I Fell Into Nursing By Accident...
Today Shona shares why she became a nurse. Shona is Clinical Team Leader on our Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit.
Shona’s story Why I became a nurse…
To tell you the truth, I fell into nursing by accident. I finished my a-levels with disappointing grades and I thought that I had thrown away the ability to choose what to do with my career. I took a year out to regroup and try and figure out what I wanted to do with my life. I knew I wanted to help people, but not in the capacity of a nurse as I am squeamish of everything to do with a human body.
I volunteered with Rethink and was sent on a wide range of basic courses in regards to mental health and volunteered at my local school in the behavioural support team. I gained a real interest and passion towards mental health and challenging behaviours and wanted to be part of a change in someone’s life.
I picked up a few prospectuses and read the description for mental health nursing and thought “great, doesn’t sound like a nurse at all”. Applied for the course, got an interview and subsequently was offered a place at university.
Little did I know that mental health nursing would involve the one thing I’m petrified of… needles!
Three years of training and perseverance later and I get a job as a staff nurse, a further three years later and I am a clinical team leader on a ward with a patient group that I have so much passion for – without a fear of needles!
There is not job like nursing, the stress and the laughter combined is enough to keep me on my toes. I have laughed and cried and questioned if I can do this on many occasions, but I have built great relationships with staff, patients and carers!
Most importantly, I leave my shift each day with my heart full knowing that I have helped someone in a time of crisis.
Good breakdown of how unexpected personal journeys can lead to such a fulfilling career path in healthcare. Reading about someone essentially stumbling into the profession and finding their passion really highlights how adaptable you have to be in this field. Balancing the initial shock of heavy academic theory alongside practical placements is a massive shift, and trying to do my nursing assignment work while adapting to the reality of ward routines can feel pretty intense for anyone starting out. It’s reassuring to read real stories from people who didn't necessarily have a rigid five-year plan from day one. I’d be curious to know if most nurses who enter the profession by chance end up staying in general bedside care or…
Such a genuine and inspiring story—many people find their true calling through unexpected paths, and nursing is one of those professions where passion often grows with experience. For those interested in exploring opportunities in healthcare or related fields, you can read more about current roles and support available through trusted staffing services. Thanks for sharing your journey!