Career role model: Karen Anthony
I wanted to care for people but not as a nurse (initially)! I got into nursing because I could not do Medicine back then. Several events orchestrated and confirmed my pathway into nursing; once I got in, I loved it with a passion and I've never looked back.
Karen is the Ward Manager of Gallery Ward 2
A bit about me
I am a Christian, wife, mother and friend. I love Gospel music and participate on the Praise team in my church. I love to cook. I am passionate about elderly care and people development.
Career path
I started as a bedside nurse in my home country, basically medical care, then did maternity and labour room nursing, outpatient consultations, and community nursing. I was a nursing tutor for 9 years prior to moving over to England. I was OSN for 6 months then qualified as Band 5, then Band 6 later on and now a Band 7 nurse. I’ve done my nursing work here and grown in the same department, Care of the Elderly.
Why this specialty?
No reason initially, was simply allocated to this specialty, however I was passionate about caring for elderly people, so I loved it.
What obstacles have you faced and overcome?
The weather and the food – I still haven’t overcome the food barrier!
Nursing has evolved and is practiced differently from when and where I trained. I had to adapt quickly to that. It was challenging initially to find out growth pathways and requirements. I have had to shadow my seniors and take on tasks that were above my grade to acquire experience, learn and grow.
Do you have any tips for interviews and career progression?
A love for the job always fuels growth and determines what extra miles one is willing to go.
Growth always requires investment in one’s self, in terms of courses and studies (lots available on the intranet), as well as activities to gain experience, such as shadowing staff, taking on extra duties or just being inquisitive!
For interviews, the main tip is to prepare (by experience, by attending interview skills training, talking with staff already in the desired positions)
What qualities are essential in your position?
Patience, Listening and communication skills, Flexibility.