Samantha Bulley – BSc (Hons) Nursing (Adult) graduate

“My knowledge was extended and I learned many skills throughout the degree and during my placements, which have helped me in my career.”

Since completing my studies, I have moved to London with my friend who also graduated in nursing with me. We are sharing a flat in nursing accommodation and are settling into London life. I have started my first nursing post on an 18-month rotation at Guys and St Thomas Hospital, which consists of six months on three different wards.

Has your career path changed since graduation?

No, I was offered a post before graduating at Guys and St Thomas Hospital. I moved to London at the end of September and started my induction the first week of October. When I qualified as a nurse, I knew that it was the career I wanted. I would like to do a masters in forensic nursing in the future, once I have completed my rotation.

What is the most difficult thing which you have faced in your career?

The transition from student nurse to registered nurse, whilst moving hospital trusts. I feel that it was a lot to adapt to when I first qualified, but now I feel that I have settled in more and I have adjusted to my new place of work. However, I still have a lot to learn.

What is the best, most exciting or fun thing that you have done in your career?

I feel that moving to London and starting my career in a new hospital was exciting and also a good move. It took a bit of getting used to in a new hospital, but I am more settled now and I love London: there's so much to do! I am also glad that I picked a rotational post as it is an exciting opportunity to move to a new specialty every six months.

What, if anything, would you do differently if you could?

I would probably prioritise my time better; I never used to start essays late but I would take too many days off or breaks from writing my essays. Therefore, I would be still writing on the day the essay was due. I would also try not to stress when due dates were approaching for essays and exams.

What advice would you give to anyone wanting to get into the same line of work?

I would advise anyone doing a nursing course to make sure they socialise and visit friends and family. It is an intense course and if I did not have friends around it would have been even harder to get through. I found a good day or night out or getting away for a few days always helped.

How did studying at Plymouth help you?

It helped me to develop my skills to become an independent person. My knowledge was extended and I learned many skills throughout the degree and during my placements, which have helped me in my career.

What is your favourite memory of studying at Plymouth?

I loved being a first-year student: everything was so new and exciting, I met some amazing friends and I was just starting the degree for my chosen career. I feel like university went way too fast and I wish I had appreciated it more at the time, as I miss university already.

Do you stay in touch with other University of Plymouth alumni or lecturers?

I have been busy ever since I graduated, but plan to stay in touch with the care leavers support service. I appreciate all the help and support they provided me with throughout university.

Would you recommend undertaking a course with the University of Plymouth, and why?

Yes, the University of Plymouth has helped me to gain a degree in my life long career. There is support available to help students during their studies. I have met some lifelong friends at the University of Plymouth, with whom I will stay in contact.

Is there anything else which you would like to share with our current students?

Speak to your friends or lecturers if you need help. My friends and I always used to get together and help each other revise, and if we had any issues would speak to each other about them and help each other deal with them: even if it was just getting out for the day.