Aisling Moore BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing, 2020

Hi, I’m Aisling Moore and I’m studying BSc (Hons) Adult Nursing at the University of Southampton.

I love studying at Southampton, I have really enjoyed all of my placements so far and have learned a huge amount across the different areas of nursing.

Why did you choose to come and study at Southampton?

As an Irish student I did not know a lot about universities in the UK. Southampton came to Ireland to recruit nursing students and I really liked what they had to say. When I received my place on the course I went to Southampton for a nursing Open Day and really liked the atmosphere around campus.

Can you tell us what led you to pursue adult nursing? We’d love to hear your thoughts on why it is such an important area of nursing.

I completed a pre-nursing course in Ireland and felt that adult nursing was the right choice for me.

What is it like studying here?

I love studying at Southampton, I have really enjoyed all of my placements so far and have learned a huge amount across the different areas of nursing. The facilities around campus for extracurricular activities and support with academic work have really benefited me throughout my studies. The student community is wonderful, and I have met some amazing people.

How do you rate the general study facilities at the University?

I do most of my assignments and revision in the Library. I really like how it facilitates for all types of learners, and the people who work there are extremely helpful.

The sports facilities are great here, Whatever activity you may be interested in there’s probably a club for it.

How did you find the facilities in Health Sciences specifically, such as the skills labs– is there anything that stands out to you?

I have had really god experiences in my placements, where I have been placed in a wide variety of specialities in different hospitals. I enjoy the skills labs and seminar groups, as I prefer to work in smaller groups and I am more of a practical learner.

Can you tell us about your experiences on placement? Why is it important? How did your placements to compare to each other?

Placement is very important to put theory into practice. It gives people a chance to learn practically and build those skills that are required when you qualify.

Were there any modules you particularly enjoyed?

I found the End of Life and Palliative Care module really rewarding, and think that is an area I would like to focus on in the future.

What are you most proud of from your time at Southampton so far? (This could be social or academic).

I am glad I pushed myself to try new things, as that is how I met most of my friends. I am glad that I took opportunities that I was presented with for example being Captain of the Basketball team, sitting on the AU committee in the second year and representing the University at the Recruitment Days in Ireland.

How have the people you have met at Southampton changed your life?

I have met so many great people in Southampton from all over the UK and the world. As an Irish student this has been so important to me as sometimes your friends become your family. During placement I have met nurses who are inspiring, who have been amazing role models and demonstrated how to provide excellent nursing care.

Have you undertaken any extracurricular activities? How have they enhanced your experience?

I play basketball, where I have been involved in the committee. I do not think my university experience would be the same without playing a sport, I have met so many amazing people, I have travelled around the country to play away games and have had a lot of fun being involved in such a great club.

As a student ambassador, I have helped with recruitment days and open days, which has enabled me to develop my communication skills.

What are your plans for the future?

I know I will be a nurse, but where and what speciality is undecided.

What has been the hardest aspect of studying in another country? How have you overcome the challenges?

Being away from my family has been the hardest aspect, I overcame this by getting myself involved in any opportunity that came up to make new friends.

How has the University helped you to adjust to living and studying in a different country?

There is a very big Irish community in Southampton, the University identified this and got me in touch with them.