Gabby
Robinson-Durant

Why NTU?

What inspired you to study your subject?

"From a young age, I’ve always known that I would like to work in the area of mental health. I completed an undergraduate in Psychology at NTU and following this, I started to work at a local mental health hospital. While working, I completed an MSc in Forensic Psychology at NTU part-time but I fell in love with my job on the wards. I love meeting new people and being part of their recovery journey."

Why did you choose your course and NTU?

"I initially chose NTU for my undergraduate and I kept coming back! I love the environment at NTU. The support you get and the way you are treated.

The course was exciting and new, being the first cohort allowed us to have an active voice on the course and the lecturing team always listened to any feedback given."

What’s your experience been like of your course so far?

"My highlights of the course are the placements I’ve been on and the experiences you have on them!

On my management placement (final placement) I had the opportunity to lead care and lead the ward, which supported my transition to a newly qualified nurse. It definitely helped my confidence!"

Have you been involved in any projects or extra-curricular activities that have supplemented your studies run through NTU?

"During my psychology undergraduate degree, I was part of various sports teams and absolutely loved my experience.

This time around, I was quite worried about joining new teams or societies as I am a mature student. However, myself and a team of nursing students created and ran the Nursing Society. We ran social and educational events to support nursing students at NTU."

What does Social Sciences mean to you?

"Social sciences to me means focusing on people, and a person-centred response. It means improving services for people, improving their lives and supporting them to have the best quality of life."

On Placement

Have you completed any work placements on your course?

"During my placement, I have completed 9 different placements! These have ranged from community teams to ward-based, older adults to young adults and even forensic services! I’ve absolutely loved all my placements and each one has helped me to develop different skills which has supported me to become a well-rounded mental health nurse!"

Do you have any memorable moments from your placement?

"The most memorable moment was running a depot injection clinic, where I did my first depot injection on an actual person. It was such an anxious moment but I got through it!"

Support

What do you think of the support available from tutors and staff at NTU?

"The nursing lecturing team are absolutely amazing in terms of support. Even when you’re on placement you receive regular supervision from the lecturing team and people are always contactable!"

Outside of the Lecture Theatre

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

"Initially, it was difficult to make friends, having to stay within our COVID-19 bubbles but once the world opened again, there are so many opportunities at NTU to make friends and socialise!"

The Next Steps

What’s next for you after NTU?

"I have secured a staff nurse post at a local mental health hospital working with adults aged 18-65."

How is NTU helping you to achieve your career goals?

"NTU continues to provide support. My lecturers continue to keep in touch and are working towards offering CPD courses."

Advice

What top tips would you give anyone thinking about studying your course at NTU?

1. "Check out the city! There is so much to do and see!
2. Go to an open day! Check out your course and also the social aspects and the support NTU offers.
3. Speak to current students, their experiences will help you!"