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#From a theory-based understanding to a practical perspective #Skills in empathy and communication in field nursing #Three weeks of rediscovering the direction of nursing
A Precious Time to Discover Myself
Hello, I am Kim Eun-jae, a 24-year-old on a break from nursing studies. I participated in a medical volunteer project in Vietnam because I wanted to explore my career as a nurse and have meaningful experiences related to my major. Through three weeks of medical volunteer work, I expected to meet people in need firsthand and truly feel the role of nursing.
I aimed to broaden my understanding of nursing beyond just textbook knowledge through real-life experiences caring for people. I wanted to clarify my responsibilities and mission as a nurse while experiencing firsthand that the essence of nursing is the same despite different environments and cultures. I applied for this project hoping to grow personally by expanding my view and adapting and challenging myself in a new environment while interacting with participants from various countries.
At first, I was worried about safety, health, and language issues because I would stay abroad for a relatively long time. However, with the guidance and systematic management from the gap year program, I received enough information about daily life, which eased my worries over time. Before my departure, I researched Vietnamese culture and basic living information to raise my understanding of the local context. I also reviewed my major knowledge and prepared necessary vaccinations and personal medicine. Additionally, I practiced basic English and prepared my mindset to adapt to the new environment.
Once I arrived on-site, I could live comfortably and focus on my activities with the help of staff and fellow participants. The local accommodation and activity environment were generally stable, and I spent my time without major inconveniences. Thanks to the thorough prior guidance and local support, I felt relatively safe to engage in activities abroad. I want to express my gratitude to the Korean Gap Year staff who provided careful guidance throughout the preparation process and ensured quick communication during my stay.
One day, I had breakfast at 7 am and walked to the hospital at 7:30 am. The hospital was about a 20-minute walk away, and when I arrived, I changed into my practice uniform and worked in my chosen department until 10:30 am. After returning to my accommodation for lunch and some free time, I left again for the hospital at 1:30 pm and practiced until 3:30 pm. I could enjoy balance between service work and leisure time by traveling on weekends and during free periods.
I was deeply moved by the local people's heartfelt gratitude for even the smallest assistance in an under-resourced medical environment. Volunteering provided valuable opportunities to connect my studies with practical experiences, and I truly felt the meaning of nursing. I learned the significance of empathy and communication while applying the theoretical knowledge I had learned in actual situations. Observing people helping each other to the best of their abilities in difficult conditions, I realized that the essence of nursing lies more in one's heart than in technical skills.
I spent a lot of time working with fellow nursing students from Korea. Sharing concerns about medical volunteering with peers who have similar majors and career paths helped me feel a strong sense of empathy and motivation. The experience of preparing and collaborating together helped me realize the importance of teamwork, and I believe these valuable connections will remain with me as I continue to grow as a nurse. Volunteering with participants of different nationalities taught me how to respect and cooperate with diverse cultures and values.
During the project, I utilized weekends for travel and went to Dalat, Vietnam, by sleeper bus. Dalat is a city with refreshing weather and beautiful nature, which made it a great spot for photos, leading to high satisfaction even with a short visit. I could relax while exploring lakes, cafes, and gardens, and I think it’s a good travel route for recharging after volunteer work. I also had time to reflect while enjoying nature, and this entire process became a meaningful memory of harmony between service and travel.
Before participating in the project, I had only a theoretical understanding of nursing and many vague thoughts about my career. However, after participating in the gap year, I began to see the role and responsibility of nursing more realistically through actual medical experiences. I feel that going through challenges and reflecting on myself among new environments and people has given me more certainty about my career and a more mature attitude. I rate the impact of this project on my life as a 9, and I believe it has become an important turning point that will positively influence my future studies and career choices.
The three weeks of the gap year project in Vietnam was a special time that made me reevaluate my nursing major. The sincere eyes of the people I met at the medical volunteer site and their gratitude for even the smallest help remain vivid in my memory. This gap year was a precious turning point that went beyond just overseas experience, allowing me to reflect on my direction as a nurse and my approach to life. Based on this experience, I want to continue growing as a nurse who respects and empathizes with people.
I believe that a gap year project is not just about overseas experience but also a precious time for self-reflection and growth. Participating with an open mind in all processes of volunteering, traveling, and exchanging ideas will lead to greater learning and meaning. Even when unexpected situations arise, I advise adopting a flexible attitude and engaging actively, as this will improve your experience. I wish to take this moment to express my gratitude once again to the staff at Korean Gap Year, who genuinely cared for each participant.
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