Regine Lapuz

I was born in the Philippines and immigrated to Australia at a young age. I completed my primary education in Brisbane, before moving to Sydney in 2016 to finish my secondary education.

My decision to become a nurse was driven by values instilled in me by my family. I come from a family of nurses. My mother was a nurse, my aunt is a nurse and my cousins are nurses.

Growing up, my family represented nursing to me as a profession that demonstrates selfless caring and compassion for the most vulnerable. They have inspired me to become a compassionate individual and to make a positive impact on the lives of many, no matter how big or small. My family are my role models and I am forever grateful for their continuous guidance and support every step of the way through this journey.

• Why did you choose to study at UTS?

I chose UTS because of its long-standing nursing reputation, extensive connections to clinical hospital facilities, the appeal of the course’s program structure and the access to technologies and amenities on campus. Apart from these, UTS is committed to supporting work-life balance. As a student nurse working as an undergraduate AIN, juggling study, work, clinical placements and personal life can be tough and challenging. But UTS offers flexible study options that allow me to build a timetable that suits my own schedule.

• What has been the most rewarding aspect of the course?

Nursing can be challenging and confronting, but it is no doubt the most rewarding, uplifting and satisfying career. One of the things I find most gratifying about being a nurse is forming unique and close bonds with patients through clinical placements and work environments. These bonds are often everlasting and remain strongly in place even after patients regain their independence. The opportunity to work so closely with patients allows me to build connections and get to know them on a personal and deeper level.

It’s a lot about love, compassion and hearing their stories. Every patient has their own story to tell and learning from their life experiences is such a blessing and personally fulfilling.

• What are your plans for the future?

Nursing offers numerous career pathways, providing widespread opportunities to work in various areas in the field. At a young age, I’ve always wanted to pursue a career in nursing beyond any civilian nursing role, so joining the Australian Air Force and working as an Air Force Nurse had always been at the back of my mind. But as a student nurse, I am constantly exposed to new, unique paths and have discovered deep interest in the critical care specialty and perioperative environment.

Every time you think you have everything figured out, another experience or interest presents itself – and that is the beauty of nursing, it’s filled with endless opportunities.

Find out more about the Bachelor of Nursing at UTS