were sent a mail survey.

Results: Twenty-seven of the students who responded to the survey (61%) were currently in medical school, nursing school, or a master's program.

Conclusions: All students indicated the program influenced their global view of the world. Participants indicated the experience continues to have an impact on how they critically think about the world, including US politics.