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A DEDICATED student nurse from Aughnacloy has been shortlisted for a top UK-wide award, standing out as the only finalist from the North in her category.
Nicola Marshall, a final-year nursing student at Ulster University’s Magee campus, is in the running for Student Nurse of the Year: Adult at the Student Nursing Times Awards 2025.
Her nomination celebrates not only her academic achievements but also her longstanding commitment to patient care and community service.
Nicola began her journey at South West College (SWC) in Dungannon, completing both Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications, including the National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care.
Encouraged by her lecturers, she pursued her dream of becoming a nurse and is now completing her final 18-week placement before qualifying as a registered nurse.
“The support I received from the lecturers at SWC was fabulous,” Nicola said.
“They always encouraged me to follow my dream. I was a class representative and really enjoyed my time at the college.”
Her lecturers at Ulster University describe Nicola as an outstanding student who embodies the highest standards of nursing excellence, highlighting her dedication to professional growth and her compassion for patients.
They said, “Nicola stands out as an exceptional final-year pre-registration nurse who represents the highest standards of nursing excellence. Her journey through the nursing education demonstrates a remarkable commitment to patient care, professional development and community service.”
Nicola’s community involvement spans 19 years, including her work with local organisations and participation in humanitarian missions to Uganda, where she supported ongoing healthcare efforts.
Dr Alastair McCarley, Deputy Head of the Department for Health, Life and Personal Sciences at SWC, praised her success.
He said, “Nicola exemplified all the values we seek to instil in our students. Her passion was unwavering, and we’re proud to see her recognised on a national level.”
Aislinn Cassidy, Course Coordinator at SWC, added, “Nicola consistently showed professionalism, empathy, and academic excellence. It was a joy to teach her and watch her grow into the remarkable nurse she’s becoming.”
The winners will be announced at a ceremony in London on Friday, May 2.
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