Emily Lacey

Choosing Surrey

On my first visit to Surrey, on an Open Day with my dad, we were both really impressed with the Clinical Simulation Centre and hadn't seen anything like it at other universities. I remember we walked out, sat down and I just said, "This is the one"! All the staff and students we spoke to on the day were very approachable, welcoming and answered all our questions. 

The best things about my course

Surrey offers a wide range of placement opportunities for children's nursing students, one of them being at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children in London, somewhere I've always dreamt of working. 

The simulation suite in the Health Sciences building is great. It includes two wards, an ambulance bay and a flat, and it’s all set up with the newest equipment and simulation dummies so you can practise your skills. We also have actors that come to our simulation sessions to act out a scenario. 

Career support

My personal tutor really supported me with my career aspirations. After doing multiple placements at Great Ormond Street Hospital, I knew I wanted to work there. I was offered support in writing applications and in preparing for interviews. 

50% of my course is clinical placements, so I’ve had a wide range of practical experience, including in paediatric A&E, a general children’s ward, community care, neonates, and four different speciality wards at Great Ormond Street. 

Surrey's Nursing Society

I joined the Nursing Society Committee in my first year and during my third year I was the Society President. We ran lots of different events for our nursing students, including wellbeing days. This helped me to meet lots of new people, make some new friends and just be part of the nursing community at Surrey. 

Looking to the future

I always wanted to work at Great Ormond Street Hospital as a qualified nurse – and now I will! It’s my dream job.

Find out more about our Nursing Studies (Registered Nurse Children and Young People Nursing) BSc.