August 2019

Henry Needham stands outside facing the camera wearing a black shirt. One arm is on his hip, and he is wearing glasses. Behind him you can see trees and bushes

Henry Needham

Mental Health Nursing 2017

1.  Tell us about yourself. 

I studied a BSc (Hons) in Mental Health Nursing at Anglia Ruskin University (Cambridge Campus) and graduated in 2017. Following this, I worked as a Community Mental Health Nurse and have become involved with research within my place of work as well as championing the development of support and knowledge surrounding Autistic Spectrum Conditions.


2.  What is your fondest memory at Anglia Ruskin University?

My fondest memory was when I finished my dissertation and went to campus to get it bound and to submit it. I felt proud that I had finished my dissertation as it was a compilation of 3 years hard work. 


3.  What advice would you give to current students as they're preparing to graduate? 

I think this is a good time to reflect on the huge achievements you have made over the past few years. I would advise you to use this time to touch base with your personal values and explore how these values relate to your future goals. From here, I would then explore the next step of your career or continuation of education; being mindful of your values and goals. This is a good way to enjoy what you do and be true to yourself.


4.  What do you know now that you wish you had known whilst you were studying?

Student discounts!!! Research the potential discounts you could get and utilise them to your advantage. I found out about the many discounts offered only after I graduated. 

5.  How did your time at Anglia Ruskin help you? 

My time at ARU helped me develop myself both academically and personally. I was able to expand my clinical skills and knowledge through academia and had the opportunity to consolidate my newly learnt knowledge through exciting and interesting clinical placements. I also learnt a lot about myself and understand the importance of reflection.


6.  What did you love about your chosen course?

I thoroughly enjoyed the passion that the lecturers and personal tutors displayed to further my knowledge and to encourage me to achieve the best I could. My personal tutors always believed in me and always made the course content interesting and engaging.


7.  In one word how would you describe ARU?

Inspiring.

8.  Who was the biggest influence on your career?

It might sound like a bit of a cliché but I would have to say my twin brother Ollie. His positive outlook, constant encouragement, and belief in me has inspired me to persevere through challenging times as well as inspire me to work towards my future goals.


9.  What has been your favourite job?

My favourite job so far has been working as a Community Mental Health Nurse. It has been a privilege to be able to support people with their personal recovery in their home environment. I have been able to develop many clinical skills as well as working with some amazing clinicians across multiple teams and services. It has been an exciting time and has enabled me to learn more about myself.


10.  What advice would you give your younger self?

Be kind to yourself by learning how to say no. This will be challenging but it gives you the time you need to self-care and focus on your own needs……which often is to get a chocolate bar!


11.  Tell us something about yourself that most people don't know.

I am a bit of a ‘music man’ – I play quite a few different musical instruments in my spare time. I mainly play the saxophone and I have previously performed in several music competitions and concerts.


12.  What’s next?

I am due to return to education in September 2019 where I will be studying an Access to Medicine Course. My aim following this is to apply to study a Medicine Course in the next academic year.