By Steffanie Yvonne Davasol

Students from Rutgers University and CPU College of Nursing come together for a group photo, celebrating friendship, cultural exchange, and shared learning during the international visit.

On the afternoon of January 13, 2026, fifteen undergraduate students majoring in nursing, business, and history from Rutgers University—The State University of New Jersey visited the CPU College of Nursing as part of their first-ever Rutgers Learning Abroad Program in the Philippines. After completing a two-day medical mission in Buenavista, Guimaras, the group took time to explore the College of Nursing, accompanied by Mrs. Easter “Manay” C. Arora.

The program formally began with a heartfelt message from Mrs. Arora, a proud alumna of the BSN Class of 1962. This was followed by inspiring messages from Dean Melba C. Sale, dean of the College of Nursing, Dr. Jamille Nagtalon-Ramos, faculty member of Rutgers University, and Ms. Camille Angela Belandres, Governor of the College of Nursing.

An interactive “getting to know you” session followed, allowing students from both universities to introduce themselves by sharing their name, age, year level, and the highlight of their stay in Iloilo. This activity helped establish rapport and foster a warm, welcoming atmosphere between the visiting and host students.

Afterward, each Rutgers University student was paired with a CPU student nurse who served as their counterpart during the college tour. The students explored various rooms and simulation areas within the LDT Building, including the Central Supply Room, Lucina Simulation Room, Apollo Simulation Room, and the Operating Room Simulation.

Visiting students from Rutgers University gather for a group photo at the CPU College of Nursing, commemorating their enriching visit and the meaningful connections built during their cultural and academic exchange.

Throughout the tour, students exchanged experiences, insights, and perspectives on clinical exposure, academic routines, and nursing practices, highlighting both the differences and shared values between the two institutions.

Beyond academic learning, the visit became a meaningful avenue for building friendships and mutual understanding. It was truly a privilege to welcome the students of Rutgers University and an honor to showcase the facilities, learning environment, and values upheld by the CPU College of Nursing.

To Rutgers University Pinay Health, we wish you success in your future endeavors. You are always welcome at CPU, and we look forward to the possibility of welcoming you again in the future.

Above all, we thank our God Almighty for this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together across cultures and borders. To God be all the glory!