International Nurses Day | “Studying part-time was absolutely the best choice for me”

Owen Nash, a 40-year-old Adult Nursing student from Porth, is on the brink of completing his degree at the University of South Wales (USW), proving that determination and resilience can pave the way to success, no matter your background.

Owen did not take the traditional path to university. After leaving school at 16, a lack of academic support left him without the qualifications to continue in education. Instead, he entered the world of work. First, in bar work and security, before finding a role in healthcare that changed the course of his life.

"I found that I loved working with patients,” Owen explained. "My colleagues encouraged me to gain further qualifications and to aim higher because of my attitude and how I cared for patients."

Owen gained healthcare experience working spinal rehabilitation at Rockwood Hospital and then cardiology at University Hospital of Wales. Both posts inspired him to pursue a career in nursing. Owen returned to study while working full-time, a demanding combination he found challenging at first.

"Balancing full-time work and study after 20 years away from education was incredibly hard," he said. "However, once I transitioned from the Certificate in Higher Education into the degree, having more dedicated study time made a huge difference. The course has taken six years to complete, but it has flown by. Studying part-time was absolutely the best choice for me.”

Throughout his studies, Owen has balanced multiple responsibilities, including his six children. Despite these pressures, he has thrived, becoming both a Student Representative and Chair of the Student-Staff Course Liaison Group.

Now nearing the end of his degree, Owen is looking ahead to a future in critical care, having applied for positions in Intensive Care and Post-Anaesthetic Care Units. After a rewarding placement in intensive care, Owen discovered a passion for working with the hospital's most vulnerable patients.

"I like the challenge of working in critical care," he said. "You have to stay alert, you have to think fast, and the support in critical care is phenomenal."

Reflecting on his journey, Owen has this advice for others considering a career in nursing: "Consider getting experience as a healthcare assistant first. Nursing isn't glamorous, it's about real care, from bathing patients to critical thinking. Don’t let age or your background put you off. It's never too late."