Saving Lives - Tobenna's UPIC Story
" It has been a great experience so far. My first placement opened my eyes to so many different aspects of Nursing."
An Interview with Tobenna | BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing
Snapshot
Country: Nigeria
Foundation course: Health and Human Sciences
Progressing to: BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing
When did you first decide you wanted to study Nursing?
It was when I was in Grade 10 that I decided I wanted to be a Nurse. Since then, it’s something I’ve always wanted to do. I was inspired by my Auntie and my Grandmother, they were both Nurses.
What made you choose the UK?
The UK has a really good educational system. I had heard a lot of positive things about studying in the UK, so it was an easy choice.
What made you choose Plymouth?
Initially, I didn’t know much about Plymouth. My agency recommended it and then I did my research. I realised that it is not a large city, and I felt that this was beneficial to me, the environment looked really safe, nice and friendly.
What was it like when you first arrived in the UK?
I had been to the UK two times before with my Dad, however I had not been to Plymouth before. I had heard that it had the reputation of ‘Britain’s Ocean City’, and my first experience was really good.
How did the International College help you settle in?
Settling in with UPIC was quite easy for me, I didn’t find the Foundation course too complicated. I was able to arrange my accommodation through the website and was able to have time to settle in to life in Plymouth.
What is your chosen Nursing specialism and why?
Like Victor, I also chose Adult Nursing. I opted for this specialism because I feel there is a greater range of opportunities, there is a big difference between helping an 18-year-old and an 80-year-old, and I like this wide scope.
If you had to pick three words to describe your experience so far, what would they be and why?
Eye-opening – It has been a great experience so far. My first placement opened my eyes to so many different aspects of Nursing.
Demanding – It has also been demanding. Balancing early mornings, work placements and coursework means you always have to be on your toes. But my last point makes it all worth it…
Rewarding – You get to see different kinds of things every single day and help people when they need it most. I really enjoy what I do and when I graduate, I will have so many career opportunities.
What do you plan to do after your degree?
When I graduate, I’d like to be a Theatre Nurse, also known as a Scrub Nurse in the profession. After the course, I’m not sure what my plans are. I want to go home and help people in Nigeria, but equally I am happy to stay in the UK if the opportunity arises.
If you had one piece of advice to give international students thinking of studying Nursing in the UK, what would it be and why?
Nursing in the UK is really good; I’d advise any prospective student to come. It’s important to do research before leaving home and have an idea of what to expect.