Hello everyone! My name is Gabby Barresi and I just finished my first year in the School of Nursing at the University of Pittsburgh. I am very excited to leave my hometown, Phillipsburg, New Jersey, to spend the next 2 weeks in Buenos Aires, Argentina! During my time at Pitt, I’ve joined a few clubs such as Project Sunshine, Nursing Students Association, and PACT (Pittsburgh Attacks Cancer Together). Outside of class, I love baking, trying new foods, and hanging out with my friends. For the rest of my time at Pitt, I hope to make new friends, join more clubs, and explore the city! After my schooling, I intend to work for a year or two to gain professional nursing experience and then further my education by attending Pitt’s graduate nursing program to become a nurse practitioner. 

This summer, I am thrilled to be taking part in the Plus3 program in Buenos Aires, Argentina. During one of our first year seminar lectures, in the nursing school, we learnt about the Plus3 program and I was hooked immediately! Buenos Aires was my first choice of location for this program due to its beautiful vibrant city and world-famous meals, which I am definitely excited to explore and try! 

During this program I will gain first-hand knowledge of the impacts of globalization on the delivering, financing, and managing of healthcare in a middle-income country. I will also learn the effects of global burden of disease, of determinants of health, and of health and economic inequalities on the unique healthcare system of Argentina. I hope this experience challenges me to get out of my comfort zone and further my skills necessary to work effectively with a group. Professionally, gaining first-hand experience with the Argentine healthcare system, I will be able to deepen my understanding of the delivery of healthcare in a middle-income country which will make me a more culturally aware leader in the future. All in all, I am beyond excited to embark on this unique study abroad trip!

-Gabby