“For anyone considering a career in Nursing or Healthcare, I highly recommend Monaghan Institute” says Saoirse Quigley, Nursing Studies Graduate 2019/2020

Prior to completing my Leaving Certificate, I was unsure if Nursing was the right career path for me. This uncertainty led me to enroll in the QQI Level 5 Nursing Studies course at Monaghan Institute. Looking back now, I realise it was the best decision I could have made for my career.

At Monaghan Institute, I learned the fundamentals of Nursing along with many other valuable skills such as computer software and mathematics, which have been immensely helpful throughout my nursing degree. The curriculum was designed to provide a holistic understanding of nursing, blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills.

The supportive environment at Monaghan Institute was crucial in my development. The lecturers were not only knowledgeable but also approachable and genuinely invested in our success. They offered personalised guidance and were always available to answer questions and provide feedback. This support system helped build my confidence and prepared me for the challenges of a Nursing career.

One of the most impactful experiences during my time at Monaghan Institute was the in-depth placement at Fairview Post Acute Care within The Mater Misericordiae University Hospital in Dublin. This placement was a turning point in my journey. It provided hands-on experience and a real-world understanding of nursing, allowing me to apply the knowledge and skills I had acquired in the classroom. Working alongside experienced healthcare professionals, I learned about patient care, communication, and teamwork. This experience solidified my passion for Nursing and gave me a clearer picture of what it means to be a nurse.

Monaghan Institute also emphasised the importance of personal development. Through various workshops and seminars, I gained skills in time management, critical thinking, and problem-solving. These skills have been invaluable throughout my Nursing degree and beyond. Monaghan Institute’s focus on high academic standards prepared me for the rigors of university-level education, ensuring I was ready for the challenges ahead.

With the support and guidance of all the lecturers at Monaghan Institute, I achieved a distinction in my course. This accomplishment opened many doors for me, leading to offers from all the universities I applied to through UCAS. Monaghan Institute provided me with comprehensive career support, including help with creating my UCAS application, education on how to write a compelling personal statement, and training in interviewing techniques. These skills have been invaluable not only in gaining university admission but also in securing future job opportunities.

I decided that Ulster University was the right choice for me. Here, I had the opportunity to grow as a nurse, attending my first placement during the COVID-19 pandemic on a COVID ward. This was a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience that tested my resilience and dedication.

During my time at Ulster University, I also gained experience in Community Nursing, Mental Health settings, General hospital settings, and completed my final placement in an Emergency Department. Each of these experiences was unique and contributed to my development as a well-rounded nurse. The knowledge and skills I had acquired at Monaghan Institute were instrumental in my success. I carried these lessons into my lectures, placements, and assignments, which helped me become a member of the Dean’s List and obtain an upper-class BSc Honours degree in Adult Nursing.

I am now embarking on further academic studies, pursuing a Master’s in Global Health Development and Sexual Reproductive Health at Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh, while working as a Band 5 nurse. I will always be grateful to Monaghan Institute for their impact on my journey and for helping me realize that Nursing was indeed the correct career path for me. The Institute’s emphasis on both academic excellence and practical skills has been influential in my success, and I will cherish every moment of my time there.

For anyone considering a career in Nursing or Healthcare, I highly recommend Monaghan Institute. The education and support you will receive are unparalleled, and it will set you on a path to a rewarding and fulfilling career in healthcare. Whether you are a young student unsure of your career path or a mature student looking to make a career change, Monaghan Institute provides the resources, guidance, and opportunities to help you succeed. The experiences and skills you gain here will serve as a solid foundation for your future endeavours in Nursing.

Monaghan Institute has not only helped me achieve my academic and career goals but has also instilled in me a passion for Nursing that will guide me throughout my professional journey. The supportive environment, high academic standards, and practical experiences provided by Monaghan Institute have been instrumental in shaping my career. I encourage everyone to seize the opportunity to learn and grow in such a nurturing and enriching environment.

Congratulations to Saoirse from everyone at Monaghan Institute. We are very proud of your education and career journey.

If you are interested in a career in the Nursing and Healthcare fields, apply now for courses commencing in Monaghan Institute in September 2024 at www.monaghaninstitute.ie.