Each year, the College presents a very special prize to a student who has excelled academically during their time at college.
This year, the prize is awarded to HNC Health Practice graduate, Sheree McNeil.
Sheree, 35, is described by lecturers and fellow students as caring and compassionate, and it’s fair to also say an expert multitasker as Sheree fitted college studies around looking after her 6 children, who range from 5 to 18!
Sheree had always been interested in nursing but didn’t feel she had the confidence and was a busy mum raising her children – so put studying on the back burner. After attending an Open Day, and discussing her options with friendly lecturers, Sheree decided to take the first step towards her dream career and started studying at our Clydebank Campus.
Beginning on a Level 5 Health and Social Care course, Sheree admitted to feeling slightly apprehensive attending college as a mature student however wouldn’t let these worries hold her back in pursuing her dream career path within healthcare and hasn’t looked back since.
On top of balancing college work and childcare, Sheree commented on how her dyslexia made her studies more difficult to begin with. However after receiving additional support from the college, with various provisions put in place, things quickly became easier.
Holding a keen interest around the human anatomy, Sheree excelled during her 12-week work experience placement in the Neurological Rehab Unit at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital where her mentor described her as a professional, person-centred individual. The staff in the ward described Sheree as a great team player who was always very keen to learn new things stating she will make a great nurse in the future.
Now, progressing onto Glasgow Caledonian University, to study Paediatric Child Nursing, Sheree’s energy and dedication is to be admired, and is clear to see her passion for helping others will be an invaluable asset in her nursing career.
Proving to be a strong role model to not only her children, but fellow students alike, Sheree passed on her advice to anyone thinking of applying to college,
“Everyone should just follow their dreams. No matter what age you are, any disabilities, follow your dreams and you can achieve them with the right support”.
Sheree continued, “Take your time with everything, and definitely speak to everyone, speak with the lecturers they’re there for you, they really support and encourage you and massively help along your college journey.
I’d highly recommend West College Scotland it’s been absolutely amazing, so much support and all the lecturers are really great”.
CQL for Health & Social Care Therese Shearer commented: “Sheree is selfless, nurturing and is always there to offer support to other students in the class. I know that she will continue this high standard on to her university course as a Paediatric nurse.
We all wish her the very best for the future”.