Advice from first year student, Sarah Hodgson

Hi! I'm Sarah and I'm just completing my first year on BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing. Preparing to start uni is really exciting, but can be overwhelming too. I've shared my advice and tips to make your transition to uni life as smooth as possible and hopefully ease any anxieties you might have.

The best discovery I’ve made since starting the University

University can be a very stressful time so I’ve found it very beneficial to have a strong network of friends for support. You also get a lot of support from your personal tutor and lecturers, so if you are struggling, don’t hesitate to use the help that is there.

My favourite thing about BCU

There is a room called SPACE where you can practise your clinical skills. I have found it very useful prior to starting placement so I can improve these skills and feel more confident before going on placement.

What I love about the city

One of the best things about Birmingham is that there are lots of places to shop without having to go very far. There are also a lots of bars and restaurants right on your door step! One of the best places me and my friends have found to drink is at The Church Inn and The Button Factory, which are in the Jewellery Quarter; they both have fab beer gardens and a good drinks selection. The next one on our list is a secret bar under the Liquor Store Clothing shop in in the city centre – how cool!

My top tips for new student nurses

My top tip is to go over lectures and do the work as you get it, stay organised and don’t leave everything until last minute. Use your friends to help you revise for exams and all help each other.

What I didn’t know before starting my course

I have previously completed an undergraduate degree so I feel I knew what to expect from the academic aspect. However, I was not prepared for placement, although it is very rewarding and you learn a lot, it is very tiring doing 12-hour shifts. You need to make the most of it though, ask lots of questions and try and do pathways with other professionals, this way you get to see what happens within different aspects of a multi-disciplinary team. It’s also good to watch a patient’s journey through surgery, starting from pre-operative care, to watching the surgery and then their recovery.

My uni essentials

Don’t stress – get a diary and stay organised! This way you know what you’re doing and when. I also used my diary to write significant experiences from placement, which helped when completing my placement workbook. At the beginning of the year I also bought a stethoscope and cuff to practise taking my family and friends’ blood pressure. This really improved my confidence and helped for my practical exam.