For Caitlin, studying Nursing at Queen Margaret University was a clear first choice. Drawn by QMU’s strong sense of community and supportive learning environment, she found a course that the BSc (Hons) Nursing combined academic depth with meaningful, real-world experience. From engaging with research through her dissertation to gaining hands-on insight across a wide range of placements, Caitlin made the most of every opportunity to grow as a practitioner. Her time at QMU laid the foundations for a varied and fulfilling career in nursing and education, shaped by evidence-based practice, person-centred care, and a passion for supporting others.
Why did you choose to study at QMU and what attracted you to the course?
QMU was always my first choice for studying Nursing.
I was attracted by the sense of community and support offered to students. I grew up in Edinburgh and considered all institutions; however, I felt that QMU was the best fit for me, especially as I was keen to complete my Honours Degree to offer additional learning and support my transition to registration, allowing me to pursue more academic opportunities.
I particularly looked forward to the dissertation task, where we had the opportunity to propose a research project, really giving insight into how evidence-based practice and positive change can occur within healthcare.
What did you enjoy most about your course?
I loved the placements; I had such a wide variety and was lucky enough to have my final-year placement within the community – an area I had always been keen on.
Can you tell us more about your placement experience?
The variety of placements offered gave me an excellent insight into the different care environments in primary and secondary care. I mostly enjoyed my final, 15 week community placement – this extended block allowed me to apply the theory learnt so far and be embedded within the placement environment’s team. I also had the opportunity to have placements in surgical wards, medical wards and A&E. The placements were structured well and considered my personal circumstances, allowing me to plan for these with minimal concerns.
Were there any particular course activities you found especially interesting?
I enjoyed the theoretical learning around person-centred practice; it was so interesting to see how these approaches form the foundations of nursing care, and the link to practice was so clear.
How did your lecturers support your learning?
The lecturers were always approachable and considerate of both the challenges that come with the course and those that were specific to me. I had a great experience with support from lecturers throughout the placement, and found their visits and clinical supervision to be excellent resources.
Did you win any awards or scholarships that helped you develop skills and experience?
Yes, I won some awards during my 4th year, including one that allowed me to publish on the QNIS blog, which was great.
Did you attend an online or in-person Open Day/Offer Holder day before coming to QMU?
I attended an Open Day and also an interview.
What’s your ‘top tip’ for making the most of being a student?
Always seek support from the teaching team. Embrace the group work!
Can you tell us about your life post-graduation?
After graduation, I initially worked in a surgical ward, which gave me valuable experience and really supported my transition to newly qualified status. Following this, I moved on to a community nurse role, which was always my goal, and I absolutely loved it. I worked within the community for 4 years, taking on additional postgraduate study modules to support my development and patient care. I enjoyed being back in education, exploring the current research in the ever-changing world of healthcare and nursing. In 2023, I moved into an education role and currently teach at a college as a Health and Social Care Lecturer – another role with plenty to learn. I am particularly enjoying supporting students who wish to transition into healthcare professions and supporting them through their practical and placement experiences, as well as their theoretical studies.
Anything else you’d like to share about life at QMU or as a graduate?
I don’t believe my career would have been as varied as it has since graduating in 2018 had I not attended QMU.
I absolutely loved my time at QMU, and the support that was offered was brilliant. The teaching staff were always keen to support you in pursuing your interests and developing your knowledge.
