Gabriella S

What do you like about your course and why?

What I most enjoy about my course is the opportunity to undertake mental health nursing placements. I have been fortunate enough to gain experience in various aspects of mental health nursing including working in the community, specialist units and prison nursing. They have allowed me to gain practical experience and apply my knowledge in real-life settings.

On campus I particularly enjoy working in the University's simulated clinical areas, as they provide valuable hands-on experience that I might not otherwise have the opportunity to gain during placements. These simulation sessions allow me to practise physical health clinical skills in a safe and supportive environment. Participating in mental health scenarios has boosted my confidence in managing complex situations.

What do you enjoy most about Surrey?

I feel honoured to be learning in the Kate Granger Building and to be part of Kate Granger’s legacy within healthcare education. Attending a symposium where her husband Chris Pointon spoke about her life and work was a particularly meaningful experience. During the event, he shared the story behind the “Hello, my name is...” campaign and the impact it has had on improving compassionate communication in healthcare. Hearing about her dedication and values was both moving and inspirational.

I have little experience of campus life, being a mature student I commute from my home in Sussex that I share with my husband. However, I do volunteer for a student support service which allows me to spend a little time on site with my new likeminded friends.

"I would advise students to research potential finical support, NHS bursaries or scholarships that they may be entitled to. I am fortunate enough to be supported by the Ted Adams Trust Nursing Scholarship."

What are the highlights of clinical placement?

The highlight of my time at Surrey so far is my prison nursing placement. Working in a prison environment is very different from other healthcare settings, as it is high-risk and requires additional rules, boundaries, and procedures to be followed.

More than any other placement, working in a prison taught me the importance of balancing empathy with professional objectivity as a nurse. It challenged me to look beyond the offence or the environment and instead focus on the individual and their health needs. I have always had a particular interest in the concept of loss, but during this placement I gained a new understanding of what loss can mean in the context of liberty. Speaking with patients who had experienced the loss of freedom, connection with family, and everyday aspects of normal life deepened my appreciation of how profoundly these experiences can affect mental health and wellbeing. This insight has strengthened my commitment to providing compassionate, non-judgemental care to everyone I work with.

What do you want to do when you graduate?

When I graduate, I hope to work in a role that supports individuals experiencing bereavement, loss, and grief. Throughout my training, I have developed a strong interest in understanding how loss can shape people’s lives. This interest is also shaped by my own personal experience. In 2014, I experienced the tragic loss of my baby daughter, which profoundly changed my understanding of grief and the lasting impact it can have on individuals and families. While loss never truly leaves you, this experience has deepened my empathy and strengthened my desire to support others through some of the most challenging moments of their lives.

What advice would you give to students thinking of studying this course?

It may sound like a cliché, but my advice for prospective students would be "just go for it!" The University of Surrey has an outstanding reputation, the mental health lecturers are knowledgeable, supportive and approachable.

I would advise prospective students to research the entry requirements for university. I completed an access course for healthcare professionals at my local college and gained the appropriate grades to apply. 

The course is challenging at times, but there are student services for both wellbeing and academic support.

I would advise students to research potential finical support, NHS bursaries or scholarships that they may be entitled to. I am fortunate enough to be supported by the Ted Adams Trust Nursing Scholarship, I personally allocate this money to maintain my car and contribute towards fuel.

Lastly, I would encourage attending a Surrey Open Day to see the simulation suite and the Kate Granger Building, and use the opportunity to meet some of the faculty.

Find out more about our Mental Health Nursing BSc