Hannah Clark

Midwifery

Where are you from?

Richmond, North Yorkshire

Why did you choose Northumbria University, Newcastle?

I can commute to and from the campus easily, the good reputation and the friendly atmosphere at Coach Lane Campus, unlike a big city campus.

What do you think of Newcastle and our region and what are your favourite things to do?

Newcastle is a great city; I wish I had more time to spare to spend here.

What has surprised you most about living in Newcastle and this region? What has impressed you most?

I live at home.

Did you find Northumbria University welcoming? Was it easy to fit in?

Yes, I like being part of such a small cohort.

What have you enjoyed most about coming to Northumbria University?

Work placement and meeting a great group of people.

Who has helped you most since you came to Northumbria?

Group Tutor - Lesley Trewick, Placement Link Tutor - Suzanne Jones, Life Sciences lecturer – Kath McKay.

Who has inspired you most at Northumbria University?

My mentor, peers and some lecturers.

Have you joined ant sports teams, clubs, or been involved in any volunteer projects? Tell us about the highlights?

I wish I had time!

What is the best thing about your course?

Placement is my favourite part for learning and meeting colleagues and women. I like the intimacy of learning in a small group and that we have able to become a very close group in a small space of time.

What are the most valuable lessons you have learnt to date?

Confidence is essential, even if you have none! Time management, self-awareness, responsibilities and commitment with regards to the role of a midwife and study of the course.

What do you want to do in the future? What skills have you learned/improved that you think will be of most use in your future career?

Work as a midwife – hopefully I will have a range of skills required to be effective in the role.

Have you worked on any projects with businesses or been on a placement? What were you most memorable experiences?

Placement is my favourite part of the course. I learn best by being thrown in at the deep end and doing things. I have a lovely mentor which, I personally feel, is fundamental to success on the course and can make the difference between completing the course or not, and your future practice as a midwife going forward. I have met so many amazing and lovely people and it is that part of the role that I really enjoy, I feel really privileged to be on this course and have this opportunity.

If you could offer some advice to students thinking of coming to study here what would you say?

To study Midwifery, I would say be prepared to work hard and dedicate yourself to the course, physically, emotionally, psychologically and in terms of your time – keep the end goal in site, whilst taking a day or week at a time and you will get things done. You need a growth mind set to view every experience as an opportunity to learn, regardless of how you feel about it at the time. Keep an open mind to people, ideas, opinions, legislation and policies, be self-aware and mindful of how you come across to everyone you meet, remain non-judgemental, nurture relationships and enjoy yourself.

How do you feel you have changed as a person since being at Northumbria University, Newcastle (e.g. confidence)?

I feel I have grown in terms of my capabilities to communicate and care for people, considering their holistic needs and the nature of the situation we are in, i.e. childbirth. I am more self-aware and mindful of the way that I come across, as advised to others above. I feel that confidence is a struggle on a vocational course like this, there many factors which contribute to how you feel you are doing and coping and how well you are being prepared for a career and I think confidence is something I have and will always struggle with.