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Gillian Mancz MSc Specialist Community Public Health Nursing Studies, 2016

Lecturer in Adult Nursing at the University of Portsmouth

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Hi, I'm Gillian Mancz and I studied Specialist Community Public Health Nursing Studies (SCPHN) at the University of Southampton.

The clinical placements while undertaking the SCPHN course were vital to me as they allowed me to apply theory to real-life situations. Practice teachers and mentors in placement supported the learning process and helped me develop my skills.

What made you select the University of Southampton for your postgraduate study?

I started studying at the University of Southampton in 2007 and completed my Advanced Diploma in Adult Nursing in 2010. I then went on to top this up to my Bachelor of Nursing in 2012. I found the University of Southampton a supportive place to study and was keen to continue to my studies with them.

How did you complete your studies at the University of Southampton?

I completed my postgraduate studies in two parts; firstly, I completed my PGDip in Public Health Practice: Specialist Community Public Health Nursing (SCPHN) and then secondly, topped this up with an MSc Specialist Community Public Health Nursing Studies through the completion of my dissertation. I found my dissertation supervisor very supportive and knowledgeable.

What did you enjoy about the course?

I enjoyed both parts of my postgraduate studies. I particularly enjoyed being part of a tutor group and found both my tutor and peers supportive.

How useful did you find your clinical placements?

The clinical placements while undertaking the SCPHN course were vital to me as they allowed me to apply theory to real-life situations. Practice teachers and mentors in placement supported the learning process and helped me develop my skills.

What is your current profession?

I have had a varied career pathway to this point, including working as an Adult Nurse in acute medicine, trauma & orthopaedics, in the community as a Health Visitor and then as a Specialist Safeguarding Nurse working with teenagers at risk of sexual exploitation. I have recently left this post and am now a lecturer in Adult Nursing for the University of Portsmouth.

How do your experiences of clinical placements support your current profession?

Clinical placements allow nurses to consolidate their skills and apply the theory to practice.

What have been the highlights of your career to date?

I have most enjoyed working as part of a multi-agency safeguarding team specialising in working with teenagers at risk of going missing, being sexually exploited and/or trafficked. This provided me with the opportunity to work alongside social workers, police and the voluntary sector to safeguard our most vulnerable children. The nature of the post allowed you to take time to build relationships with the children at their pace and on their terms, meaning it really was a job where you felt like you made a difference!

Do you have any plans for your future career progression?

In my new role, I’m hoping to shape the future generation of nurses, similarly to how my lecturers at Southampton University have influenced my practice. I am also planning to continue studying and hope to start my doctorate in the next year or two.

What tips would you give to current students looking to start a career in your sector? What could they be doing now to make themselves more employable when they graduate?

Nursing is an amazing career, with many varied pathways and no day is ever the same. Being an active learner and getting work experience will help you understand the role of the nurse and make you more employable. 

What advice would you give to a student starting their postgraduate study at Southampton?

Time management and organisation are key, particularly when juggling work, study and family commitments. Keep on track and prioritise your study. Completing your study and graduating does make it all worth it.

What are you most proud of?

Handing in my dissertation for my Masters was a huge moment for me, particularly as I had juggled changing jobs, working full time, being a parent and studying. At times, I wasn’t sure I would get to that point and I felt a real sense of achievement when I handed it in. But I think I’m most proud of my unwavering family support and encouragement that helped me continue my studies and achieve my Masters.

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