Claire Curmi Student Profile

Student Profile

Name: Claire Curmi
Course: Bachelor of Nursing

I completed year 12 in 1994 and with no real interest in further study, I started a business with my brother.  At the age of 32, after 14 years away from school and being self employed all that time, I decided to apply to study nursing.  I am currently studying Bachelor of Nursing fulltime and in my 2nd year.  I am currently also working casually at Sydney South West hospital in mental health and as a respite carer for children with disabilities.

Why did you decide to undertake the Bachelor of Nursing course?
I think everyone’s reason for studying is personal. My partner and I were self employed and were ready for a change and also a challenge in our lives.  My partner joined the NSW Ambulance service and this involved us moving from the south coast of NSW to Sydney. I had been self employed since leaving high school and felt I needed a challenge and wanted to study something which would allow me the flexibility to move anywhere my partner would get posted and still to able to gain employment. Anywhere there is an ambulance station there is a hospital close by, so nursing seemed the way to go.

Why did you choose to study at UWS?
A combination of reputation and convenience. The Bachelor of Nursing course at UWS is highly regarded with graduates being snapped up for jobs.  The campus is in close proximity to major transport, has good parking and is close to my house – all excellent.

What is it like to be a student at UWS enrolled in this course?
It is a challenging course, probably more so for me as I had completed year 12 in 1994, but I love it. It makes you learn to think for yourself, it teaches you critical thinking skills and it pushes you to want to learn more in a very supportive environment. You make great friends and I have found the lecturers are more than happy to help.

What are you hoping to gain by completing this degree?
The obvious answer is the Bachelor of Nursing qualification, a qualification which opens up so many possibilities – further studies, community nursing, hospital based nursing, justice health. The possibilities are endless.

What are your professional goals after completing your degree?
My clinical placements as part of the course are allowing me to experience different areas of nursing.  I am yet to decide where I ultimately want to work, although, after a great 2 week placement in the emergency department it is definitely something I am now going to work towards.  I also would like to do midwifery as this will open more opportunities for me as I would love to be able to go to a country or remote hospital for a year or 2 in the future after my clinical skills have developed adequately.