Corina Cowland - BSc (Hons) Nursing (Mental Health)
Corina's journey at the University of Plymouth Exeter School of Nursing
Name: Corina Cowland
Course: BSc (Hons) Nursing (Mental Health)
Location: The Exeter School of Nursing
"I have always wanted to work in healthcare. I started as a health care assistant in a nursing home before working in an acute psychiatric unit. I have always wanted to become a nurse as I have the compassion and empathy for the people I look after."
Studying at The Exeter School of Nursing
Since starting my training I have always been based at the Exeter School of Nursing which is very convenient for me. This location has made travelling easy for me that has avoided the lengthy travelling times that many students face. It also has easy access in and out of Exeter with parking nearby. This campus provides a compacted site which helps to locate rooms and facilities much easier. There is a small café situated on site which is not costly and also has a reception where the staff are very friendly and happy to help with all enquires.
The placement aspect of nursing has always been the best part of my training. I have found it a joy working with many teams and seeing what they do. I have spent time within community and inpatient wards, where I have carried out assessments, and administered medications in both oral and injectable form.
Focus on skills
"I have acted as nurse in charge of a ward, taken lead of weekly ward rounds and worked closely with patients in developing collaborative care planning. Placements have allowed me to develop a range of nursing skills as well as build my confidence."
"In relation to my experience my highlights have been the practical side of the training such as placements and role play assessments. Placements can be difficult for some. My advice for anyone going into nursing is to drive yourself to be the best you can and seek to gain opportunities to widening your nursing experience."
"A huge part of nursing is to have the understanding of why we practice what we do and why we do it. In delivering the highest quality care us as nurses need to know the underpinning knowledge of evidence based practice."
Support at every stage
"Personally I am not an academic student, however the theory side of studying has allowed me to build on these skills whilst deepening my knowledge. At times I have found the theory side difficult but the university offer a great deal of support whether that be 1:1 tutor support or the local writing café where students can bring in their written pieces in and discuss them with a 3rd year student."
Inspired by this story?
For more information about studying nursing, please visit our BSc (Hons) Nursing (Mental Health) page.
For more information about our range of health courses within the School of Nursing and Midwifery, please visit the school page.
