Anthony completed an Access course in health science at a local college before studying paramedic practice.
I felt that maybe I was too old to change careers – I was nervous that maybe I was out of my depth, but I was proved wrong.
While I was completing an Access course in health science at a local college, I heard about the paramedic practice degree at Teesside University. After enquiring further and visiting the University, I was very impressed with the facilities. I couldn’t wait to try out the ambulance simulator room where students can practise different scenarios. The course is taught by experienced paramedics with a wealth of knowledge about the role and each is very approachable.
I was 31 when I started University. I felt that maybe I was too old to change careers – I was nervous that maybe I was out of my depth, but I was proved wrong. I was pleased to see that the course attracted people of all ages and from all kinds of backgrounds. Going to University and studying to be a paramedic has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It was the most challenging three years of my life but I have no regrets – I’m now working in a job that I absolutely love.
This course delivers an equal balance of theoretical and practical learning. It’s exciting to go out on placement and put into practice what I’ve learned. I really enjoyed the pathophysiological effects certain conditions had on the human body. Ultimately, this theoretical understanding allowed me to detect and identify what was going on with the patients I was treating out on placement.
I’ve always wanted to be a paramedic. It’s an exciting time for paramedics and the role is so diverse. Paramedics are not only employed within the ambulance service – there are also opportunities for paramedics to work within urgent care centres, GP surgeries and elsewhere.
The library is impressive with a range of books suitable for what I need. It’s accessible and I could always find a quiet place to study. I was also able to access a wide range of current articles online – vital for the paramedic profession as research plays a big part in its practice.
The Students’ Union is a good place to chill with friends and grab something to eat or drink in between lectures. And there are pool tables and table tennis tables if you wanted a break from studying in the library. As a mature student with a mortgage and bills to pay, I was pleased that I was able to get a student loan which made my three years a lot less challenging.
Throughout the course I was required to take part in a shift rota with my dedicated mentor on placement. The placements gave me complete exposure to what it’s like on the road as a paramedic, providing me with an insight into other specialised roles as a paramedic. For example, you can experience what it’s like by working with the Great North Ambulance, the hazardous area response team or within an urgent care centre as an advanced practitioner. I particularly enjoyed my placement with the Great North Air Ambulance where I did a shift at the Penrith base. The view of the lakes from the aircraft were spectacular.