What our students say
Rose McGuire, adult nursing graduate - on the support she received throughout her studies, and the support she gave, as a student representative and ambassador
“Getting into university was a dream come true against all the odds, as I had no formal qualifications. Nevertheless, Kingston gave me the opportunity to fulfil my ambition and supported me throughout.
“As a mature student and a widowed mother of four children, I found balancing family and academic life extremely difficult. To manage these difficulties, I learned (with academic guidance) how to effectively utilise life skills, such as management skills. This is where being a mature student has its distinct advantages.
“I found the course very challenging and intense and it took a lot of determination, self-discipline and self-motivation to carry on. Completing it would not have been possible without the support I received. Support was a vital part of the overall process for me, so I accessed it whenever I needed it. Seventy-five percent of the lecturers will probably testify to this, as I generally made use of whoever was available! The fantastic support I had throughout from family and friends, academic staff, peers and colleagues collectively was fundamental to the successful completion of my training.
“At the beginning of the course, I was elected as a student representative, a post I held with great pride for the three years and enjoyed immensely. I was also an ambassador for the Faculty of Health and Social Care Sciences. As an ambassador, I had the opportunity to share my experiences with potential students, either at the Faculty on open days, online or at different institutions.
“I was also a member of the Widening Participation group, an external focus group that looks at issues affecting students throughout their course and how to find solutions to these problems.
“The Kingston student population is a vibrant and diverse cultural mix. Kingston is a fantastic place to study, meet new people and make lifelong friends. As one of the top universities for teaching quality in the national league, it offers something for everyone, whatever your interests. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Kingston and felt privileged to have had the opportunity to study there.
“My belief is that one should be open and honest about one's needs and make use of the support available. Believe in yourself and follow your dreams and ambitions. Grasp every opportunity, treat each one with equal appreciation and enjoy yourself. I did. Whatever you choose to do, choose wisely as life is not a matter of chance, but a matter of choice.
“The academic staff at Kingston helped me believe in my abilities and realise my ambition. I would like to take this opportunity to extend my gratitude and appreciation to all the staff in the Faculty, who contributed (directly or indirectly) to my personal and professional growth and development. I will be perpetually grateful to you all.”
Adult nursing
- Rose McGuire, graduate
- Claire Smitheram, graduate
- Sophie Wismer, first year student
- Cassia Lim, third year student (video)
Children's nursing
- Jodian Barrett, third year student
- Jodian Barrett, third year student (video)
- Beverley Haffenden, second year student (video)
