• Name: Jodie

• Course: BSc (Hons) Paramedic Science

• Home city: Cumbria

• In her spare time, find her: playing social netball

Discovering Paramedic Science at Staffs

"After leaving school, I wasn’t totally sure what I wanted to do. I knew I wanted to be in healthcare, but I was torn between paramedic science and the fire service. Honestly, I wasn’t even sure about going to uni at all! But that changed when I came to the open day at Staffs.

I didn’t really think I’d end up three and a half hours away from home, but the open day completely changed my mind. The atmosphere was so welcoming, and I just felt this connection to the course. By the time the day was over, I knew Staffs was where I wanted to be, and choosing paramedic science felt like the perfect fit."

The power of connection: making friends before uni
“Moving so far from home was definitely a bit nerve-wracking, especially not knowing anyone. That’s where CampusConnect really helped me. Through the app, I found about 20 other people starting the paramedic science course, and it just made me feel so much more prepared. I even managed to meet the people I’d be living with in halls, which was a massive relief!
The community also helped me find answers to my questions. There was always someone like Shaun, one of the ambassadors, who’d give me the answers I needed. By the time I got to Staffordshire, I already had this network of people, and it made settling in feel so much easier.” 

From group chats to great friends
“One of my biggest worries before starting uni was meeting people, especially since I was moving so far. But thanks to the accommodation groups on the app, I already knew most of my housemates before I even moved in. We’d been chatting for months, so when we finally met in person, it felt more like catching up with friends than meeting strangers. It took away all the awkwardness!
I’ve also joined the Paramedic Society and started playing social netball, which has been a great way to stay active and meet even more people. The community here at Staffs is amazing, and it’s definitely made my first few weeks some of the best!” 

Embracing hands-on learning
“What I’m most excited about with the course is the practical experience. We get to go on two or three placements a year, which is perfect for me because I learn best by doing. That’s what drew me to paramedic science in the first place - I could never see myself sitting in an office all day!
The mentors are incredible too. They’ve all got different healthcare backgrounds, and they really take the time to help you. Their support has shown me career paths I hadn’t even thought of, and it’s been so reassuring to know I’ve got such great guidance as I move through the course.”

Looking ahead: big dreams and possibilities
“Looking to the future, I’m excited about where this course will take me. I’ve made some great friends, and I can’t wait to see where my placements lead. It’ll be a big decision whether I stay in Staffordshire or move closer to home after graduating, but right now, I’m just focused on enjoying the journey and making the most of my time here. 
If you’re not sure about starting uni or moving far away, my advice would be: 100% go for it! I was unsure at first, but coming to Staffs has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. I’ve made good friends, and I’m learning so much. You really never know what’s waiting for you until you give it a go!"