Alex
Stockwell

Why NTU…

Why did you choose NTU and your course?

One of the main reasons I decided to join NTU was due to it being the first BSc cohort for Paramedic Science, the small lecture sizes and the new facilities which were being built as I joined. Small cohorts allow for more one to one time with the lecturers which massively aids in learning and support. This supplements the new HAP building which has new facilities and equipment.

Could you describe your experience of being an NTU student?

At times, it is challenging but that is expected with an academically challenging course and the nature of it all. However, I have always been provided with the support and care that I needed as and when it came around.

How would you describe the support from your tutors, university staff and student services?

Student services have always been proactive, they were able to effectively and efficiently assess me to grant me the support I was needed. Any problems or concerns that I may have had during the course, either placement or academic based, the lecturers have been able to support me and push me in the right direction.

On Placement...

Have you completed any work placements on your course? If so, tell us about your experience – where did you go, what did you do, what skills have you gained and what have you enjoyed the most?

So the paramedic science course is composed of 1500 placements hours over the three year period. My initial placement has been at a local ambulance station providing emergency medical care to the south of Nottingham. However, I have also done placement shifts in paediatrics A and E and will be attending my maternity placement within the next few weeks.

Placement can be hard, stressful, rewarding and sometimes very surreal. Being subjected to the unknown with limited knowledge and a big green bag on your back can be frightening to say the least. When you think of a paramedic, what do you think of? Is it blood, guts, and gore? Well, it isn’t. I have found myself meeting a vast range of people, all from different backgrounds and all suffering with some sort of ailment. I have heard stories from patients about how they lived through the war, travelled the world and on multiple occasions; how they are still waiting for their son/daughter to be married so they can buy a new hat.

Do you have any memorable moments from your placement?

I have some very memorable moments, some good, some bad. However, that is all part of the journey and the job. I will forever remember the first job I attended, the first birth and the first surreal job.

Do you have any advice for future students going on placement?

Look, listen, learn and ask as many questions as possible until your voice breaks. You are there to learn and your practice educators are there to teach.

Outside of the Lecture Theatre…

What three words would you use to describe Nottingham?

Lively, sociable and different

Where is a good place to eat, drink or visit in the city?

They’re so many options, you will find somewhere. They have a range of food places, clubs for all music genres and multiple venues to go and socialise with friends.

Did you find it easy to make friends and settle in at NTU?

Luckily, due to a small cohort I was able to make friends quick and easy. Plus, living in student accommodation, along with all the student socials, I was able to easily make friends. Some of which I currently house share with.

The Next Steps…

What would you say to someone who is thinking of applying to NTU?

Being a student paramedic is a privilege. You see the beginning of life, death and everything that fits in-between. Every day is different and if it is something you are debating on doing, go for it.

What is one thing you wish you knew before starting at NTU?

That my bedroom would end up with so many plants in it.