Joshua Del Prado

I was born and raised in Kogarah, in southern Sydney. I attended James Cook Boys Technology High School, where I was lucky to be School Captain. 

I was brought up in a Christian household, which taught me the importance of helping other people. Throughout my life, I have volunteered in my local community to fulfil this goal. For example, I have helped create and deliver workshops for high school students about anti-racism, and have also organised and executed large-scale events for young people in my local council area. 

Through these positive volunteering experiences, I discovered that I am passionate about helping other people. I believe that the best job where you can help other people at all hours is as a Nurse! That’s why I chose to study Nursing, as this would help me help others holistically, practically and medically. Further, my parents taught me at a young age to put others ahead of myself, and to prioritise other people’s wellbeing. I believe that as a nurse, I will be passionate in my duty of care. 

While I was in high school, I heard that the Bachelor of Nursing at UTS was ranked #1 in Australia, and required over 800 hours of in-hospital experience. UTS is also in the heart of Sydney, making it a very convenient place to travel to and from. Plus, touring the world class simulation labs was a pivotal moment and helped me make the final decision of studying at UTS. 

The most rewarding aspect in nursing is the firsthand experience we get when we enter a hospital for placement. To be able to apply the practical skills learnt in class and help patients become healthier as a student has been such a pleasure. The smiling faces and the care given to the patients is such a rewarding experience.

Over the course of my studies, I feel changed as an individual due to the lessons and wisdom spread by passionate tutors in UTS. Whilst having conversations, I find myself listening more attentively and being more empathetic. I have gained a deeper appreciation of other people’s own thoughts and found that I am no longer rushing to fill silence in a conversation. I have become more considerate of other people’s feelings due to their differing experiences and hardships.

In the future, I plan to work as a registered nurse and hopefully become a Nurse Educator or tutor at UTS. This is inspired by the tutors I have had and my passion to teach others. I plan to continually learn and become better at this profession in order to provide the best care that I could possibly give to patients.

My advice is that you are not alone in this course. There are many people who are willing to help you whether it be your classmate, tutor, or even the library. There are so many resources at UTS to help you with assignments such as HELPS. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help!

Find out more about the Bachelor of Nursing at UTS