Hannah Telling

Before coming to Wrexham University, I had just finished Sixth Form College. I studied BTEC Level 3’s in Diploma Healthcare and Child’s Play, Learning and Development. Picking these qualifications allowed me to have a deeper understanding of my degree later down the line in my nursing journey! During, my time at Sixth Form I was working part-time as a COVID-19 Administrator (for the NHS) and a Healthcare Assistant at a local care home.

After coming to one of Wrexham’s open days, and visiting the Mental Health Nursing lecturers, who explained to me the great opportunities Wrexham University has to offer when students go out on placement. I was keen to learn more about the university and what it has to offer. I attend a couple of open days and an Allied Health course ‘meet up’ day, as well as taking a quick tour around Wrexham Student Village accommodation. By the time it came to picking my 5 options for university, Wrexham was my top choice!

Nothing beats that feeling of being a first-year student during Fresher’s Week! As I moved away from home to start my university journey, I was incredibly nervous but excited, starting university is such a big change but it opens up so many avenues for my chosen career down the line!

The atmosphere in the Wrexham campus was very supportive in helping me feel settled during my first semester at the university. Including the ASK wellbeing services who are on hand for support and guidance. This warm atmosphere has continued during my degree and made me feel like a valued member of the university.

Studying for a degree can be incredibly tough, however, my favourite part of my course is how as the year goes on you get to know more people in your cohort. Making valuable friends along the way who support you.

The mixed method of teaching in nursing courses makes learning interactive and enjoyable, also being an added benefit! My favourite type of lectures are those when we are in the Simulation Suite, practising clinical skills.

As much as starting university can feel like you are empowering change and growth in your life, it can also be a scary process, it's a new start for all of us. Especially, if you are moving away from home. Things such as budgeting, cooking, and cleaning, are skills you develop along the way but sometimes it is handy to have some guidance and support.

Wrexham University has some amazing support and wellbeing services. The staff are incredibly friendly and approachable, and will often host workshops to educate students on how to support themselves at university.

The university also offers support from students such as myself who come from care-experienced backgrounds, they have bridged the gaps in my education and helped me overcome barriers to attending university that I may have experienced without their support.

Since starting my degree last year, I have met some absolutely lovely and supportive people, both through cohort/flatmates and staff who are on hand to support me through my course and student life in general.

Absolutely! If going to Wrexham University has taught me one thing, it is to step out of your comfort zone, try new things and take up any opportunity given to you! The University have a whole host of well-integrated support networks for students and so many opportunities to take up!