University of Florida College of Pharmacy students recently broadened their global perspective of pharmacy and health care through immersive short study abroad experiences in Scandinavia and Japan.
From May 14-30, Akash Alexander, Pharm.D., a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Pharmacy Education and Practice, guided a group of students through the countries of Norway and Denmark with visits to various sites, including community pharmacies and hospitals. They had a chance to learn how local health care systems operate, how medications are distributed and how these services support the surrounding community. Along with this, the cohort had a chance to collaborate with pharmacy students from the University of Oslo, where they engaged in different activities and lectures, one of which included a shared celebration of the Norwegian Constitution Day on May 17.
“The most rewarding aspect of our trip was witnessing how beautifully our students represented our country, university, profession and most importantly themselves while navigating international terrains,” Alexander said. “Through their authentic curiosity to learn about different cultures and unique health systems, they remained engaged with our partners in Norway and Denmark, consistently showcasing the best of what it means to be a Gator.”
Jillian McConnell, a current Pharm.D. candidate in the Class of 2027, says she gained valuable insight into the pharmacy practices of Norway and Denmark, along with their way of life, language and history in a much more meaningful way.
“Some opportunities you run into are once in a lifetime. In such a rigorous program, it’s hard to remember there’s more to the world than constantly studying, and there’s different forms of expanding our knowledge, such as participating in these educational programs,” McConnell said. “It may be a bit intimidating with the logistics, but if you truly want to do a study abroad program, the most important decision is whether you want to do it. Afterwards, everything else will fall into place.”
From May 18-June 1, Khoa Nguyen, Pharm.D., a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Pharmacotherapy and Translational Research, led a group of students through a trip of Japan. The students had a chance to directly observe Japanese pharmacy practices, where they developed a comparative understanding of health care delivery systems, medication management approaches and how pharmaceutical regulations differ from those in the United States. Nguyen says this international exposure often serves as a catalyst for career inspiration, opening students’ eyes to diverse professional pathways, including international pharmacy practice, while providing networking opportunities with Japanese colleagues that enhance their professional development. He says several students are now interested in doing their Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience rotation or a postgraduate fellowship in Japan.
“Leading the Japan study abroad trip with 14 pharmacy students has been both an enriching and multifaceted experience. The two-week immersion provided me with a unique opportunity to develop deeper connections with my students beyond the classroom environment while simultaneously allowing me to engage professionally with Japanese pharmacy practice and education systems,” Nguyen said. “Visiting three Japanese universities facilitated valuable exchanges of teaching methodologies and research practices with international colleagues, expanding my own professional network and knowledge. Without question, the most rewarding aspect has been witnessing the remarkable growth in students over such a short period — seeing them absorb practical knowledge, broaden their perspectives and discover new career inspirations within pharmacy’s diverse landscape brings me profound satisfaction as an educator.”
Genisse Gonzalez, a current Pharm.D. candidate in the class of 2027, decided to study abroad to see how pharmacy practice varies globally and to gain a deeper understanding of patient care in a different cultural context. She chose Japan because of its rich traditions, advanced health care system and the opportunity to immerse herself in a culture that balances innovation with deep-rooted customs. On the trip, she valued visiting the temples and shrines throughout the country while also learning that pharmacy practice must adapt to the customs, communication styles and expectations of each culture.
“If I could give one piece of advice to other student pharmacists considering a study abroad opportunity, I’d say: go for it,” Gonzalez said. “You never know what you’ll learn or how it might change your outlook on life. Studying abroad has not only motivated me to travel and explore other cultures, but it introduced me to a country and people that deeply resonated with me. Japan left such a strong impression that I know I’ll return; not just for the place, but for the wonderful friendships and perspectives I gained along the way.
Short Study Abroad 2025
