It’s not uncommon to feel like it’s time for a change, but it’s not always a decision everyone feels they can make, whether it’s through fear of change or a worry that it’s too late. But for 40-year-old Laura Bingley, this is exactly what she did.
In 2022, Laura took the steps to dive back into education to study the one-year Access to Nursing course at Nottingham College. Prior to this, Laura had spent many years working in retail and customer service. “After Covid, I really wanted a career change that felt more rewarding and gave me a sense of purpose”, she explained “It felt quite daunting starting all over again in my thirties, but I believe it’s never too late and I'm so glad I actually decided to go for it!”
For Laura, the course had many benefits, particularly the guidance and inspiration she received from her lecturers, as well as the unexpected financial benefits of studying at Nottingham College, “My course was well structured and the support from my lecturers and tutor was amazing,” she said, “they were really supportive and approachable, always on hand to answer any questions and queries I had. We also received detailed support on all the assignments to ensure we passed.
“I was also surprised to receive an annual bus pass and a meal allowance from the college, which really helped with the financial strain of returning to education. Some students were even provided with laptops during the course too.”
After completing her access course in 2023, Laura has been busy working hard in higher education, and is clearly set for a very bright, exciting and rewarding future in the medical field. She said, “After my course, I applied to the University of Nottingham to study Adult Nursing and I'm due to graduate this year! I remember Nottingham College even helped with the UCAS application process and also arranged an open day for all the students to attend.
“Once I graduate this year, I'm hoping to work for Nottingham University Hospitals as a registered nurse. I'm still unsure which speciality I'd like to go into, but I have loved my placements in A&E and neonatal and adult intensive care.”
Finally, we asked Laura to share some advice to adults considering a career change and going back into education, she said, “The course is demanding and can be both emotionally and financially draining at times, but it is so so worth it. The last 4 years have flown by and I'm so glad I started my journey into nursing. I can't wait to start my career and see where it takes me, as there really are so many different fields and opportunities available in nursing.”