Kimia Taslimi

During my undergraduate studies, I fell in love with critical care nursing, and I remember reading a lot of papers and policies that were written by researchers and nurses in Australia. So, when I found out Australia has the highest survival rate in its critical care units, I knew I wanted to continue my education there and learn from the best.

I looked at the group of 8 universities offering courses I wanted to take and attended their course information sessions. I remember attending the University of Melbourne’s Master of Nursing Science Information Session and hearing from the course coordinators and two nursing students. After hearing from one of the nursing students (who was also a student ambassador like me now!), I made up my mind. I remember saying to myself, “I want to study at this university!”

I love the fact that during the Master of Nursing Science I learned how to reflect on and grow from my experiences and mistakes. I have developed more confidence in communicating professionally and therapeutically. I have also recognised the importance of peer support. Crucially, I have also become better at time management and maintaining a study-work-life balance.

I really like our simulation labs and placements because we are constantly asked to use our critical thinking when applying theory to practice. After the first year in the course, we all reach the point where we think critically automatically.

Additionally, everyone in the course, from students to coordinators, are super supportive. You never feel alone as everyone is offering to help you if you feel like you are struggling. Placements are the most fun!

Finally, I also really appreciate how we get to take an elective subject tailored to our future career pathway.

I hope to become a registered critical care nurse, nurse researcher, haematology/oncology nurse, and/or clinical educator.

Even though you might feel lonely at the beginning, the University of Melbourne has a large and supportive community. I recommend attending as many social events as you can. It won’t take long before you find yourself surrounded by like-minded people! Just make sure to be kind to and patient with yourself.

Studying is stressful and moving to a whole new country takes the stress to another level. That being said, you’ll find yourself feeling sad about graduating soon after because you’re enjoying life at university too much.

Lastly, healthcare is a very rewarding field. You help people in your day-to-day work and you are constantly learning. Even if you work 20 years in healthcare, you might see and experience new things in your 21st year! So, if you are someone who likes helping others, likes health sciences, and wants a profession that never becomes a routine, I would say there is no room for hesitation – go for the Master of Nursing Science!