Harris Beteck Orock - BSc (Hons) Learning Disability Nursing
Where are you from and which course did you choose to study?
I moved to London from Dublin, Ireland and the course that I chose to study was learning disability nursing (LD).
Why did you choose LSBU?
I chose LSBU as my Dad also studied Law here and told me many good things about the university. My interview with lectures also made my decision very easy, as they were very warm and friendly towards me and made me feel comfortable.
What was your inspiration or reasons to study this subject?
My Mum is also an LD nurse/social worker she did the same course in Salford university in Manchester. She shared her experience and gave me very good advice about the course. My youngest brother also has a learning disability, growing up with him and caring for him has made me very passionate about providing care for people with learning disabilities. I believe I understand the importance of caring for them in a non judgmental way. I am also determined to find ways to minimise certain barriers faced by people within the LD population.
Tell me about how the course lecturers have supported you?
My interview was done with James Cass and Queen Ng'ambi-Nyirenda, straight away i was able to sense how supportive and kind they both are and when I met them on my first day, they both expressed how happy they were to meet me and I always remember James encouraging me to engage during lectures when I may have been shy and quiet.
What kind of new technologies and equipment have you learned about on your course?
During my time in the course, I have learned how to use clinical equipment such as blood pressure monitor, oxygen saturation monitor, ECGs, Urine/ph dip stick and Naso-gastric tube insertion.
What skills have you learned or developed at LSBU?
Studying at LSBU has made me improve my communication skills by doing a lot of group work and I have also managed to make new friends from my course and outside my course. My interpersonal skills have also improved as I feel more confident in working with others and putting myself outside my comfort zone.
Where do you see yourself in the future and what are your goals?
My future goals would be to become a fully qualified LD nurse either in a hospital or community setting. I am passionate about making sure the voices of LD patients are always heard.
Do you have a work experience placement and where are you working?
I have worked as a student nurse at Great Ormond Street Hospital For children and with East London Foundation Trust in a forensic mental health and learning disability unit.
The thing I am most enjoying about my placements are gaining different experiences, skills and knowledge, managing and coping in working under pressure and meeting amazing supporting staff who are willing to teach.
What advice would you give to people thinking about studying at LSBU?
LSBU is a university where you are guaranteed to come across very friendly students and staff. It also provides amazing facilities such as the gym with LSBU active, the library which has many services and an IT support desk. The receptionists will always be willing to support and provide information to students with and the lecturers will always assist you and make sure you are never struggling with assignments etc.