Siobhan Franklin

• Year of graduation: 2015
• Current job title: Diabetes Specialist Nurse
• Current employer: Milton Keynes University Hospital

Your course of study

Why did you choose your course?

The university is linked to my nearest hospital and where I wanted to work at the time.

Your university/career journey

How do you think your studies have helped your career or personal development?

Without the course and qualification, I would not be able to do the job or go into the career I wanted to do.

Describe your career progression so far, and any plans you have for the future. Are there any particular hurdles you may face?

3 years after qualifying I became a diabetes specialist nurse and progressed to a band 7. There are lots of career opportunities once qualified in nursing.

Placements

Where did you complete your placement year? What was your role?

Milton Keynes Community and Hospital as a student nurse.

What were the benefits of doing a placement year?

Helped me develop practical skills I would need in healthcare, instead of solely just learning the theory in lessons.

How do you think the placement helped you to gain employment after graduating?

You’re not employable if you don’t have any practical experience as this is crucial in this field. It is also required as part of the degree course and is in the curriculum.

Do you have any tips on applying for placements? What can students do to help them get one?

Volunteer or work somewhere based in healthcare. More experience you can have before the course will really help.

What advice would you give to students about to begin a placement year?

• Don’t be afraid to ask questions or say you don’t know.
• No question is a stupid question.
• Research things you have seen or need to know about.
• Spend time with different specialists

Your advice

In one sentence, what advice would you give to undergraduates interested in this career path, e.g. tips on gaining entry, accessing opportunities, anything you wish you had known earlier?

Go get some healthcare experience if you do not have any prior to starting your course.