Class Meetings
Meeting One - 03/28/2025
During the first meeting, we were introduced to some of the objectives of the course and for our time abroad, including cultural competency and understanding Nordic health care systems. Most of the class content involved a discussion on the video "Health care: America vs. the World" as an introduction to how United States health care compares to other countries. One thing that we talked about is how the U.S. tends to focus and spend more money on treatment rather than prevention, which is different from most other developed countries. The session closed with pieces of information for our time abroad, including basic essentials and a general outline.
Reflection
This first session was a really great opportunity to get to know everyone that was a part of the program. Not only this, but having the discussion strengthened my understanding of the associated video. By having the opportunity to gain insight into my classmates' thoughts about the US healthcare system, I was able to think more deeply about things that I hadn't previously considered. Overall, this class session was a great opening to the program and really enhanced my excitement for the study abroad.
Meeting Two - 04/11/2025
During the second meeting, we focused more on Nordic health care itself with a large emphasis on its history. This included the various types of healthcare reform and models that led to the present day system. This was then related to the core values of universal health care and the forces of change. The lecture ended with a conversation about future reformations.
Reflection
This lecture was incredibly valuable in understanding the history and context behind the present-day Nordic healthcare system. I feel that in understanding some of the values that relate to universal healthcare, I have a better representation of the some of the cultural values as well.
Meeting Three - 04/25/2025
The focus of the third meeting was on Scandinavian culture. This includes the major historical events and periods that impacted the culture in the area. A conversation was then opened up about a lot of cultural values including equal rights, modesty, and a high respect for government and the law. Other cultural aspects that were discussed included activities, traditional and modern clothing, food, events, and more.
Reflection
The most interesting thing about this meeting was getting the opportunity to hear from one of our instructors who is from Scandinavia. In gaining a more personal reflection on Scandinavian culture, I feel I have gained a detailed and accurate representation of the culture. Some of the things that stood out to me were their emphasis on modesty and their trust in the taxation process.
Meeting Four - 05/09/2025
The fourth and final class meeting centered around the itinerary itself for the program. This included some of the cultural sites that we will be visiting both in Norway and Sweden, and the types of lectures that we will get to go to. This was largely used to talk about some logistics for the program itself before we depart in a few weeks.
Reflection
In receiving the agenda for the program, I am more excited for this program than I ever have been. I really appreciate the instructors providing some recommendations for cultural sites to visit in the free time that we have. I am so SO excited for this program and to also meet everyone face to face.