Alanna Edwards

I worked as a qualified dietician and nutritionist for three years before I decided to apply for the Bachelor of Midwifery at UTS. In 2014, I commenced my journey towards a new career path. I chose UTS because it is one of the few universities to offer a direct entry program into midwifery.  When I attended the UTS Open Day, I was impressed by the Health Faculty’s teaching facilities, its hospital affiliations for clinical experience and its range of unique opportunities (including the option of rural placement in third year). I knew then that UTS was going to be my first preference for undertaking my second university degree.

Before starting at UTS I worked as a qualified dietician and nutritionist for three years before I decided to apply for the Bachelor of Midwifery at UTS. In 2014, I commenced my journey towards a new career path.

I was motivated to study this degree because I realised that my interests lie largely in women’s health, more specifically, reproductive health. Professional development as a dietician allowed me to gradually focus my continued learning in these areas and fuelled my desire to embark on a course in midwifery.

I chose UTS because it is one of the few universities to offer a direct entry program into midwifery.  When I attended the UTS Open Day, I was impressed by the Health Faculty’s teaching facilities, its hospital affiliations for clinical experience and its range of interesting opportunities (including the option of rural placement in third year). I knew then that UTS was going to be my first preference for undertaking my second university degree.

The UTS learning environment is supportive, fun and interactive.  I have developed some wonderful relationships with fellow students and staff for which I am truly grateful.

The most rewarding aspect of the course is the development of new knowledge and skills which we frequently apply in a practical setting. Each time you learn something new and then have the opportunity to put it into practice in a real situation, it’s exhilarating. Whether it be the first antenatal appointment you run, or the first time you deliver a baby, there is a great sense of personal achievement. 

When I complete my degree I hope to acquire a Graduate position.  The New Graduate program is really beneficial, providing continued and supportive on-the-job learning early in one’s career. In the not too distant future I’d also like to enter the field of research to bring my two degrees (Nutrition and Midwifery) together. At present, my idea is to delve into the impact of overweight/obesity on both male and female fertility.