Choosing a university course: Jess's advice for students

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Earlier last year I was able to help in a situation that was closer to home, performing CPR on my neighbour. This event was a definite reminder that I wanted to work in this industry and confirmed my decision of a career as a paramedic - a career I have dreamed of after I was first introduced to first aid at Brownies. Since joining St John Ambulance at the age of eleven, I have always been interested in the role of a paramedic in particular and wanting to pursue a paramedic science degree.

Working with St John Ambulance, I have seen the pressures of being on the frontline and have experienced many scenarios whilst working at events such as the London Marathon - my favourite event to be a part of yet! When I was in school, I applied to my local pharmacy for a part-time job as I wanted to learn more about medications. My favourite part of the job was when patients came in with a medical need, and with help from the pharmacist, we could help solve and treat their condition. I knew that working alongside medications would translate into my future as a paramedic, a career I still had my eyes on throughout. Now, I have a greater understanding of medication and the consequences it can have on people's overall health, such as precautions that need to be considered with medications.

I chose to pursue the college route after university and therefore have been fortunate to complete placements as part of my course. I worked at a dementia care home where I learned how to consult and talk with people that had less understanding and helped those living with dementia carry out day-to-day tasks. I also worked at a special education school, putting into practice British sign language and interacting with children in a non-verbal class.

My last placement was with the county council at a support service in my area who help adults living with different mental health needs, such as dementia, anxiety, depression, and those with additional needs including autism and down syndrome. I loved working with children and adults with additional needs, but still knew I was interested in emergency care.

I knew about the course from working alongside many paramedics within St John Ambulance and therefore set my eyes on it from a young age. I knew paramedic science was the right course for me because of the mixture of medicine, scientific knowledge, research, and hands-on skills. Over these years, my experiences and studies have shaped me into somebody who wants to put myself in a position to help others and because of my interest in emergency care, this was my dream career. My goal is to be a paramedic for the Air Ambulance Service, working under more pressures and carrying extra responsibilities.

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Life as a graduate during a pandemic

Life after graduating university: Enisha's story