International Nursing Student Network

The WVU School of Nursing is launching an International Nursing Student Network (INSN) to support the unique needs of the international nursing student population, such as connection with their peers and faculty members, as well as referral to on-campus and community resources.

Led by Coordinator of Global Programs Dana Friend and Clinical Education Assistant Professor Gina Greathouse, the network will officially launch in Spring 2026. In-person meetings will be held three times per semester for students to connect with one another and their faculty advisors.

“Our international students sometimes need more support when integrating into the culture and finding a sense of belonging,” said Dr. Tina Antill Keener, Director of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program. “We wanted to create the INSN to help international students build a sense of community and to establish faculty liaisons to provide support as needed.”

Keener noted the unique needs of students from the Arellano University-International Nursing Program. Through the 3+1 partnership, students will complete their first three years of the WVU School of Nursing’s BSN curriculum in the Philippines, then transfer to the Morgantown Campus to complete their final year of the program.

For example, many of these students have never experienced a winter season, so something as simple as providing them with a checklist of winter clothing needs can be especially helpful.

Membership is open to all international nursing students, and participation is optional. Together, the INSN aims to create a safe space for community-building, to establish as sense of belonging, and to identify any personal or academic needs of the students.

Learn More

For more information, please email dfriend@hsc.wvu.edu or gina.greathouse@hsc.wvu.edu.