Carmen’s Story

Carmen Brooks

Nursing (Adult) BSc (Hons)

Placements a-plenty

It was a combination of wanting to change career path and nursing a close family friend that made Carmen finally follow her dreams and apply for nursing.

"My kids are independent and I thought, this is my turn to do something for me," she said.

"I looked around and applied to several universities, but it was the facilities and staff at University College Birmingham that swung it for me.

"The facilities and equipment are incredible and wherever I have been on placement, nurses and doctors are always surprised about our knowledge, ability and confidence when using equipment and following correct procedures. The University has a really good reputation in the health sector."

She said she particularly enjoyed her placements.

"The placement team sit with you to understand where you might want to specialise so they can ensure you have at least one placement in that area," she said.

"My placements have included Birmingham City Hospital, Birmingham Treatment Centre, Rowley Regis rehabilitation hospital, Good Hope Hospital ITU, Willow House providing end-of-life care and the Queen Elizabeth Hospital working with vulnerabilities team.

"Following these incredible placement experiences, I hope to specialise in palliative care.

"It takes a special person to be a nurse and you do have to go the extra mile and yes, it’s not the most highly-paid job, but I will always have a job.

"There are so many routes and areas where you can specialise and progress. I am so proud of myself, it’s been tough, but the support here is great."

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