Sonna
"I recently began my role as a District Nurse Team Leader, where my focus is on fostering a cohesive, motivated team while enhancing my leadership and management skills."
Why did you choose to study your course at Surrey?
I chose to study at the University of Surrey because of its strong academic reputation and the high quality of its course content, which closely aligns with my career goals. As a mother of two young boys, I was particularly drawn to a programme that combined theoretical knowledge with practical skills, helping me prepare for professional success while allowing me to balance family responsibilities.
The University’s location was also ideal, being close to both my home and workplace. This allowed me to manage my studies alongside my personal and professional commitments, demonstrating resilience and dedication to my academic development.
Overall, the University of Surrey’s reputation, relevant course content, and convenient location made it the best choice to support my ambition of gaining higher qualifications and advancing my career.
What are the best things about Surrey and your course?
For me personally it was the campus facilities, the approachable and helpful staff, and the option to bring my children to the Library, that stood out and left a lasting impression. The University fosters a supportive environment that builds confidence, encourages resilience, personal development, and growth. The environment, the broad experience of the lecturers and plentiful collaborations with external professionals and specialists in the field made learning a very enjoyable, inspirational and satisfying experience.
"As someone who enjoys outdoor activities, I particularly appreciated the lakes and walking paths on campus, which provide many peaceful spaces to relax and recharge between lectures."
What are the best things about life here as a postgraduate student?
I had plenty of opportunities to network and build lasting professional connections with fellow students from various backgrounds and from all over the country, sharing experiences and diverse perspectives.
As someone who enjoys outdoor activities, I particularly appreciated the lake and walking paths on campus, which provide many peaceful spaces to relax and recharge between lectures.
Attending sessions of inspirational guest speakers and lecturers broadened my understanding of best practices in nursing and strengthened my professional confidence.
What are your career plans?
I recently began my role as a District Nurse Team Leader, where my focus is on fostering a cohesive, motivated team while enhancing my leadership and management skills, including operational oversight.
Over the next year, I plan to complete the Specialist Practice Nursing (Top Up) MSc at Surrey, exploring a topic for my dissertation project that will hopefully contribute to evidence-based practice in district nursing.
My long-term goal is to grow within my current organisation, influencing service delivery, policy, and innovation while advocating for patient-centred care and supporting workforce development.
What advice do you have for students thinking of doing this course?
I would advise students considering this course to be prepared for the academic and professional commitment it requires. Strong time management skills, organisational qualities, and resilience are essential, especially when balancing study with clinical and personal responsibilities.
Actively engaging with learning opportunities, seeking advice and support from lecturers and assessors, as well as regular reflection on practice, will help develop confidence, leadership skills, and autonomous decision-making.
As a recent graduate and a mother of two, I have found that perseverance and adaptability are key to succeeding in this demanding but highly rewarding course. It provides a strong foundation for advanced practice and future career development.
