My journey to midwifery: a career that begins with care

Student midwife Chloe talks about what inspired her to study midwifery, what she loves about her course at Anglia Ruskin University, and what's involved in the job.

I chose to study midwifery as I wanted the opportunity to make a difference to women’s lives and their families, by combining the exceptional care I would learn at ARU with my passion for caring for others.

I wanted to support individuals from a variety of backgrounds to embrace their special experience and to encourage them in times of need. I was, and still am, fascinated by pregnancy and the physiological changes the body goes through to welcome a new human being into the world. I knew midwifery was the vocation for me, I could not imagine myself doing anything else.

What does a midwife do?

Midwifery is about being an advocate for women, and working as an autonomous practitioner to achieve the best outcome for the woman and her baby. Care is a key component but without compassion, team work and excellent communication skills the quality of care provided will be jeopardised.

Is midwifery the right course for me?

To embark on a midwifery degree, you need a certain level of team work, management and communication skills to apply, pass the interview and survive your first term as a student midwife. However, these skills continuously develop over the course and allow you to act appropriately in the clinical environment, for example in emergencies.

Meanwhile, the theory learnt on the course gives you an insight in the skills required in placement. Once out in the placement area, your skills are enhanced along with your confidence. An example of this is skills lab sessions where things such as catheterisation and basic life support are learnt.

For someone thinking about this course, I’d say gain work experience or do voluntary work in a maternity environment to realise the true roles and responsibilities of midwives. Reading is essential to enhance your knowledge of midwifery and a clear understanding of the job. Often it is thought that midwifery is about babies; but prospective students who are interested in babies could in fact consider child nursing or becoming a nursery nurse.

If I could say one thing to someone considering a career in midwifery, I’d say: do it! Midwifery is the best career in the world.

Why ARU

I chose to study at ARU for many reasons. Being the youngest in my family I wanted to move away from home and develop my independence. The location of the university in the heart of Cambridge along with the community feel and friendly vibe from the university, students and its staff made me feel safe and comfortable, and enthusiastic to study at ARU. Most importantly, I chose ARU due to the connections with the local hospitals and placement opportunities in these Trusts. My placement area is a well-known and impressive hospital, so I feel I will benefit majorly from my experience in this Trust.

I found the application process to ARU very straightforward. The administrators were very prompt and helpful in providing information on what to expect next and what was required of myself to progress. The interview day was very well organised and the tutors made us feel as relaxed as we could be!

Lessons and placements

I thoroughly enjoy both the theory and practical elements of the course, a lot more than I ever anticipated I would. Theory and placement is well balanced and placement helps consolidate the theory learnt in lectures. The course is very challenging and demanding, it is hard work and requires determination, but with organisation and commitment it is manageable and enjoyable.

More than a career...

Midwifery is exceptionally rewarding. It is not just a career; it is a way of life. I feel I have found my calling in life and could not image myself in a different career.

By Chloe Bagnall
BSc (Hons) Midwifery student

Studying midwifery at ARU

If you're considering a career in midwifery and would like to learn more about studying a degree course, come along to one of our Open Days. Chat to lecturers and current students, and find out more about the application process.

You can study with us in Cambridge, Chelmsford or Peterborough.