Submitted by Victoria Sanchez on the 2017 winter session program in the British Virgin Islands sponsored by the College of Health Sciences…
When I first came to this island, I had no idea what to expect. I’m not sure what exactly I expected, but the first few days were definitely not what I expected. Four weeks later, it is safe to say I can call this place home. With a few short days left in Tortola, some sadness is starting to set in. Although the program is not over yet and I am just leaving the island itself, I can’t help, but feel like I’m leaving a piece of me behind.
The hardest thing about leaving Tortola will definitely be the good-byes. I spent days on end with nurses mentoring me at the hospital. I heard all about their passion for nursing, their families, and cultural beliefs and background. Today, I said my farewells to the nursing staff, knowing I will most likely never see them again. I also have to bid my good-byes to local friends I have met spending these consecutive weeks in Cane Garden Bay. Waiters and waitresses, hotel employees and even tourists on the beach know us as “the nurses”. Even though, I have only been here for a short period of time, I feel a bitter sweet loss of the relationships I have formed.
I would like to thank Tortola for the long lasting friendships I have made here. This program grouped me together with 13 amazing girls who I probably would have never met. As cheesy as it sounds, everyone is unique in their own way. We take the taxi together, work in clinical together, share meals together, experience excursions together and some of us even live together. Spending this much time with each other has led to incredible friendships I will never forget. I will be leaving Tortola on Saturday with a full heart and unforgettable memories. Next stop, St.Thomas!