In 2020, The partnership between The College of St. Scholastica (CSS) in Duluth, Minnesota, and Mary Johnston Hospital (MJH) in Tondo, Manila, represents collaboration of two respected institution in health care. In a recent Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), this partnership recently covered the entire school of health professions thus, expanding inter professional collaboration, bringing together students from among the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Post Baccalaureate Nursing (PBN), Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs.
The Capstone Experience
For CSS students, the “Philippines Capstone” is more than a rotation; it demonstrates social responsibility and advocacy, while serving as a deep understanding of cultural awareness, and health care culture practices. Exposure to these diverse environments transforms theoretical concepts into practical wisdom, preparing students to lead with cultural awareness and professional integrity. They have also invaluable opportunity to transcend traditional clinical boundaries and analyze healthcare delivery through an international framework.
Nursing students rotated through the various nursing units, including the recently opened Pediatric Oncology Ward, one of the first in a private mission hospital, while the Physical Therapy (PT) students were deployed to the PT clinic of the hospital which has a history known for serving the communities of Tondo, Manila. On the other hand, DNP Students had the opportunity to immerse along with Medical Residents and Interns to gain a transformative cultural perspective that empowers them to provide inclusive, confident care to patients across a wide perspective of diverse experiences.
A significant recent development is the integration of DPT students alongside BSN students. This allows a collaborative approach to patient care, where nursing and physical therapy students develop responsible and meaningful transcultural health care practice in patients, reflecting the “Wesleyan Health System” philosophy of Mary Johnston Hospital: a holistic approach to body, mind, and spirit.
“I have been able to better understand how culture and healthcare systems influence the way care is delivered and experienced by patients. It provided insight on the importance of cultural awareness and adaptability in providing effective and respectful healthcare.” –Carissa (CSS DPT Student)
Beyond the hospital walls, students were engaged in community outreach in a nearby Barangay in Tondo and a Non-Government Organization by a Private Individual who happened to be a retired nurse as a way of giving back in the Community in Pampanga, running their own free clinic for the Aeta Community, experiencing “Healing Together” by participating in public health initiatives.
“My biggest takeaway from my time in the Philippines is how powerful service can be when people commit themselves to serving others. I saw firsthand how it strengthens patient care, uplift the community, and teaches everyone involved the value of serving along the way.” –Megan (CSS DNP Student)
As the 2026 Philippine Capstone concluded, the bridge between Duluth and Tondo stood stronger than ever. This inter-professional journey serves as a reminder that when they step outside of their comfort zones and into the lives of others, they don’t just become better nurses, nurse practitioners and therapists—they become better future health care providers.
“After getting to experience the Philippines these past few weeks I have learned so much. My main takeaway is how much community can mean, not only for the patients, but me as a nurse.” –Piper (CSS BSN Student)
