The University of New Mexico College of Nursing is shaping the future of health care worldwide – sometimes in unexpected ways. Through its programs, nurses from different backgrounds connect, share knowledge and inspire one another.
In a high school classroom in South Korea, two friends who met at the UNM College of Nursing stood side by side. Emily Butler, a nurse and alumna, shared her journey with a group of students eager to enter the health care field. Beside her, Jihea Kang, a fellow nurse and teacher, translated, ensuring everyone could follow. For Butler, the experience was eye-opening.
The RN-to-BSN program creates community, fellowship and understanding of social determinants of health globally. Emily and Jihea’s story illustrates the worldwide value of the online program. It is exciting to see strong relationships be created in nursing globally.
- Victoria Yu, DNP, JD, RN, UNM RN-to-BSN Program Director
“Speaking to the students was so encouraging and inspiring to me. They are at the beginning of their professional career, and their dedication was impressive. Seeing their effort and enthusiasm made me reflect on my own journey.”
The students asked thoughtful questions about nursing in the U.S., eager to understand different health care systems.
“Some students already had specific specialties in mind. I was surprised that a few wanted to become nurses in America,” Butler said. “Their courage to pursue a challenging profession in another country was inspiring.”
Bridging Borders
Kang had followed a similar path. Supported by her mother, she pursued nursing and developed a passion for helping others. “My mom, who passed away 10 years ago, encouraged me to enter nursing school,” she said. “I also loved helping others through church activities, so nursing felt like a natural fit.”
Kang earned a teaching certification and worked at Korea University Hospital before life took her to the United States when her husband, a U.S. Air Force officer, was selected for a government-funded study program at UNM.
In the U.S., Kang often studied for the National Council Licensure Examination in Zimmerman Library, and after passing the exam, she became curious about UNM’S nursing programs. She was inspired to apply to the online RN-to-BSN program at the UNM College of Nursing, where she is now completing her degree. In the future, she hopes to apply to a nurse practitioner program, with the goal of advancing her nursing certification.
From Student to Mentor
Kang’s experience in UNM’s nursing program strengthened her nursing skills and broadened her understanding of health care education. Returning to South Korea, she was determined to inspire other students.
“Many of my students want to become nurses or work in health care,” Kang said. “When Emily visited, I asked if they’d like to meet her, and they were thrilled. The school principal and my colleagues also welcomed her, making it a meaningful moment for everyone.”
Though they were both students at the College of Nursing, Butler considered Kang an inspiration – someone whose experience and perspective helped her navigate the path to becoming a nurse.
“I want aspiring nurses to know it’s possible to become a nurse, but it can be daunting,” Butler said. “Having a friend like Jihea makes the process much more achievable. She always encouraged me and believed I could do it. She’s a big reason I’m here today.”
For Kang, global connections matter. Her journey from student to mentor has deepened her commitment to education.
“Teaching high school students can be intimidating, but it has been rewarding,” she said. “This year, several of my students applied to nursing schools. I focused on their academic records because my class grades and comments affected their admissions. I’m proud that all my students passed the first stage of their applications.”
This spring, Kang will graduate from UNM’s RN-to-BSN program, marking a significant milestone in her nursing journey. She hopes to use her skills to work with underserved communities.
“The RN-to-BSN program creates community, fellowship and understanding of social determinants of health globally,” said Victoria Yu, DNP, JD, RN, UNM’s RN-to-BSN program director. “Emily and Jihea’s story illustrates the worldwide value of the online program. It is exciting to see strong relationships be created in nursing globally.”
As the world becomes more connected, UNM College of Nursing continues to foster these important relationships. Nursing is more than a profession. It’s a shared language of care and lifelong learning.
Interested in the UNM College of Nursing’s RN to BSN program? Click here to learn more about the curriculum and how to apply.
