Former health T Level student Liahna Wilson is enjoying life at the University of Staffordshire, where she is studying paramedic science.
Although she was part of the inaugural health T Level cohort at Telford College, the former Telford Park School pupil didn’t initially start off her further education journey in health.
“I first heard about Telford College because it was the closest option, and my brother studied computer science at the Wellington Campus. I originally started in catering because I’d always wanted to be a chef.
“I was so sure about it in secondary school, but once I started, I realised it wasn’t for me. I preferred baking over cooking, so I began looking at other options.”
Liahna had a look at her available options, where she had interviews for a childcare apprenticeship and health vocational, where she discovered the nursing T Level course.
“What appealed to me about T Levels was the placement experience. It gave me the chance to work in real settings before committing to university. Normally, you’d only get that experience after uni, but this way, I could figure out early if it was right for me.
“My favourite placement was in my second year when I worked in the community. Every day was different – no two shifts were the same. I learned so much and loved being able to help people directly. In my first year, I was on the Princess Royal ward, and in my second year, I worked with the Shrewsbury Community Health NHS Trust, visiting patients’ homes with my nurse. That variety of scenarios I got to work in was amazing.
“Studying the T Level was challenging because we were the first cohort, but it was fun – we all learned together, and I made great friends. I enjoyed the practical sessions and the health-related subjects, even the more theory-based lessons.”
“Working in hospitality also taught me valuable communication skills. When you’ve handled angry customers in a busy pub, you learn how to stay calm and professional – skills that help in healthcare too!
After leaving the college, Liahna joined the University of Staffordshire, to study paramedic science. “I decided to become a paramedic because I preferred one-to-one care with the patients and the variety it brings. Also, being out in the community or on an ambulance feels more dynamic and positive.
“University is going well, though it’s intense. We cover one system one week and move to something completely different the next. Tuesdays are skills days, where we practice what we’ve learned. They throw us into scenarios, such as rescuing someone from a cramped space, and it’s fun because it tests your knowledge in a practical way.
“My ambulance placement starts in February, and honestly, I’m nervous. I’ll have more responsibility, like administering certain medications, and that’s scary – especially since I don’t like needles! But I know I’ll have to step up in critical situations like cardiac arrests. I think instinct will kick in when it matters most.”
When asked what advice she would give to her former self, Liahna says it’s important to have no regrets and believe in yourself. “I don’t regret doing Catering because I still love cooking and baking, but I wish I’d had more confidence. I always wanted to be a paramedic, but I didn’t think it was realistic. It seemed like it would take forever. I’d tell myself to just go for it.”
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