Embracing cultural traditions and health education, nursing students go the extra mile on service-learning trip

January 21, 2025

Author: Caitlin Hanbury

Seven VCU nursing students travel to Guatemala for a service-learning experience, blending cultural immersion and health education to make a lasting impact on local communities.

In January, seven VCU nursing students embarked on a transformative journey through the Nursing Students Without Borders (NSWB) program. Led by Amy Burlar, Ph.D., RN, CCRN, CNE, and Mary Falk, M.S.N., RN, CCRN, PCCN, CNL, both clinical assistant professors, the week-long service-learning experience combined cultural immersion, hands-on service, and impactful health education.

Traveling to Guatemala, the students participated in community-centered service projects and health promotion initiatives, collaborating with indigenous communities to address critical health challenges. The experience provided opportunities to learn, share, and contribute, leaving a lasting impact on both the students and the communities they worked with.

Day 1

The group began their journey with a cultural experience at Lake Atitlán, where they learned about traditional Guatemalan crafts, including ceramic and chocolate-making practices.

a group of seven v.c.u. nursing students with two professors and a guide posing on a beach in front of a lake with a few boats ashore

Day 2

In the morning, students gained insights into the Guatemalan healthcare system through a presentation by Dr. Brisley Galvez in Xela. Later, the group participated in a Mayan ceremony, offering a glimpse into the region’s spiritual and cultural traditions.

a group of seven v.c.u. nursing students and their two professors listen to a presenter leading a discussion in a room adorned with photos, fabrics, and colorful satchels

A group of seven people gathered around and staring at a small fire pit outside of a house

Day 3

In an indigenous Highlands community, students helped build stoves designed to improve health by reducing respiratory illnesses. These stoves minimize exposure to excessive smoke produced by cooking over open fires.

two v.c.u. students in dirty clothes in a dark room with concrete walls standing in front of a makeshift stove made of concrete

Day 4

In the morning, students conducted health education sessions on topics identified by local women as top concerns–diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and alcohol abuse. After participating in health discussions, the women expressed their gratitude to the group by sharing their traditional garments in a cultural exchange.

a v.c.u. nursing student gives a presentation to a crowded room of guatemalan women in a health clinic

a group of nine v.c.u. nursing students and three local health care workers posing in front of a health clinic in guatemala

a group of seven v.c.u. nursing students, two professors, and local guatemalan women pose in traditional, colorful guatemalan garb in front of a home in a mountainous setting

Day 5

The group delivered health education sessions to women who had relocated to the village of Nuevo Chiuicutama after their previous community was destroyed by devastating landslides several years ago.

a large group of guatamalans and v.c.u. nursing students and professors stands outdoors in a large circle with a dog in the middle

Day 6

The students visited the ancient Mayan ruins of Iximché, learning about Guatemala's history and cultural heritage.

ancient mayan ruins in a verdant, mountainous setting

seven v.c.u. nursing students and two v.c.u. professors pose in front of ancient mayan ruins in a verdant setting

Day 7

The journey concluded with a hike on Pacaya Volcano, near Antigua, offering breathtaking views and a chance to reflect on the transformative experience.

four v.c.u. nursing students dressed in hiking gear headed up a steep, rocky trail in a verdant setting

four v.c.u. students and three guatemalans dressed in hiking gear pose in front of a tall mountain