Case Study

Before coming to study for the BSc (Hons) Children's and Adult's Nursing Practice course at Sunderland, I was a primary school teacher. I always wanted a meaningful career, but never felt teaching fitted me, and I knew I wanted to become a nurse. Leaving teaching to pursue a career in nursing was a huge leap of faith but the best move I’ve ever made.

I knew I wanted to study at a modern university with strong links to local health services and good on-campus facilities. As a single parent, being able to commute from home was also essential. When I came along for my interview, the staff at Sunderland were really friendly and knowledgeable with just the right amount of toughness. That’s when I knew Sunderland was the place for me.

My favourite part of the course has got to be the placements. I love the mentorship I receive and the fact that our lecturers at the University notice us – they see us when we’re stressed out, they praise us when we triumph – they know us!

The one piece of advice I would give to someone thinking about studying nursing is to take it seriously! There’s no place here for people who aren’t prepared to act professionally and work hard. However, if you do both of those things, in return you’ll get support, a community, and professional experience.

After I graduate, I would love to work in an intensive care setting. I love the pace of this work and being at the forefront of medicine. I’ve been surprised by how much I’ve learnt in all the different settings I’ve worked in, and the fact that we get to see such a diverse range of practice definitely sets us apart from other universities. To sum up my time so far, I would say it’s been challenging, life-changing and worthwhile.”

Published 17 October 2023