Spotlight on Talent – Aissatou Houmi

Studied: Introductory Diploma in Health and Social Care, Level 2 and Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care
Progression: BNurs (Hons) Adult Nursing – University of Wolverhampton 

With care qualifications and academic skills to go with her two years’ experience working in a care home, Aissatou Houmi feels well-prepared for university and a future career in nursing.

“I’ve always wanted to be a nurse,” said 23-year-old Aissatou.  “The idea of bringing a sile to someone’s face as they recover from illness or injury, or can just enjoy their day in comfort makes me so happy.

“I’ll be proud to make a difference.”

Aissatou has progressed from Level 1 to Level 3 health and social care qualifications at Walsall College while also studying Functional Skills English and maths.

“I’ve enjoyed all my learning so much,” she said.  “I always knew that working in care wasn’t just about being there for someone in a physical capacity. Emotional wellbeing is just as important.”

“Making a portfolio of evidence for my Level 3 course was challenging but my tutor showed me how I could keep improving my writing skills.

“I enjoyed the topics we studied, especially the unit we completed about mental health and how this related to both the individual and the carer.

“The most important thing we studied is about building resilience.  That’s something I will always remember.”

Aissatou was also working in a care home while she studied.  As a result, she became further committed to delivering best practice for patients.  She also inspired her colleagues to follow suit.

“Following the right procedures and demonstrating good practice means patients and staff are kept safe,” Aissatou continued.  “The more I studied about this, the more empowered I felt to question the way some thigs were being done.  Changes were made at the care home because of this.

“It means each individual receives the right care and that’s what matters.”