Jessica Maye has spent the past few years studying Nursing at the University of Dundee. We caught up with her to ask her a few questions about her experience.

Why did you choose to study nursing?

I am lucky to have known from a young age I wanted to be a nurse as I had many opportunities growing up to work with people and help those who couldn’t help themselves, and I quickly recognised the sense of fulfilment and joy I had doing so. I have a lifelong dream to run my own elderly living community, and I know a wholesome learning career in nursing will equip me with the right skills and experience to make my dream a reality.

During the course of your studies with us you’ve completed several placements. How has the experience of your placement changed during the Covid-19 pandemic?

I was very fortunate that my last placement was the same as a previous placement I had and it was the area that I wanted to start my nursing career in. Although it was a nerve-racking thought to start a nursing career during a global health pandemic it allowed us, as final year students, to recognise and utilise the skills we had spent 3 years learning. Although there were obvious difficult scenarios, I am so grateful to have been based on Ward 32 with a very supportive team and area that had many learning opportunities. Now, as an NQP, I am thankful for my band 4 placement and enjoying my continuous nursing journey on the same ward.

How did you feel to be nominated for one of our School of Health Sciences awards?

I was pleasantly shocked to be nominated for an award, but then deeply humbled to win the Inspirational Student Nurse of the Year Award. I am so lucky to love my job and I aspire to approach each day with a positive attitude and if that helps encourage or inspire someone then I will try and do so each and every shift.

What advice would you give to a student in their first year?

I would advise first year students to approach every day as a new opportunity. Start with a deep breath and realise that there will be many challenges but even more rewards. I follow the two same rules now as an NQP as I did as a student; to take each day as it comes and to not sweat the small stuff. Enjoy your good shifts, recognise your tough shifts and at the end of each one reflect on what you learnt- but above all be proud of what you have achieved. That is most important!