A seat at the top table for Northumbria nursing student

A Northumbria University student has been appointed to the Royal College of Nursing’s national Students’ Committee.

Emillie Miller is set to represent the interests of the Northern region’s nursing students on a committee with representatives from the nine Royal College of Nursing (RCN) regions and four UK countries.

Emillie began working as a health care assistant at Durham Hospital to see if she enjoyed nursing work. She started the Adult Nursing course at Northumbria in September and joined the University’s Nursing Society and the RCN at the Freshers’ Fair, before applying for a seat on the RCN committee.

“The idea is to be a link between my peers and the RCN, sharing information and making sure communication flows both ways,” said Emillie. “I’m looking forward to attending my first meeting. It should be a great development opportunity.”

 “It’s getting tough now as I’m working on the bank at Durham Hospital as a health care assistant at the same time as doing my degree,” she said. “I work on an acute medical unit and starting there was a real eye-opener. It could have gone either way; at first I thought I would never be able to do it, but once you get used to it and learn the ropes it’s great. The ward I work on is so friendly, everyone pulls together. I love it.”

Professor Amanda Clarke, Head of the Department of Healthcare at Northumbria University said: “We are proud that Emillie has been elected onto the RCN’s national committee. This is a great opportunity for Emillie and demonstrates the high calibre of our nursing students. I am sure Emillie will be an excellent ambassador for Northumbria University.”

Northumbria University's nursing courses allow students to specialise in nursing for various groups including children, adults and those with mental health issues or learning disabilities. For more information on nursing courses at Northumbria University visit www.northumbria.ac.uk/nursing or come along to our next Open Day on Saturday 28 November.