What is one thing everyone should know about nurses?
I have never met a nurse or student nurse that was not passionate about caring for their patients or for others. I have learned that this passion is shown in so many ways, depending on the strengths that a great nurse has. Whether that is being at the bedside, teaching others, being a people person, focusing on the patients’ medical care or conducting research. Despite long hours, going above and beyond, and often being at the forefront of patient care, I think it takes a lot for a nurse to stop caring about what they do.
What's your favourite thing about your course?
My favourite thing about my Child Nursing degree is the different soft and clinical skills that I have learned, not just through lecturers and placement, but also through other students in my cohort. It is amazing how diverse my cohort is and the different reasons why students have chosen to study nursing.
What do you do to switch off from your course?
I switch off from my course by meeting friends who have nothing to do with healthcare, volunteering or working, in university services or going to the theatre. I also love to read and write about fictional books.
Why do you want to work as a nurse?
I always wanted to work in paediatrics because I believe every child deserves the best chance in life, and I wanted to be a part of that. Coming to the end of this course, that viewpoint has not changed. Nursing has exposed me to so many opportunities in healthcare that I cannot wait to explore.
Describe your role as the Student Inclusive Education Partner and what this entails…
As Inclusive Education Student Partner, I collaborate with staff and students in the Faculty and engage with projects that are being developed to improve the inclusivity of students from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds. Fortunately, in this role, there is quite a lot of independence, and every task is different. This can vary from communicating different projects to students, to having a say in how projects are delivered. I also get the opportunity to meet with Inclusive Education Student Partners across different faculties.
My favourite thing about being a Student Representative is...
My favourite thing about being a Student Representative is working with a range of students and departments in the Faculty. Over the last three years, it has become so apparent how much students care about nursing, midwifery and palliative care and how much they simply want to learn and make all students feel welcomed at King’s. I also see how the staff in the Faculty are trying to make learning as engaging as possible, whilst also considering the wellbeing of students.
I chose to study at King's because...
I’ve stayed in London my whole life, but going to King’s made me realise how beautiful this city really is in terms of cultural and social diversity. I wanted to be a part of a community within London where I could be part of a diverse social and academic life.
My proudest achievement at King’s has been…
My proudest achievement at King’s is not necessarily one thing, but everything that has led to my happiness. I find happiness in serving others, meeting different people and learning something new every day.
Right now, my biggest wish is…
Right now, my biggest wish is to continue making an impact on other people’s lives as much as they have made an impact on mine.
If I could meet my future self, I’d expect them to be…
I would expect my future self to be confident enough in my beliefs, knowledgeable enough to consult others and connected with a successful and caring community.
What advice would you give to future nursing students at the Faculty?
One piece of advice I would give to future nursing students is not to limit yourself or let anyone make you feel small. Your role in healthcare is valuable so make sure everyone knows that. Take charge and become confident with your learning, opportunities, networks and your happiness within and outside of healthcare.