Advice from first year student, Chelsea Taylor
Hey! My name’s Chelsea I am currently coming to the end of my first year of the BSc (Hons) Mental Health Nursing course at Birmingham City University (BCU).
Despite being excited to start university, I know the closer it gets the more the nerves start to kick in. I even withdrew my reply to the BCU’s offer at one point due to nerves and replied again the next day (not that I’m recommending you do this)! But now I’m on the course, I wouldn’t have it any other way and I am hoping this may help you feel the same.
The best discovery I have made since starting BCU:
The Academic Development Department (ADD) at University gave me the refreshers I needed on things such as maths and academic writing, but I also know they gave more thorough support to my colleagues who asked for it. There’s no pressure to go if you’re not struggling, but if you are, try not to postpone seeing the people at the ADD. They may help put your mind at ease and help you achieve the best marks you can.
My favourite thing about BCU:
One of my favourite things about BCU is the ASK desk located on campus. ASK is a one-stop shop for student services, from asking for directions to wanting to talk to someone if things are getting on top of you, it’s a great resource to utilise. Every contact I’ve had with the people there has been friendly and worthwhile.
What I love about the city:
Birmingham is known as a cultural melting pot. For me this means that despite living close to the city for a while I’m still spoilt for choice when it comes to food, my most recent fad being Herman the German in Grand Central and my go to comfort food being fish and chips from the Ocean fish bar. No matter what you’re feeling there’s always something to try. I also can’t forget the variety of quirky and homely bars and pubs around to explore and socialise in such as the Gin Vault or the student union bars such as the Eagle and ball (City Centre Campus) and the Social Kitchen (City South Campus).
My top tip for new student nurses:
One of the things I think many of us forget among the various deadlines and tasks is to take a break. Looking after yourself in your first year will really help to set you up for success for the future. As hard as it can be, try to make time for the things you enjoy as much as you make time for university – in addition, of course, to the things you may not enjoy but have to do, such as that pile of laundry or washing up! You’ll feel much better if the chores are done and you’ve made a bit of time to do something for yourself.
What I didn’t know before starting my course:
I was aware of the concept of clinical supervision but didn’t know that the University offers it – I actually didn’t know until my personal tutor invited me (so ask!). It can be a good place to ask questions and share positive experiences, but since not all placement or university experiences are positive, it can also be a good place to voice any concerns or any feelings resulting from an experience. Try not to bottle things up and remember to bring something positive to supervision if you can.
My uni essentials:
The flashcards sold at the campus shop are something I wish I had invested in earlier as they are affordable and will last – I revised a whole module and didn’t even use half a pack – bargain! My travel cup is one of my other essentials as it gives me money off by using my own cup when I buy a hot drink on campus. It also has the added bonus and no more plastic lids that don’t fit properly! These little things matter when you’re stressed and/or on a budget but still want to treat yourself.