My journey to becoming a midwife at Middlesex University

I chose to study midwifery because I carried a huge desire to help women during the most pivotal moment in their life. I found the fetal development and the physiology of childbirth highly interesting, as well as the role of a midwife, in that they support and advocate for women during the antenatal, labour and postpartum periods. I discovered that midwives do a lot more than assisting women at the point of birth, some see women routinely, performing their regular check-ups, and others provide urgent care to women who face complications during their pregnancies and beyond. Midwifery encompasses many things and that is what drew me to the profession.

Falling in love with the University

I attended one of Middlesex University’s open days in 2016, where I had a tour of the campus and was impressed by their amazing facilities. I fell in love with the campus almost straightaway. The skills lab in the Hatchcroft building impressed me, as did the library. The fact that the library has two floors solely for quiet study made it easy for me to find my ideal study spot. I also found the campus warm and welcoming; it had a highly positive atmosphere. I knew then that this is where I wanted to study my midwifery degree.

I sought additional support from the university’s disability support team. They went above and beyond to ensure I was well equipped to commence my degree. They arranged for equipment to help me capture lectures and organised taxi journeys to help me reach my placements safely and in good time. I felt well supported by the team, and it is a service I highly recommend to students who may need further support. They made my transition to university life easy for me, and as someone who struggled during her primary and secondary school years this is what I needed to ensure that I completed my degree with ease.

Paid work opportunities on-campus

During my time at Middlesex, I managed to secure a flexible, part-time role to work as a student ambassador, through Unitemps, which is part of the university’s careers and employability team. I thoroughly enjoyed my job as it helped to boost my confidence tremendously. I conducted many campus tours, assisted during welcome events and graduation, and supported numerous undergraduate open days.

I felt it was an honour to represent Middlesex University, and I am forever thankful and grateful to have been given this wonderful opportunity. I have gained many skills such as learning to work well within a team, communication and even managing a small of team of ambassadors. I have since transferred these valuable skills to my current role as a midwife. 

Becoming more confident

I found myself flourishing during my time at Middlesex. In terms of the academia, I found my lecturers to be extremely helpful, supportive and knowledgeable. They were extremely inspiring, and the lectures were always insightful, which made it easy for me to apply theory to clinical practice. I learnt so much during my clinical placements that I found to be invaluable, working with hardworking and kind mentors. On a slightly personal level, Middlesex University helped me to become a well-rounded, more confident individual. I have made so many positive memories during my time there and have met so many different people. I have learnt so much and I am forever thankful to the university for the happiness it gave me and for providing me the platform to grow.

I am now working as a full-time NHS Midwife, based at Guys and St Thomas’ Hospital in Westminster. I work in the Maternity Assessment Unit, providing urgent care to women who face complications during their pregnancies and the postpartum period. I am so passionate about my role and absolutely love and enjoy what I do. I look forward to every shift and always find myself learning something new.

Advice for prospective students

My advice for prospective students is to grab hold of every opportunity that heads your way. Never say no to a good opportunity, as they are rare. If you find yourself giving up and finding things to be hard, please speak up and don’t struggle in silence. Allow yourself time to adjust into your course and don’t hesitate to ask for help; academics are there to support you, speak with your allocated personal tutors and fellow course mates too. Ask questions, lots of them. Take baby steps, especially in your first year, seize the opportunity to ask questions if you are unsure and if you feel you may forget to ask a question, don’t hesitate to jot it down. I also advise that you join societies, any that may be of interest to you and if not, you are free to create your own society. Lastly, a top tip for all students, make good use of the quiet floors in the campus library. It is very important that you give your assignments your full, undivided attention.

About the author

Aqsa Rabbani studied BSc (Hons) Midwifery from 2018 to 2021.