Nursing has always been a dream of Stef Adams’ and the only thing stopping her was needing NCEA Level 3 to do so.
UCOL’s Certificate in Introduction to Health Science offered Stef the chance to gain the necessary qualifications to pursue her dream job, plus have a peek into what a career in nursing would be like.
“Without having gained NCEA Level 3 I had to look into my options, and that’s when I discovered UCOL’s Certificate in Introduction to Health Science. If it wasn’t for that programme I wouldn't be where I am today.”
Born in Gloucester, England, Stef moved to Masterton when she was 10 years old and says that ever since then it has felt like home.
“I chose to stay and study at UCOL Wairarapa because it was close to home and I loved how small the campus was in comparison to other universities,” she says.
Stef says she was impressed by all of the support UCOL provides its students. “My lecturers were so passionate and they wanted each and every one of us to succeed.”
Along with gaining essential health science and study skills to start her on the right path to pursue nursing, Stef enjoyed the programme and made heaps of new friends.
A 2016 graduate, Stef now has the qualifications and industry experience to fulfil her goals and studying nursing at UCOL, all while staying in her hometown.
“I’ve absolutely loved every bit of the health science programme. I gave the certificate my all and now I’ve gained a place in the Bachelor of Nursing programme.”
Stef looks forward to completing her degree with UCOL Wairarapa and plans to become a registered nurse working specifically in aged care.
“When my Nan went into a rest home I was moved by the kindness and respect she was given. Seeing all the staff so passionate about their jobs has inspired me to use my skills to give them the fair treatment they deserve.”