Joshua Alcaraz

What's it like to study at Northumbria? 

Honestly, it was hard work, but in a good way. The lecturers had worked in practice themselves, so what they taught actually made sense once I got onto the wards. I always felt like there was someone I could go to if I was struggling. 

Best thing about studying Nursing Science (Adult) 

The placements. You learn a lot in lectures, but it really clicks when you're on a ward looking after real patients. By the time I qualified I felt ready to start work, and I ended up in cardiothoracic intensive care, which I never would have thought I'd be confident enough to do. 

Favourite thing to do on campus / community 

One of the best things about Northumbria University is that City Campus is right in the middle of town. After a long day of lectures, there's nothing better than heading out with coursemates for a cheeky pint or a nice meal to wind down. Those nights out are where a lot of friendships were made. Nursing placements can be tough, and having people going through the same thing made a huge difference. I definitely felt part of a community, and I'm still in touch with a lot of them now. 

Course & career goals / industry links 

The course has strong links with local NHS trusts through placements, so you get loads of hands-on experience before you graduate. I now work as a registered nurse in cardiothoracic intensive care at Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals. The course also got me interested in research, which I didn't expect, and that's now a big part of what I want to do. 

A time you realised you were capable of more 

When my first paper got published. I'd always thought publishing was something senior academics did, not students. One of my lecturers encouraged me to give it a go and helped me through it, and seeing my name on it was a proper "oh, I can actually do this" moment. 

Support that boosted confidence / ambition 

The lecturers, without a doubt. A few of them really backed me and pushed me to go for things I wouldn't have applied for on my own. That's also why I did my teaching qualification. I'd like to be that person for other students one day. 

Advice for someone considering Northumbria 

Say yes to things, even if they feel a bit out of your depth. Talk to your lecturers and let them know what you're interested in, because they'll help you if you ask. I started out just wanting to be a nurse and I've ended up with far more than I planned.