Nursing: Hannah Jones

What led you to study at the University of Melbourne?

I saw an advertisement for the University of Melbourne’s Masters of Advanced Nursing Practice and thought it would be an amazing, highly respected course. I knew it would challenge me and help me to become the best neonatal nurse I could be. The University of Melbourne has close links to the Royal Women’s Hospital where I work, and has a great reputation for its teaching and research in health. I liked the layout of the Masters and the fact that I could undertake a research pathway. I also knew I would have support from the University staff. Lastly, I have always loved the campus - I adore the open green spaces.

What are your favourite memories of your time at the University of Melbourne?

There are many! The friendships I formed with other students undertaking the Masters are very important to me. I also formed close professional relationships with both my teacher for my Diploma year, and my Supervisor for my Masters year - who was a rock for me throughout my studies. The beautiful campus is also a favourite memory.

What/who motivated you at University?

My supervisor was a strong motivation for me to complete my Masters and to work for the very best possible outcome that I could. My family also supported and motivated me to continue my studies in Nursing, as they know that Neonatal Nursing is my passion. The families I care for at work everyday also inspired me, as my Masters study had a purpose of adding current evidence to the nursing practice I undertake every day and to help families who are admitted to the Unit.

What motivates you now?

The families I care for definitely motivate me to be the best neonatal nurse I can be, and my Masters helped me to consolidate my neonatal knowledge and really push myself towards this goal. The families I work with show great strength at times of considerable adversity and I respect them so much and feel like my Masters training helps me give something back that might help them.

What drew you to your area of expertise?

I was born at 27 weeks gestation (13 weeks premature) 28 years ago. I grew up hearing stories from my parents about their time in the Neonatal Intensive Special Care Unit, and how the neonatal nurses had helped them through one of the hardest times of their life. I wanted to work in this field to give something back in any way I could, and help other families through dark days like the nurses helped my parents.

What do you love about what you do?

I get to work with some courageous and inspiring families and some beautiful and resilient babies, and even though it is a challenging job, it is so rewarding. I am also now providing education and working alongside students and staff in the Unit and I find it very gratifying to support others in the Unit around me.

What do you consider to be some of the greatest accomplishments of your life and career so far?

I am proud of myself for following my dream and believing in myself. I enjoy going to work every day as a neonatal nurse. I am also very proud of undertaking my Masters and completing my thesis with a First Class Honours grade, whilst also working four days a week in the Unit. I am pleased that I can support other nurses in the Unit, and also form strong holistic relationships with the families we are caring for.

What excites you most about the future?

I still learn something new every day and that excites me. I am working in a job that I am very passionate about so I am excited to keep doing this for many years ahead!

What is good health to you?

I believe good health is surrounding yourself with people that you love and that make you happy, working in a job that brings you joy, being passionate about life and making the most of every day.

What is the best piece of advice you've ever been given?

"Believe in yourself and you will be unstoppable."