When looking at universities, what inspired you to apply to Middlesex?
There are a number of universities that offer the BSc Honours degree in veterinary nursing however I felt Middlesex, in conjunction with the College of Animal Welfare, offered the best and most in-depth course content that would enable me to become a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN). As a mature student, I was also aware that Middlesex University is fully supportive and encouraging of older applicants. At interview, I was impressed with the location and the people I met. Studying in London also enables you to take advantage of everything that the capital has to offer.
What was it about the course that motivated you to apply for it?
A number of things motivated me to apply for this course. The course content is excellent, with an extensive mix of topics covering all aspects of surgical and medical nursing. Modules such as ethics and professional practice allow the opportunity to discuss the role of the veterinary nurse and prepare you for a career as a RVN. The lecturers are mainly veterinary surgeons and long-qualified veterinary nurses, hence you are learning from experienced and knowledgeable veterinary professionals who have all worked in the industry. In addition, the University assisted me in finding a placement at a large veterinary hospital where I stayed for the whole of my degree. This enabled me to learn practically from some excellent vets and nurses and complete the whole of my Nursing Progress Log. I was always made to feel an important and valued member of the team.
What have you enjoyed about the course?
The course has enabled me to follow my passion for promoting animal welfare. It has given me the ability to support veterinary surgeons across all areas of practice and help clients and their pets. Applying the theory learnt in lectures to clinical practice has been one of the most rewarding elements of the course. The ethics module was particularly enjoyable as it makes you think about a number of moral and professional issues surrounding veterinary practice, which can often be overlooked. Pharmacology was also one of my favourite modules. Whilst lots of calculations are involved, it gives you the skills to understand all of the medications that veterinary surgeons can prescribe, including how they actually work.
I wrote my dissertation on feline chronic renal failure, enabling me to research and develop ideas about one of my areas of interest, geriatric feline diseases. I also enjoyed writing essays on more specialist areas such as orthopaedic surgery in the surgical nursing module. Middlesex University also offers an elective option in your final year. I chose to do behaviour and training. The lecturer is a nationally-renowned veterinary behaviourist, someone ordinarily you would not have access to.
What are your ambitions for the future and how do you think your time at Middlesex will help you achieve them?
The course and my placement have enabled me to feel confident about my abilities as I am about to become a RVN. I am now keen to put the skills I have learnt into practice and am currently considering a number of qualified nursing positions where I can become a Clinical Coach. This will allow me to assist students in becoming veterinary nurses by supporting and educating them to the same excellent standards I was.
Would you recommend Middlesex to prospective students considering going to university?
I would certainly recommend prospective veterinary nurses to consider the Bsc in Veterinary Nursing at Middlesex University. It is very well respected amongst employers and gives you both the academic and practical experience you need. There is currently a shortage of qualified veterinary nurses and this degree gives you the skills to be able to quickly obtain employment upon qualifying. Middlesex University has great facilities and staff to support you throughout your time here.
