Shavonne Connor – BSc Mental Health Nursing
As a school leaver from Forres Academy in Moray, Shavonne had always wanted to work in mental health.
“Growing up, my aunty worked as a nurse and as a kid I would idolise the nursing profession. When I found out that I could follow my passion and support those struggling with their mental health, I instantly felt drawn to nursing.”
Despite this enthusiasm, Shavonne has dyslexia and aged seventeen, was encouraged to do hairdressing at Moray College UHI.
“I always wanted to go to university but from a young age I received mixed messages. Some people said I could do anything I wanted, whilst others, normally careers advisors at school, told me I should pick work that used “my hands” and that I wouldn’t cope at university due my dyslexia. However, I had a passion and a drive to not only go to university but to work in the mental health field, so I worked hard and used their comments to fuel my passion.”
Having completed a qualification in hairdressing, Shavonne’s ambition to work in mental health remained. She applied to do a Level 6 access course in Health and Social Care at Moray UHI so she could apply to University.
Fast forwarded four years, and Shavonne is very positive about studying a BSc in Mental Health Nursing.
“The way that mental health nursing is taught at RGU is very unique. We have open discussions around topics and learn through a mix of each other’s experiences and structured lessons, which we consolidate with study materials.
“I have had amazing experiences and a wide variety of placements covering the whole lifespan. I have been to acute care, CAMHS, forensics, the community in Shetland, older adult community, and substance misuse. I have loved every moment of my placements and learnt so much. I have been extremely lucky with my placement areas and am so thankful to those who have supported me and helped shape me to become the nurse I am.”
Reflecting on her success, Shavonne says she is immensely proud of her achievements.
“I have never been the best academically, but I do my best and give it my all. I have had some hard moments while studying and had to defer a year at one point, but I’ve loved my time at RGU.
“During my first year I supported the on campus Covid 19 testing centre, helping test students, and making sure they were safe to travel home to their loved ones.
“I have also taken on the role of Student Ambassador and highly enjoyed this role, as I’ve been able to speak to prospective students and answer any of their questions and ease their anxieties about whether the course is for them.
“I was also Co-President of RGU Peer Support and am immensely proud of the achievements of the committee, particularly as we inherited the group after Covid-19, and it’s come on leaps and bounds since then helping students with their wellbeing and mental health.”
During her studies, Shavonne used the RGU Inclusion Centre and RGU Library service, to make her lectures and study material more accessible and to help with referencing. She also received support from the Study Skills team, who were extremely helpful and helped boost her confidence in her academic writing which was particularly helpful as her confidence before was quite low.
Shavonne has also used the RGU Counselling & Wellbeing Support & Advice Service and RGU Union for her own mental health and wellbeing, and describes both services as being the ‘back bone’ that helped her through her course.
Looking forward, Shavonne is exciting to be embarking on a career in mental health nursing.
“My dream job is to work within Children and Adolescents Mental Health Services (CAMHS). I have a strong passion and drive to support the younger generation and to help them take a proactive approach to mental health. Early interventions are key to better health outcomes.
“I feel like RGU has offered fantastic opportunities throughout my studies and has really prepared me. All of our lecturers still actively nurse in their chosen area of mental health nursing and therefore offer a wealth of knowledge. Our placements also help prepare for what to expect when we graduate.
“I'm aware there'll be quite a leap when I get my first job, but I’ve never felt more ready thanks to all my lecturers, family and friends. I don’t think I could have felt more supported without the help of RGU.”