My first year as a student nurse at York St John: the highlights
Starting university is a whirlwind, and my first year as a student nurse at York St John has been everything I imagined – and more. From diving into the world of healthcare to making unforgettable memories on nights out in York, this year has been a rollercoaster of growth, challenges, and a lot of fun. Here’s a look back at some of the biggest highlights.
Placement: the start of something real
One of the most exciting (and nerve-wracking) parts of studying nursing is going on placement. I still remember the nerves on my first day, stepping into a hospital ward, wondering if I’d be able to keep up. But soon enough, I found my footing. I learned so much from the experienced nurses, doctors, and even the patients themselves. From learning to take observations to helping with patient care, every shift taught me something new. Seeing what we learn in lectures come to life on the ward was surreal – it made everything feel real. The long days were tough, but nothing beats the feeling of helping someone and knowing you’re on the right path.
Freshers & nights out in York
Of course, it hasn’t all been scrubs and textbooks. Freshers’ Week was the perfect way to dive into uni life and meet new people. York is such a beautiful city, and the nightlife didn’t disappoint. From club nights at Flares to chilled evenings at Stone Roses, we made the most of every moment. Some of my best memories involve dancing until the early hours and laughing with friends over cheesy chips on the way home. Nights out in York have been full of good vibes, and they helped me bond with people who are now some of my closest friends.
Living by myself: learning independence
Moving out and living by myself was a big step. At first, it felt strange not having my family around, but it didn’t take long to enjoy the freedom. I’ve learned to cook (well, kind of), manage my time, and take care of myself in ways I never had to before. It’s been a year of figuring things out – from budgeting to laundry disasters – but I’ve come out more independent and confident. Having my own space has also been a great way to relax after busy days.
Lifelong friendships & fun
One of the best things about this year has been the people. Nursing is intense, but it brings you close to others who are going through the same thing. We’ve laughed, cried, and supported each other through it all – from early morning lectures to late-night cramming sessions. I’ve made friends I know I’ll have for life. Beyond the course, we’ve had so much fun – brunches, movie nights, random adventures around York. It’s the little moments that have made this year so special.
Looking ahead
As I look back on this first year, I feel proud of how far I’ve come. It’s been full-on, but I wouldn’t change a thing. I’ve grown as a person, gained skills I’ll use forever, and had an amazing time along the way. I can’t wait to see what the next years bring – more placements, more fun, and more memories in the making.
To find out more information about our Nursing course here at YSJ, check our course webpage and read Emily’s blog where she shares why she chose YSJ to study this particular subject.