Connecting Continents Through Care: Medici di Makati College Welcomed French Nursing Interns
Medici di Makati College proudly marked a significant milestone in its commitment to global healthcare education as it welcomed its first cohort of student nurse interns from Valence, France for a five-week clinical immersion program in the Philippines.
This pioneering initiative was the result of a formal academic partnership between Medici di Makati College and the French Red Cross (Croix-Rouge Française), which offers its Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in collaboration with the University of Grenoble Alpes. The program reflected a shared vision of advancing nursing education through international collaboration, cultural exchange, and clinical excellence.
To formally welcome the French delegation, a luncheon was hosted by Medici College Chief Executive Officer Dr. Emmanuel Doy Santos. Joining him were Dean Ganimede Joya, Clinical Coordinator Assistant Professor Ann Orejudos, and Student Council President Ms. Faith Ubaldo. The gathering provided an opportunity to introduce the students to the Medici community and celebrate the beginning of a meaningful cross-cultural learning experience.
The visiting nursing interns—Giovana, Sarah, Elie, and Antoine—worked alongside MDMC student nurses under the guidance of experienced clinical instructors. Throughout the five-week program, they gained valuable hands-on experience in various healthcare settings, including:
• Sto. Niño Health Center, Tanay, Rizal
• Barangay Palanan Community Health Center, Makati City
• Ospital ng Makati
• Makati Medical Center (Observationship)
These clinical placements provided the interns with firsthand exposure to the Philippine healthcare system, allowing them to engage with diverse patient populations and develop a deeper understanding of community and hospital-based nursing practice.
Beyond clinical training, the program offered an opportunity to experience the unique qualities that define Filipino healthcare—professional competence, resilience, compassion, and patient-centered care. Through interactions with healthcare professionals, fellow students, and local communities, the interns gained insights that extended far beyond the classroom and clinical setting.
Medici di Makati College extended its gratitude to its student nurses, faculty members, and the Student Council for creating a warm and welcoming environment for the international guests. Their efforts helped ensure that the interns began their journey feeling supported, valued, and at home.
As a global trendsetter in nursing and allied health education, Medici di Makati College viewed this partnership as the beginning of a long-term collaboration that would strengthen international academic ties and contribute to the development of future healthcare professionals worldwide.
The College was honored to welcome its French nursing interns to the MDMC family and looked forward to continuing this meaningful partnership in the years ahead.
