“I hope to feel part of something bigger than my immediate world…”; the values and attitudes that motivate participation in a virtual international midwifery student experience

Students' motivation to participate in a virtual short-term international study experience included aspects of improving and enhancing their developing professional self, including compassion, in anticipation of supporting their career progression and the effectiveness of the care they deliver. The findings are relevant for academics and administrators involved in study abroad programs for ongoing improvement of quality cultural learning opportunities for health discipline students.