“Flinders University has given immense support,” says Bhutanese nursing student, Tshering Om. “All the faculty supports every student, and they aim for excellence.” This level of commitment to student support was particularly evident recently, as the Bachelor of Nursing (Pre-registration) student has been studying in Australia throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
Experience to graduate career-ready
Tshering chose to study a Bachelor of Nursing (pre-registration) at Flinders as a way to strengthen her existing learnings. Although already experienced in nursing, she was keen to update her knowledge, and refine her skills.
Bachelor of Nursing students gain industry experience and have placement opportunities throughout their studies. The course aims to develop students like Tshering into registered nurses, who are reflective about their practice with well-developed clinical reasoning skills – and who have a commitment to lifelong learning.
Meet Flinders nursing alumna Mami – watch her story above.
Committed to teaching excellence
“Coming to end of first semester, I have learned how to relate diseases and give rationales for medication and a lot of good knowledge on academic integrity.” As well as refining her theoretical knowledge, Tshering is able to put this into practice. “I am also getting to update my hands-on practice with the excellent resources available – and the excellent lecturers.”
For over 40 years, Flinders has been at the forefront of nursing and midwifery education – discover more about our history here.
Tshering knows that her Flinders degree will improve her employment prospects, and is already planning for the future.
“After graduation, I see myself in better position, such as being a clinical nurse with well-equipped knowledge and hands-on practice,” she explains.
This practical experience hasn’t ended because of COVID. The university made sure that students were able to continue with high quality lessons, safely.
“Despite the pandemic, we could successfully conduct all our classes and lab practices in campus because of the thoughtful lecturers. They quickly initiated measures to maintain social distancing and keep students and staff protected.”
Studying at Flinders
Tshering says she’s enjoying university life. “I enjoy being in university where I get to make and meet new friends from diverse cultures and countries.” The nursing student and her friends have been enjoying the natural landscape around Flinders. “We can take a walk and go for hikes – which helps maintain a healthy mindset for studying.”
Even during the COVID restrictions, Tshering has remained engaged in her course. “I was really impressed with the way the the faculty supports every student, and how they continuously aim for excellence.”
Although she managed her studies during the lockdown period, Tshering is glad to be back on campus. “The Flinders nursing campus is calm and friendly for learning. It has a spacious library and lounge to study and do research – with friendly and supportive staff.”
Adelaide lifestyle
Before choosing Adelaide, Tshering did plenty of research. “I came to discover living expenses and life would be much more affordable, compared to other universities and cities.”
Adelaide is one of the most affordable state capital cities in Australia for students (QS Best Student Cities 2018) and is rated in the Top 10 World’s healthiest cities (Spotahome 2018).
Additionally, South Australia maintained an enviably strong record during the COVID-19 crisis, thanks to restrictions being put into place quickly – and taken seriously by the wider community. It is now one of the safest places in Australia, with more testing per capita, very few COVID-19 related deaths, and, to date, few active cases. Tshering has been grateful for the safety and affordability during this difficult time.
“Despite the pandemic, we can manage to survive and study in Adelaide because housing and the costs utilities, and general necessities are much more affordable,” she says. “There are many varieties of food available at affordable prices, and visiting the beach is a great way to relax and refresh your mind – and it’s free!”
Check out our favourite places to cool down in an Adelaide summer – here.
Getting to any of the many metropolitan beaches is easy with the range of public transport available. “Transportation is very reliable and accessible in Adelaide,” Tshering says. “It also has a friendly culture and environment where we can feel like we are in our home country.”
Advice for prospective students
“Being here at Flinders will make you feel at safe and at home in a friendly environment – with great support from every faculty.”
Tshering has recommended Flinders to her friends at home in Bhutan and says she would endorse it to anyone looking to pursue a meaningful career in nursing.
“For me, Flinders has not been a wrong choice. Flinders University is equipped with knowledgeable, dedicated, and supportive teaching faculty and approachable staff.”
For Tshering, her decision to study at Flinders has been an anchor of safety in tough times.
“The best thing about Flinders is you will never feel neglected. Whatever problem you are facing, they have solutions.”