Patrina Loughran: A Mother’s Journey to Success in Nursing
Patrina Loughran, a remarkable graduate at Queen’s University Belfast, is not your average student. Today, she proudly walks across the stage, receiving her degree in Learning Disability Nursing with the highest marks in the entire nursing cohort. As a married mother of three and a full-time carer, her path to this achievement is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Overcoming Fear and Embracing Change
Patrina’s journey into the world of nursing was not a simple one. After working in a care home for adults with learning disabilities, she felt a strong pull towards pursuing a career in nursing. However, as a mature student, she was initially filled with fear and self-doubt. Patrina recalls, “I was actually petrified. I nearly felt foolish thinking of starting a career at this point and only applied on the UCAS deadline day, but from the moment I started the course, I knew it was the right decision.”
Achieving Excellence Against All Odds
Despite her initial trepidation, Patrina quickly found her footing at Queen’s School of Nursing and Midwifery. She excelled academically and personally, earning a string of prestigious awards, including the Foundation Award in learning disabilities, the Shymol Thomas Award for Innovation in Nursing, and the Academic Excellence Award. Her crowning achievement came in 2024 when she was named the Royal College of Nursing’s Student Nurse of the Year, a national honor that recognized her dedication and commitment to the field.
Making an Impact Beyond the Classroom
Beyond her academic accomplishments, Patrina became a beacon of support and guidance for her peers. She took on the role of a peer mentor, published blogs, and created a guidebook to assist first-year students during their placements. Her advocacy for student support and positive change within the community led her to chair the Student Voice Committee, where she continues to inspire and empower others.
A Future Fueled by Passion and Purpose
Now working as a Staff Nurse in a residential home for children with learning disabilities, Patrina is applying her knowledge and skills to make a difference in the lives of others. She co-leads the Royal College of Nursing’s Newly Qualified Nurse Network, embracing new challenges with the same resilience and passion that brought her to where she is today.
Patrina’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of resilience, passion, and the unwavering desire to create positive change. As she looks towards the future, she hopes to inspire others to step out of their comfort zones and embrace their brilliance. In her own words, “Nursing has given me a future I’m excited about. I’m grateful to have found something I love and hopefully I can inspire others to be their brilliant selves.”
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