Nursing Personal Statement

Nursing is a profession I have always looked upon with utmost respect and believe that nursing is more than a profession; it is a life-long learning process. My ambition to be a nurse established at an early age and developed further when working in the healthcare industry caring for patients with mental health difficulties, vulnerable young adults, elderly and many with different conditions. My understanding of nursing is that it is a very diverse area. I believe the role of a nurse is to help the patient understand their condition, to provide reassurance and to respond to personal needs with relevant treatments in a non-judgmental manner and to respect equality. I understand that this is a complex role and at times will most definitely be
challenging. However, I'm confident that this chosen course will provide me with the skills and knowledge needed to fulfil my ambition.

My desire to take a nursing course was established after my first work placement working as a Care Worker.
During my time as a Care Worker, I enjoyed talking to and caring for people who required support in their day-to-day life. The work experience gave me the insight to recognise my talent of providing comfort to people who may be feeling anxious or confused or who need help to function throughout the day and I think this is an important skill to have as a nurse. My second work experience was as a Support Worker for young vulnerable adults and people with mental health difficulties. The service users in treatment had various conditions and needs, and I learnt how to balance their needs and meet them, which demonstrated my use of initiative. There can be patients whom struggle to understand their state of mind, this may be because they are scared of the accepting the reality of having a problem or it could be the stigma attached to having such mental illness or in some cases considered a taboo in this society. I believe that part of my chosen career would be to communicate with individuals, as well as their families and others close to them. I understand that this is a complex role and at times will most definitely be
challenging.

Whilst being out of education my desire to become a nurse has been enhanced further by working in various healthcare roles one in particular as a Care Coordinator.
The experience offered the prospect to work as part of a team and individually. I understand the importance of working under strict health and safety conditions and procedures. In this setting, it was essential to be patient, methodical and well organised. It required good written and verbal communication when report writing and dealing with staff and clients. It enabled me to build close working relationships within the workplace attaining the skill to handle complex and sensitive information, proving the ability to be a reliable and trustworthy individual. It demonstrates I can handle difficult situations effectively and with confidence and have learnt to adapt my manner. I apprehend the importance of patient confidentiality and how to handle the situation when presented with sensitive information. I thrive working under pressure and the challenge to work under pressure brings the best out in me. It is wholly satisfying to be able to treat people and reassure or support them when they are in need. One of my roles as a Care coordinator required managing a team of people. I developed skills in management, team building, training, presentation and the importance to follow instructions given to me by a senior member of staff. I am able to organise and prioritise my work without supervision and can also work well
within a group environment. I am adaptable and respond positively to new tasks. I am positive that these skills would be of benefit to me whilst training and working as a nurse.

The nursing degree is a mixture of work placement study and theory based learning which I have found over the last few years' suits my style of learning. I find immense satisfaction working with people of all backgrounds and my work experience has given me the chance to meet people from all works of life, develop excellent communication skills, to be patient and understanding. When working as a Customer Service Assistant in a retail environment, I learnt to appreciate people as individuals and enhanced my listening skills when trying to resolve any customer queries and issues. I recognise nursing is a challenging profession to enter because nurses must have the ability to make decisions, show compassion, commitment and support the diverse needs of individuals in their care. The course along with the profession will test my skills and abilities and I am confident that I can meet these challenges.

Nurses make a difference every day and I am eager to pursue a career where I can make a real and tangible difference. I know that the job is tough and at times emotional and challenging but I also know that it will bring great personal satisfaction as I will be able to support and care for patients and their family. I want the opportunity to offer the same high standard of care, support, knowledge and skill that I have witnessed by health professionals whom I have admired and worked alongside throughout my work experience.

Finally, many would presume that it is late to start such a career in nursing. However, I feel otherwise as my experience and skills are invaluable and can be transferred while working as a nurse. Further, I am a dedicated, determine and a hardworking individual who has hopes in succeeding in their chosen career path. I aspire to achieve my goals and develop my knowledge and skills and believe this course will significantly aid me to achieve this goal. My work experience combined with my commitment and enthusiasm will ensure my success within your University. I look forward to the opportunity to fulfil this ambition.