Lizzie Nicholl

What did you do before you started your course?
I finished the HSC in 2006 and commenced a Bachelor of Biomedical Science at UTS, which gave me an in-depth understanding of how the body works, what cause disease, and laboratory techniques, which has helped me in this degree. I soon realised my growing passion for midwifery and commenced this fantastic course in 2008.

What motivated you to study this course?
An immense passion for all things midwifery! At school I really enjoyed science and learning how the body works and had a real interest in pregnancy, labour and birth. I also really enjoyed being able to relate to people and working with infants and children. When someone suggested this course to me, it just seemed so perfect. I feel very lucky to be doing something I am so passionate about and learn from some of the most amazing midwives and health professionals.

Why did you choose UTS?
UTS was the perfect choice as it was the first university in New South Wales to offer the Bachelor of Midwifery course. It has a highly held reputation among current and students and alumni as well as the the midwifery profession. UTS is conveniently located and provides technology, including the simulation labs.

What is it like to study at UTS?
It is fantastic! There is such a fun, friendly and exciting vibe at UTS. Everybody you meet at UTS loves being there. There are great support services available, access to a wide-range of the latest technology, access to a huge amount of resources and lecturers who are leaders in the profession. I also love that the Bachelor of Midwifery cohort is a small group and are able to form a really tight-nit group who are very supportive of each other.

What do you most enjoy about your course?
I love all aspects of the course, but I would have to say that the follow-through experience has been the most enjoyable. During the course we have the opportunity to follow 30 women through-out their pregnancy, labour and birth, and early parenting period. This is such a beautiful and rewarding way to learn as you are really able to understand the process to motherhood and provide support. I often drive home from these births and think how lucky am I to witness these miracles!

Is there any advice you would give to students studying this degree?
I would say that it is extremely important to be passionate, dedicated, and committed when studying this course. It is hard-work and requires stamina but is the most rewarding and satisfying degree you can complete.

What would you like to do once you complete your degree?
Once I finish at the end of this year I hope to work in a hospital as a Registered Midwife completing my transitional year. I also hope to complete my Honours degree at UTS. My ultimate goal is to work in a continuity of care model, once I have completed my transitional year. I think that this is such a special job and when providing continuity of care you are truly able to be "with women" throughout this beautiful and life-changing experience.