I am studying Paramedic Science BSc and am studying in my first year. I chose this particular course because, from a young age, I was in and out of hospital environments visiting my mum who has a heart condition, and this inspired me to go into health care. I chose paramedic science in particular because I wanted to be able to help people and be there for when they need it most no matter what the situation.

Due to the course being split between studying at the University and being out on the road or in wards for placement, I have found the course team to be so supportive throughout and are always there to lend a hand either with support in the course or with anything else going on with life outside the university course too.

My time at the University of Bedfordshire so far has helped me grow my confidence and aspirations to become a paramedic by building me up from the ground and giving me the foundations to start on my journey. This has helped me to secure my ambition in furthering myself to expand on the knowledge I have gained so far leading me to grow and become the person I know that I can now drive to be.

Starting this course was the very start of my pursuit to become a paramedic and by the end of this course I hope to have been shaped by my mentors, the course team, and my ongoing drive into a confident and ready newly-qualified Paramedic. I also aspire to eventually, once qualified, go back into education and do a Masters in order to further myself and become an advanced paramedic.

My experience so far at the University has built me up brick by brick in my confidence and self belief as well as in my knowledge and skills that have prepared me for placement where I am able to refine them and push myself further with the support of my mentors. Also, the simulation-based learning, alongside the knowledge gained from lectures, has prepared me and will continue to prepare me for situations I will meet out on the road allowing me to get stuck in and learn through supporting my crew where I can with the skills I have gained.

To anyone making the decision of what they want to study and where, I would say it is a big choice and commitment but if you have the passion and drive to believe that you can see that dream, go for it. It can be challenging studying at university but it can also be a big learning experience where you recognise your strengths and have opportunities to grow your academic and personal life in ways you didn’t realise before.