News: ​“I couldn’t aspire to be anything better than a nurse”

The caring profession has been one that Emily, from Cotgrave, has been drawn to throughout her life, working in various roles since leaving school — from a children’s nursery to a residential care home, and from charity work to training to become a pharmacy assistant, but it was her role at a children’s hospice, Little Havens, that really struck a chord. This made her realise nursing was the career she wanted to pursue.

Emily didn’t have the grades to progress to university so enrolled at Nottingham College to study the Access to HE Nursing and Midwifery course. 

She said: ​“When I was younger, I wasn’t ready for college or university; it’s my life experiences like having my two daughters, traveling, the people I’ve met and the jobs I’ve had over the years which has led me to where I am today. 

“The Access to Nursing and Midwifery course at Nottingham College was the perfect fit for me and my family. The year-long course is intense and challenging but it’s worth it to know that it’s getting me a step closer to a job I’m passionate about. I’ve received a conditional offer at The University of Nottingham which I’m hoping to accept – I just need to get the grades! 

“I think mature learners can be put off and feel like they’ve missed their opportunity to train at college or university, but the course has completely transformed my life. I’m able to do a lot of remote learning, but with the continued support of my lecturers, which means I can be present for my children, whilst also working towards something I really love. 

“Nursing can give refreshing new challenges every day. You experience the good, the bad, and all of the in-between – there’s nothing more rewarding than that, and I want to be part of it! 

“With everything that’s going on across the world right now I just wish I was qualified already! There are no words to describe how brave, hard-working, selfless and admirable all the healthcare workers are. I couldn’t aspire to be anything better. 

“To anyone thinking about training to become a nurse, I would say go for it! Disregard any previous grades, don’t doubt yourself, work hard and you’ll never look back. This course has taught me so much about myself and I’ve made such a great group of friends.”