Zoe Fitzmaurice is currently studying a BTEC Extended Diploma in Health & Social Care at Merton. She is passionate about caring for people and hopes to go on to study Paramedic Science at University, to eventually become a Paramedic.
Why did you choose to study at Merton College?
I chose to study at Merton College because I had heard very good things about the college from family and friends who had also studied there. Also, when I went to have a look round the college all the staff were so helpful and friendly that I already felt so welcome. I originally wanted to study Applied Science however due to not getting the right GCSE’S I was unable to enrol onto that course. Instead of the college turning me away they were so kind and patient in helping me find a course that I could do to help with pursuing my career choice in the future.
Why did you choose to study Health & Social Care?
I chose to do Health and Social Care because I am very passionate about helping / caring for people and I want to make a difference in that field. I also chose this course because I have always wanted to be a paramedic and I knew that studying this would help me gain the knowledge that I need to be able to pursue with my career choice.
What have been the most enjoyable aspects or highlights of your course?
There are many enjoyable aspects of the course. For example, completing a variety of role play tasks within your class which gives you the knowledge of what it will be like when working in that environment, how to communicate with the patients professionally and the way to handle difficult situations. Another aspect of the course was completing my hours of work placement, this really helped me to understand what my career will be like in this sector and it enabled me to watch the professionals and see how they deal with a various number of situations.
Can you provide examples of any particular achievements or describe how you overcame any difficulties on your course so far?
In my first year of college when I was studying Level 2 Health and Social Care, I was able to take part in a first aid course, which I passed, this helped me get more of an idea of what my career entails and I learnt how to do many things such as; the recovery position, CPR and how to bandage up wounds. At the beginning of the course, I was not very confident and struggled communicating wit others however the staff were all so supportive and helpful that as the years went on I felt a lot more confident in myself and was able to push myself to carry on and get where I want to be. There is also a lot of teamwork tasks that are done during the course which also helps to build on communication and how to work as a team which I always used to struggle with.
Did you complete any work experience and if so, how did it help with your studies?
In my first two years of college, I did my work placement in a care home, this really helped me to understand many different mental and Physical disability and how each one can affect an individual. I also got to watch over the professionals while they were doing one to ones with the residents which was nice to communicate with them and knowing that I was putting a smile on their face just by keeping them company. I also was able to do a variety of activities with the residents such as bingo, exercise classes, board games and even just sitting down with them having a chat. Doing all this really made me happy that I was already making a difference and making the residents happy. In my last year of College I chose to do my work placement with another age group in Primary School which I really enjoyed. I knew that doing my work placement with different age groups was very beneficial because I know that being a Paramedic means dealing with people from all different ages.
What are your hopes/goals/plans for the future or your next study options?
My plans for when I finish college is to hopefully get a place at University where I can study Paramedic Science, which would lead me into being able to fully qualify as a Paramedic.
Do you have any advice for other potential students looking to enrol?
My advice for students is to always believe in yourself and never give up. Even if hurdles come in your way continue pushing because with all your determination you will get to where you want to be in the end.
