University of Manchester 2025
We were inspired by previous Work the World students at our university who shared their fantastic stories and memories with us.
We had a desire to experience and understand a different culture firsthand and gain international work experience to enhance our skills and challenge us as individuals
The prospect of meeting new people was also so exciting!
The Work the World team, particularly the Iloilo Operations Manager, with whom we had our clinical interests and preparation call, was informative and helpful. The team left no room for concern or worry as they answered all queries promptly and reassuringly.
Our excitement was fuelled by the Work the World team's recommendations and top tips for travelling to the Philippines. Everyone we spoke to in preparation for our trip was lovely and patient with us.
The Work the World house was welcoming, warm, positive, and fun. The in-country team was so friendly and always happy to chat! There was a lot to do, from chilling out at the local swimming pool to watching TV and playing games. We recommend spending as much time as you can in the communal areas of the house.
The communal dinners were so lovely; everyone would sit down to eat together every night. There were also areas of the house where you could chill out and relax.
Living with other healthcare students was great, especially as we went through this unusual yet amazing experience together. You’ll make friends with those whom you can lean on through every moment.
Everyone in the house was so inviting—we always had an adventure with others during the weekends.
Throughout our trip, the in-country team at the Work the World house were so helpful, accommodating, and kind. We loved singing and dancing with the team during the karaoke nights. They always put on such a great show!
The role of the nurse in the Philippines was very different. They were far more task-oriented as there was less focus on compassion than back home in the UK. It often fell to the patient’s family to take on bedside care and personal hygiene.
Nurses in the Philippines have to work with a lack of resources. It was often a ratio of just three nurses to sixty patients! They were extremely hardworking and resilient, too.
One thing from our experience that will stick in our minds forever is watching our first natural birth on placement and seeing firsthand the resilience, strength and determination of the mothers — they are true superheroes.
We enjoyed socialising during the evenings after placement with other housemates, playing games and watching movies.
On the weekends, we visited many islands, including Guimaras, Boracay, Cebu, El Nido, and many more!
We enjoyed activities on each island, from canyoneering and swimming with whale sharks to exploring the underground river (one of the world's natural wonders).
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