Eloise

Choosing Surrey

When I visited Surrey with my parents, I instantly felt at home. There are great sports facilities available here and a huge range of clubs and societies to get involved in which was something I was looking for. 

My course

I have always loved helping and looking after people, so nursing made complete sense to me as a career.  

The foundation year for nursing allowed me to grow and develop my skills, particularly my writing skills. This set me up perfectly for progressing to the Adult Nursing BSc and working on my dissertation.  

I loved using the Clinical Simulation Centre for my learning. It allows you to practise your skills before being thrown in the deep end when you’re on placement, through using mannikins and interacting with actors in simulated scenarios. I enjoyed it so much I ended up helping to teach first-year students in my second and final years. 

"Realising the impact you can have on people’s lives through healthcare, even as a student nurse, has been amazing." 

Gaining clinical experience

During the foundation year, we had the opportunity to work with a local charity within our chosen field of nursing. I volunteered for Artventure, which support adults with learning disabilities, physical impairments or autism to be creative and express themselves through art. I was able to assist with people creating their artwork and even be a little creative myself. 

During my nursing course, I’ve been able to work in a huge range of clinical areas, seeing patients arrive in the hospital and following them into surgery and then recovery; I’ve spent time on wards and in intensive care, minor injuries and hospice care, and delivered care in patients’ own homes. I also completed two shifts in a delivery suite and assisted with welcoming three healthy babies into the world, but it wasn’t enough to convince me to do midwifery! 

Realising the impact you can have on people’s lives through healthcare, even as a student nurse, has been amazing. 

My elective placement

I did a month-long elective placement in south-west Wales, working with the community and in hospital in learning disabilities nursing teams. As part of this, I spent time with the Welsh government looking into the frameworks and policies surrounding care for young people with learning disabilities who are transitioning between child and adult services.  

Clubs and societies

Throughout my time at Surrey, I’ve been a member of the Nursing Society, Yoga Society, Trampolining Club, Touch Rugby Club and Women’s Rugby Club. I was also vice president and president of the Surrey Dodgeball Society - I joined in first year and never looked back! 

Being involved in these clubs and societies has been an incredible experience. I’ve met so many new people and create lifelong friendships. My university experience wouldn't have been the same without it.  

My advice

I have had an amazing four years at Surrey. If I had to pass on one piece of advice it would be to get stuck in, don’t be shy and don’t worry about other people’s opinions of you. Jump into anything you want to with full force and enjoy your university experience.  

My Surrey experience in three words...

Whirlwind, adventure, growth.