Gayle Knowles - BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult Health)
Gayle's journey at the University of Plymouth Exeter School of Nursing
Name: Gayle Knowles
Course: BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult Health)
Location: The Exeter School of Nursing
"I have always found the clinical skills sessions an enjoyable part of the course. Putting theory into practice in the clinical simulation labs was not only fun but really helped when using the required skills out on placement."
Studying at The Exeter School of Nursing
"I would recommend the University of Plymouth course in Exeter as it has a lot to offer students. The site has great facilities including a café, computer suites, clinical simulation labs, lecture suite, and student kitchen. Exeter School of Nursing also has lecturers and admin staff on the site to support students.
The site is ideal for those who live in Exeter and surrounding areas, and those who are caring for family. I have 4 children so studying at Exeter has enabled me to study alongside looking after my family, and the Exeter School of Nursing site is significantly closer to my home address than Plymouth, which has made a considerable difference on travel time."
Focus on skills
"I have had placements on a general medical ward, gynaecology outpatients, orthopaedic trauma, haematology, district nursing, care of the older adult acute medicine. These placements have varied in their specialities and have all helped me increase my skills and development. Having such a variety has also enabled me to make decisions in which career path I would like to take once qualified.
So far, I have gained many academic and practical skills from my course. But more importantly the course has highlighted to me the kind of nurse I want to be, giving me the confidence to believe in myself."
Support at every stage
"I have been very fortunate to have some very inspiring mentors and lecturers throughout my nurse training. Working with nurses and mentors who are passionate about nursing and want to encourage you to learn and develop has had a great impact on my learning experience. Equally the enthusiasm and support that lecturers have provided has enhanced my learning."
I was in your position 3 years ago and at your stage I expect your experiencing excitement, anxiety and perhaps question if you can do the course. I am a mature student and after retaking my maths GCSE and attending an access course I applied to do my nursing degree with the University of Plymouth. I am nearly at the end of the nursing course and I have come this far with 4 children and many other hurdles along the way. It is an amazing journey and I can’t wait to become a registered nurse. Believe in yourself and before you know it you too will be qualifying as a registered nurse.
Gayle Knowles - BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult)
Inspired by this story?
For more information about studying nursing, please visit our BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult Health) page.
For more information about our range of health courses within the School of Nursing and Midwifery, please visit the school page.
