Cat Kelly

Choosing Surrey 

I came to Surrey through Clearing so had never actually visited the university. When I arrived, it instantly felt like home. The supportive community environment helped me settle in incredibly quickly.  

My Foundation Year experience 

I chose to do the Nursing foundation year as I did not quite achieve the grades needed for the main course. However, there are many different reasons for doing a foundation year, such as being out of education for a while, having a lack of confidence or finding written assignments challenging.  

It has been so beneficial. I have gone into the first year of my Adult Nursing BSc with so much knowledge, a newfound confidence and the ability to support other students in my cohort. It has allowed me improve my academic writing skills so they are at university level, increase my knowledge on anatomy and physiology, and be more aware of what it is to be a nurse.  

Without the foundation year I wouldn’t have had the confidence to work in the Clinical Simulation Centre with the actors, plan and write assignments or prepare and make notes in lectures.  

I am also one of the course reps for my programme and the fact I've taken the foundation year puts me in a unique position to help my course mates. This is because I understand the challenges students may face whilst at university so I’m in a stronger position to help them as well as pass on any feedback that they have. 

"I love the fact that we all have a passion for healthcare. It is such a privilege to study alongside people who all possess the qualities to care for others."

My course 

I love how practical the learning on my course is. Having the Clinical Simulation Centre is amazing because it means that we can practise clinical skills in an environment that feels very realistic. The Kate Granger Building is dedicated to health sciences students so you’re surrounded by people who are studying the same or a similar course which is lovely.  

I also love the fact that we all have a passion for healthcare. It is such a privilege to study alongside people who all possess the qualities to care for others.  

Life at Surrey 

I am part of the Nursing Society (NurSoc) and the Musical Theatre Society. Being in NurSoc has allowed me to meet nurses in other years as well as from different fields. This is really valuable as they understand what you are going through and have great advice which they are always happy to share. 

The Musical Theatre Society is filled with some of the most incredibly talented and hard-working individuals who all have a passion for performing. It is a great place for me to socialise away from my studies and make friends with people from a variety of courses. 

Although the location, beautiful campuses and great social life are all draws at Surrey, I think the best thing is the people. Having a really good group of course mates, housemates and friends has made my time at university so far so enjoyable.  

Find out more about our foundation year courses and our Adult Nursing BSc.