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At the School of Health Sciences, we pride ourselves not only on our first-class teaching, but also in the way we support students from all walks of life to fulfil their potential during their time with us.
Adeola Durodola is one of our Mental Health Nursing MSc students who is graduating in July.
After what she described as an initial period of significant readjustment, she flourished and became one of the highest-achieving students from her cohort.
The 42-year-old, who previously worked as a Creche Assistant, arrived in Liverpool in February 2022 from Nigeria. She said: “While researching various cities, I came across information suggesting that Liverpool was an affordable place to live as a student, and learnt how highly regarded the University of Liverpool was.
“Initially, the move presented a significant change for me. It took time to adjust to the new culture, the education system and the new way of life however it helped to ask questions and I consciously embraced new experiences and challenges which proved to be extremely beneficial.”
In addition, Adeola spoke in glowing terms about how the School and the wider University eased her transition and provided her with the support she needed to develop appropriately.
Adeola said: “The University was incredibly helpful to me in various ways, and I attribute my success to the support I received. They provided orientation sessions and resources to help me adjust to the School, as well as Financial Support Services and important information about living in a new country.
“Additionally, the University's International Student Support Team was always available to answer any questions I had and our tutors maintained open-door policies to support us.
“I also sought help from the university's Finance Unit, our Academic Advisors and my fellow students which made the transition smoother. Overall, the experience of transitioning to life in the UK as a new student was both challenging and rewarding, providing valuable opportunities for personal growth.”
Maxine Cromar-Hayes, Adeola’s Programme Lead, said: “I am very proud of Adeola for so many things but the fact that she won the Thelma Ennis Year Two Prize – for the highest achievement in a second year practical exam, is a true testament to her commitment to her own development and to those that she will be caring for in the future.”
After such a successful period at the School of Health Sciences, Adeola told us about her excitement and dreams for the future: “My studies have significantly improved my professional capabilities. I feel like I’ve gained all the skills and knowledge I need to succeed in my career and developed a real appreciation for patient-oriented and recovery-focused care.
“I want to finish my preceptorship in the UK within the next year and then relocate to Australia afterwards to achieve additional qualifications while seeing more of the world and gaining more practical experience.
“Eventually, I want to return to Nigeria to establish a nursing home in honor of my late father.”
When asked what her favourite thing about the city of Liverpool was, Adeola said: “It’s such a welcoming city with really friendly people.”
Click here for more information about studying with us, as a UK or international student, at undergraduate, postgraduate or CPD level.