In the relentless pursuit of cultivating globally competitive, empowered, and future-ready professionals, the University of Baguio continues to expand learning opportunities, proving that the entire world can be a classroom through various international opportunities. Providing students with a welcoming environment to embrace new challenges, immerse in a different culture, and maximize the opportunities offered through the BRIDGE USA Cultural Exchange Program.
Driven by the university’s commitment to internationalization. The objectives of the visit were to monitor the welfare and professional development of student delegates, strengthen international partnerships, and explore top-notch educational and healthcare institutions that supports UB’s vision of academic excellence. Having participated by esteemed management officials and academic leaders from the the School of Business Administration and Accountancy, School of Nursing, and School of Criminal Justice and Public Safety.
The international academic mobility visit across the Lone Star State in Texas, USA, focusing on monitoring the welfare and professional growth of students, strengthening international partnerships, and exploring world-class educational and healthcare institutions, as part of the ongoing efforts to identify exceptional J-1 Bridge USA placement opportunities that provide meaningful professional and cultural experiences for future student participants.
Leading in Mobility and Hands-on Exchange Within Horseshoe Bay Resort
The Texas academic mobility visit commenced at the renowned Horseshoe Bay Resort, one of the premier hospitality destinations in Texas, and the United States. Recognizing that a successful international experience extends beyond the workplace, the delegation also conducted a comprehensive tour of the student housing facilities. The visit allowed the team to assess the accommodations, safety measures, and overall living environment that will support future participants throughout their stay.
Mr. Mike Crane, Employment Manager, greeted the delegates with warmth and gave a thoughtful presentation on the resort’s operations, workplace culture, and the variety of educational opportunities offered by its J1 Cultural Exchange Program. Discussions emphasized the resort’s dedication to mentorship, cultural immersion, and professional development. With aspects that closely correspond with the institution’s goal of producing graduates who are globally competent and academically thriving.
The delegates found the facilities to be safe, comfortable, and conducive to both personal well-being and professional growth, providing students
With a welcoming environment, the academic delegates found the space conducive to both personal well-being and professional growth, where academic scholars can confidently embrace new challenges, immerse themselves in a different culture, and maximize the opportunities offered by the cultural exchange program.
Venturing off the next day in Texas, leaders from the university then proceeded to SeaWorld San Antonio, where J1 participants and interning students were currently designated. The team was warmly welcomed by Mr. Adam Loredo, Vice President of Human Resources at SeaWorld San Antonio, who personally hosted an exclusive behind the scenes tour of the park and shared valuable insights into its operations, organizational culture, and commitment to employee development.
One of the highlights of the visit was witnessing UB students excel in their respective assignments across the park. Whether providing exceptional guest experiences or supporting daily operations, the designated exchange students demonstrated professionalism, adaptability, and teamwork while upholding the values and standards of the University of Baguio. The visit also allowed the team to observe firsthand how students successfully balance demanding work responsibilities with independent living while embracing a new culture and environment.
Strengthening Nursing Excellence and Global Alliances with UT Health San Antonio
The academic segment of the Texas mobility initiative also commenced with a formal executive conference at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UT Health San Antonio) School of Nursing. Officially welcoming the academic and institutional delegates, Director of International Programs Dr. Danet Lapiz Bluhm, sat down alongside the vice president for academic affairs, Dr. Janice Kaylyn Lonogan, and Dr. Lisa Montoya, as they highlighted the academic profiles, milestones, and strategic visions of both the University of Baguio and UT Health San Antonio, with detailed institutional presentations through a scheduled conference.
Dr. Lixin Song, Vice Dean for Research, comprehensively introduced the institution’s premier research opportunities, paving the way for deep discussions on pioneering healthcare research, collaborative cross-border investigations, and scholarship development. This was paired alongside proposed bilateral student and faculty mobility programs designed to elevate nursing education and clinical research to global standards.
As a concrete outcome of these discussions, beginning in 2027, Summer Work and Travel (SWAT) program participants shall have the option to join a newly established Nursing Immersion Track. This specialized track will feature hands-on simulation laboratory training followed by a hospital observership at UT Health.
Following the opening presentations, the university representatives engaged in strategic discussions with UTH faculty to explore opportunities for future international collaboration, including academic partnerships, faculty and student mobility, and joint research initiatives.
Through a comprehensive tour of University Hospital, the team gained valuable exposure to advanced healthcare systems, patient-centered care models, clinical workflows, and innovative technologies supporting quality healthcare delivery. The visit concluded with a tour of University Hospital’s Neuro, Oncology, Trauma, and Labor units, offering the delegation direct, valuable insight into modern U.S. clinical practice standards.
Voices from Texas: The Bridge USA Experience
The visit provided an opportunity for the delegation to engage with the students and hear their reflections on how the Bridge USA Cultural Exchange Program has shaped their personal and professional growth.
“One of the best parts of this experience is meeting people from different cultures. I have been able to share Filipino hospitality while learning new perspectives from colleagues and guests around the world. It has broadened my understanding of global workplaces and inspired me to dream even bigger.”
— Camille Joyce Baucas (SON)
“Being away from home is never easy, but the friendships we have built and the unwavering support from the University have made all the difference. Knowing that our administrators personally visited us reminds us that UB genuinely cares about our welfare and success.”
— Allysa Ocampo (SON)
Adjusting to the new environment was relatively easy for me. Having lived independently in Baguio City, I was already accustomed to managing life on my own, which made the transition smoother. In addition, the support and encouragement I received from the people I lived with and my colleagues at work greatly helped me adapt to my new surroundings.
— Deanne Lebantino (SBAA)
“Our work does not feel burdensome because we genuinely enjoy what we do. Rather than allowing workplace pressures to overwhelm us, we regard our daily activities as opportunities for team bonding. As a result, we maintain a positive and enjoyable work environment most of the time.”
— Maxene Quisano (SBAA)
Alt Text: UB’s management and academic leaders alongside industry partner, Mr. Aaron Black (CEO, Zip Travel Phil.) Ms. Mary Jane de Guzman (Director of Programs, ZIP Travel Phil.), Ms. Marilou Wana (Staff, Zip Travel Phil.) and esteemed officials from the UT Health San Antonio School of Nursing
The experience provided meaningful insights and exchanges into best practices in hospital administration, nursing leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration. These exchange lessons will contribute to the ongoing enhancement of the university’s nursing and allied health curricula, alongside practical efforts and internships for administrative success.
Ensuring that UB graduates remain well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of healthcare and clerical practice, both locally and internationally, as endorsed through the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 16,and 17.
As the day ended with a fantastic opportunity for connection, the University of Baguio delegation met with key San Antonio community leaders, including the Cultural Team Committee and the PNA San Antonio, Texas, President. Continuing to engage in wonderful conversations and are thrilled about the potential for future collaborations and ventures! We can’t wait to see what the future holds for our dear students and faculty!
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Written by: Dr. Ruby Buccat; Ms. Zorenne Diwag
Article enhancement by Gabriel Madriaga
