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This summer, six nursing students from Hawai‘i Pacific University’s School of Nursing—Nicole Arucan, Jejomar Balanay, Ethan Fuller, Ronnalyn Gutierrez, Esmé Tsirkas, and Tipperat Tiensuwan—embarked on a life-changing cultural immersion at Tokyo Women’s Medical University (TWMU). From June 13 to 23, 2025, the students, accompanied by ºÚÁÏÀÏ˾»ú faculty members Assistant Professor Joy Bliss, Ph.D., RN (Interim Chair, BSN Program) and Lecturer Jo Wakayama, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, explored Japan’s healthcare systems, engaged in interprofessional learning, and forged lasting cross-cultural connections.

The ten-day experience blended academic exchange, clinical observation, and cultural enrichment. Students toured world-class hospitals, including Adachi Medical Center, and observed cutting-edge technologies such as AI-assisted surgery, advanced patient monitoring systems, and innovative disaster preparedness strategies.

“The technology presented to us by TWMU gave me a glimpse of the future of healthcare. The teamwork exercises and the friendships we built with the Japanese students made this experience unforgettable.” — Nicole Arucan

“What left the biggest impression on me was seeing how Japan integrates patient education into discharge planning. It’s a proactive approach that helps patients heal at home and maintain their health.” — Ethan Fuller

“One of my favorite moments was a teamwork challenge where we pieced together shredded paper as a group. It showed how communication and delegation strengthen a team. I’m so thankful for the knowledge and friendships I gained on this amazing trip.” — Tipperat Tiensuwan

Students participated in unique learning activities, including teamwork simulations, aging-suit exercises to understand geriatric challenges, and interactive lectures that strengthened their communication and collaboration skills.

“The chance to wear aging simulation suits gave me a new appreciation for the struggles elderly patients face. It reminded me of the importance of empathy in nursing care.” — Jejomar Balanay

“I was inspired by TWMU’s seamless balance of technology and compassion. Despite the language barrier at times, the nurses and doctors made me feel safe and cared for.” — Ronnalyn Gutierrez

“As someone interested in neonatal nursing, visiting the NICU and GCU at Adachi Medical Center was a highlight. The hospital’s disaster preparedness efforts were equally impressive.” — Esmé Tsirkas

Faculty leaders praised the program’s depth and the students’ engagement.

“This year’s trip was even more meaningful thanks to thoughtful improvements, like better timing and closer accommodations to TWMU. Watching our students connect so genuinely across cultures was a highlight of my career.” — Lecturer Jo Wakayama, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC

“Our goal is to foster culturally competent nurses ready to serve globally. This immersion helped students see healthcare through a new lens—one that values community, innovation, and compassion.” — Assistant Professor Joy Bliss, Ph.D., RN

ºÚÁÏÀÏ˾»ú deeply appreciates the generosity and hospitality of TWMU faculty and staff, who provided not only educational enrichment but also heartfelt support, even during an unexpected student illness. This partnership exemplifies the spirit of global collaboration and mutual respect.

The ºÚÁÏÀÏ˾»ú School of Nursing looks forward to continuing and expanding these cultural exchanges, preparing future nurses to meet the healthcare needs of diverse populations with knowledge, skill, and aloha.

To learn more about international nursing opportunities at ºÚÁÏÀÏ˾»ú, visit the ºÚÁÏÀÏ˾»ú School of Nursing at .

Photos courtesy of the 2025 Japan Cultural Immersion cohort.