Born and bred in Masterton, Kendyall Chapman is now looking after the health of people in the Wairarapa.
Kendyall (Ngati Kahungunu ki Wairarapa) studied the
Bachelor of Nursing at UCOL Wairarapa after working in hospitality and event management. She had considered studying nursing for some time and was swayed after seeing an advertisement for UCOL in the local newspaper.
“My different life experiences have always led me to consider becoming a nurse. Let’s say I am very happy with my decision,” says Kendyall.
Kendyall approached her studies like it was a full-time job and often studied late at night in the Student Hub. Kendyall’s commitment combined with her lecturers fostering a supportive and friendly learning environment was a recipe for success
In the first year of her degree, Kendyall formed a study group with some classmates, meeting up once a week. Learning alongside the group was a highlight for Kendyall.
“We pulled on each other’s strengths and supported one another when something seemed too hard. Each of us had different areas that we considered our strength or weakness and we used this to our advantage to teach each other,”
Kendyall is now enjoying life as a Practice Nurse at Carterton Medical Centre after working as a Locum Registered Nurse for a year.
“I love all aspects of my job, from the patients to my colleagues. I enjoy the variety my job brings; no appointment is the same. I am always encouraged and supported to be the best nurse I can be.”
Kendyall says her UCOL education prepared her well for a career in nursing.
“UCOL prepared me by teaching me a range of different skills, including self-reflection, providing person-centre care, and being holistic and culturally safe. UCOL taught me how to effectively utilise critical thinking which enables me to complete a full health history and examination.”
Kendyall is eager to keep developing her skills and knowledge in her current role and is considering training in to become a Nurse Practitioner in the future.
“I want to learn as much as possible and gain experience to enable me to become the best nurse I can be.”