Posted Thursday 13 August 2020
Megan Saul's friends were stunned when she decided to switch career paths and go back to university for a third time to study midwifery. But after applying for a place through Clearing at Kingston University, she is thrilled with her choice.
The 26 year old had initially completed a biology degree at Queen Mary's University, and went on to study for a Masters in neuroscience. She found the subject fascinating, but as much of the work took place in the laboratory, she soon realised that she really wanted a more hands-on role in a caring profession where she could work directly with people.
Megan took a position in a low security mental health unit in Leeds and was there for two years before the idea of studying midwifery began to surface in her mind. "I really enjoyed working in mental health but I did find it hard working with people with such sad stories," she admitted. "I still wanted a role where I could help people through difficult times, but I also wanted to work somewhere where the process itself brings joy."
Megan started to research courses and discovered that the nursing and midwifery courses run jointly by Kingston University and St George's, University of London, are number one in London. The University was accepting applications during the Clearing window, and Megan applied and was swiftly invited for an interview. Two weeks later, she had moved to London and started on her midwifery course.
One of Megan's concerns about going to back to do an undergraduate course was that everyone would be younger, but she says she was pleasantly surprised that the age range on the course was quite broad. "I definitely didn't feel like the odd one out, as there was a wide variety of ages and backgrounds, which was really nice."
Midwifery course lead Angela Frankland has been impressed with Megan's approach. "Meg has brought some valuable transferable skills and experience to the course and is clearly passionate about midwifery. We are very proud of our reputation for producing high calibre midwives and I have no doubt Meg will thrive in her chosen career."
The midwifery course is a mixture of traditional teaching and practical experience, and in her first year Megan has relished her placements at St George's Hospital in South West London.
Her time with the Home Birthing team was particularly inspiring. "The highlight for me without a doubt was witnessing my first home birth - it was just amazing," she enthused. "Those ladies are fantastic at what they do and it was incredible to hear all the positive feedback from the women they looked after," she said. "Coming from a science background, it was a great way for me to start my training."
Megan's advice for anyone considering applying for a Clearing place is not to be afraid. "Just do it. Everyone said I was crazy to think about going back to university but I knew it was the right decision," she said. "If you're not happy with where you are or what you're doing, don't let fear stop you from changing your life," she added.
11 April 2024