Mary Hada Maringisanwa – Class of 2019
Mary started her North Hertfordshire College journey with a Health & Social Care course in 2014, before returning to complete an Access to Higher Education programme in 2019.
Since then, Mary has used the skills, knowledge, and experience gained at college throughout her time working in mental health care.
Mary got in touch with us to share her favourite memories of studying at North Hertfordshire College, read what she sent us below:
How did NHC support you in preparing for this role?
“My academic journey at North Hertfordshire College began in 2014/15, when I was working as a support worker. I wanted to improve myself and get more involved in patient care, so I started a Level 2 Health and Social Care course at NHC. I also achieved excellent grades in English and Maths, which are paramount in nursing training.
“All of these courses were part-time, so the flexibility was perfect for me as a working mother of two children under 10.
“In 2019, I enrolled on a full-time Access to Higher Education course in Nursing and Midwifery at NHC. This programme provided me with fundamental knowledge, which I further developed during my degree course at the University of Hertfordshire between 2020 and 2023.”
What takeaways from NHC do you use in your current role?
“Since my time at North Hertfordshire College, I have been working as a Registered Mental Health Nurse in the NHS and Cygnet Healthcare.
“North Hertfordshire College opened doors for me but, most importantly, the College embedded a deep, evidence-based approach to trauma-informed care that I use on every shift.
“The reflective practice sessions at NHC taught me to understand and care for my mental wellbeing as a nurse, which is vital to providing excellent patient care.
“NHC encouraged me to ‘Stay close, Go far’, and I am tremendously grateful for this. I stepped into a very demanding yet rewarding career with great confidence thanks to my tutors.
“My message to the current students: the foundation you are building at NHC will carry you beyond your imagination, continue to work hard and trust the process.”
What’s your favourite memory of your time at NHC?
“The library! We loved spending time there to write our assignments.
“I have built long-lasting friendships, including with Maambo, who is now my best friend for life.”
Would you like to give a shoutout to any tutors, staff or friends from your time at NHC?
“Big shoutout to my tutor Julie, and my best friend Maambo!’
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