Award: Education Award Sponsored by Te Pūkenga – Toi Ohomai Business Division – L7
Studies: Bachelor of Nursing
This year, Hailey Smith, recipient of the Education Award Sponsored by Te Pūkenga – Toi Ohomai, has made incredible strides in her journey toward becoming a nurse. Her resilience, dedication, and passion for supporting others shine through as she reflects on her experiences in 2024.
A Year of Highlights
A highlight of Hailey’s year was her three-week placement at a rest home, where she gained valuable skills and formed meaningful connections with the residents. This hands-on experience solidified her passion for nursing, as she witnessed the critical role nurses play in promoting health and well-being.
“It was an honour to support residents in a vulnerable state while providing empathy and kindness to improve their moment,” Hailey shared. Drawing on her own personal experiences of being in and out of hospitals, she was able to empathise deeply with the residents and use her knowledge to offer them the best care possible.
Her placement allowed her to integrate the theoretical aspects of her degree into real-world practice, which she found both rewarding and enjoyable. Hailey reflected that this experience, along with her studies, has helped her grow personally and professionally, giving her confidence and excitement for what lies ahead.
Overcoming Challenges
Hailey’s journey has not been without challenges. She has faced ongoing struggles with her mental health, including anxiety and self-doubt, which made balancing her studies and health particularly difficult.
“There has been blood, sweat, and tears throughout this year, but I am proud of myself for not giving up,” Hailey said. With the unwavering support of her whānau and friends, she successfully completed her first year of nursing.
Despite the hurdles, Hailey has found renewed purpose in her degree. “This journey has shown me the importance of having something to fight for. Nursing has become ‘my thing,’ and it motivates me to get out of bed and continue fighting my illnesses every day,” she shared.
The Impact of the Award
The support from her award has been instrumental in Hailey’s success this year. The funding enabled her to purchase essential equipment, such as a stethoscope and blood pressure cuff, that she will use throughout her nursing career. It also covered costs for textbooks and online training subscriptions required for her studies.
“This award has removed the financial barriers I initially faced and allowed me to focus on managing both my studies and my health needs,” Hailey expressed.
Looking Ahead
With two years remaining in her Bachelor of Nursing programme, Hailey is determined to achieve her goal of becoming a Registered Nurse. She aspires to work in paediatrics, where she can support young people navigating similar challenges to those she has experienced.
“A massive thank you to everyone involved in providing these awards. I am incredibly grateful and would not have made it this far without your help.”