Why I chose Paramedic Science: Jennifer

What are your favourite things about your course?

I love the practical sessions where we learn a range of clinical skills, such as cannulation. Being on placement with the Yorkshire Ambulance Service has been an amazing experience, and I have learned so much; I cannot wait for the paid sandwich year, which is what attracted me to Bradford, as it's unique to the course.

My placement, along with the support from my lecturers at the University, has given me the confidence that when I join the ambulance service as a paramedic, I will be more prepared to treat those calling 999 in an emergency.

One of the sessions that stood out for me was when we went to a simulation house on campus and roleplayed different scenarios with our classmates. We had to work together to save the ‘patient’, which was not only good fun but also a great learning opportunity too!

Why did you choose it?

After working in a children’s indoor soft play centre, where children (and adults!) often have accidents, I found myself enjoying the first aid and communication aspect of the job. I enjoyed making a child laugh through the pain and making their parents and guardians feel reassured - it gave me such a worthwhile feeling. I began to think, after dealing with ambulance crews on site, I’d absolutely love their job!

With all the transferable skills I had developed over the years, I began to believe that the ‘pipe dream’ of becoming a paramedic could become a reality one day. In order to apply for my degree, I needed to go to college and do an Access course. Bradford was my first choice, and whilst it was challenging going back to study after 10 years out raising my children, it has been well worth it because I’m now doing what I love!

What are you hoping to do with your degree once you’ve graduated?

Although being a paramedic at the end of my degree will be rewarding, I would love to go on to do a Master's in Critical Care or Advanced Practice. But for now, I’m going to see where this journey takes me. I still feel as though I have a lot to learn and experience, and I believe I will be drawn to the specialism that is meant for me.

All our lecturers come from different backgrounds and have a wealth of knowledge and experience in different specialities. They are willing to share stories and give honest advice about how to progress in those areas.

Is there any standout equipment you’ve used in your studies?

During simulations, having access to real equipment used by paramedic crews has proved invaluable. Since I’m so familiar with all the equipment at University, I’m able to pass my paramedic mentor equipment quickly whilst on the ambulance, which means I’m not only helping in emergencies, but it’s also given me the confidence to know that I can actually make a difference.

Also, during the OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) assessment period, having the use of all the resuscitation equipment, such as the Corpuls Defibrillator, to practice with in and out of timetabled lessons was a massive help in passing my first year.

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Be the paramedic the world needs.

Learn more about how you can make a difference to the world with our BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science course.