Sean Taylor

How did you develop an interest in Nursing and why did you choose to study BSc Adult Nursing?

I am from a family of nurses and initially it wasn’t a career that I had considered. However, when I was exploring a career as a Health Advisor, I realised that I would be more suited to nursing, due to the wider range of opportunities available once qualified.

Why did you choose to study at City, University of London?

I chose City for a number or reasons – firstly, the second-to-none facilities that are on offer in terms of the clinical skills labs and secondly, due to the wide range of staff and their expertise. I also wanted to train in the heart of London and to be able to experience looking after a diverse population – so the relationships that City has with inner London trusts was another reason why I chose this University.

What has been a highlight on the course for yourself?

A highlight for me has been meeting so many amazing people – especially fellow students. I have made many friendships that I had no idea I would make.

Have you participated in any extracurricular activities at City?

Whilst at City I’ve been a student rep for my class – it’s a fantastic opportunity which helps add many skills to your CV, such as leadership. I’m passionate about improving the experience for students at City, and being a student rep enables me to do this.

What have you enjoyed most about your time at City?

Being part of such a special, diverse community and the support networks that this brings with it.

How have you found the teaching on your course?

The teaching has been outstanding – all of the lecturers are experts within their field of practice and it makes such a difference being taught by such knowledgeable staff. It really helps you understand topics, especially those that are trickier to get your head around. All the staff are also incredibly passionate too, which makes a huge difference.

How have you benefited from the facilities available at City?

Having the opportunity to really practice your clinical skills and to take part in Simulated Practice before you go out to practice on the wards is amazing. I felt so much more prepared for starting my placement having had the opportunity to practice these skills – practice that would have been impossible without the clinical skills labs.

Could you tell us about your placements?

So far I’ve completed two placements – 12 weeks on a Trauma and Orthopaedic ward and 5 weeks on a Neuro medical ward. I had the most amazing time on placement on the Trauma and Orthopaedic ward – my mentor really got behind me and supported me, which really set me up for my next placements. I also had the opportunity to spend a day in theatre and shadow other healthcare professionals, such as physios and occupational therapists. All these opportunities are combined to make you understand the whole patient journey and what it is they’re going through, and their needs. It’s really important to understand the holistic patient environment so that you can provide the best possible care.

I’ve loved every minute of caring and looking after patients, but also getting to know them as people and their families. The most challenging part of my studies so far has been my time spent on placement on the Neuro Medical ward. I learnt so much whilst being there – but it was a much quieter and slower-paced ward, something that I’m not used to at all!

How will your placements help you with your future career?

Having such a wide variety of placements enables you to learn so much about different health conditions – although you can’t ever be an expert in all of them, it’s so useful, even if you have a bit of background knowledge about a particular condition. It really helps you to ensure that you’re giving the best care, by realising the needs that are specific to an individual patient.

What are you looking most forward to during the rest of your time at City, University of London?

In a word – graduation!

What do you plan to do after you graduate?

I’m hoping to pursue a career in sexual health, however I know I have many more placements yet to come... so I may yet change my mind!

What would be your advice to anyone considering studying BSc Adult Nursing?

Really make the most of every opportunity that is given to you. Also, seek out opportunities and make them happen. You’re special as a student – you’ll be allowed to spend a day with a particular specialist or on a department you wouldn’t usually be able to work on. Once you’re qualified, in blues and have your own set of patients to look after, you won’t be able to do those things as easily, if at all!!