Career role model: Chinenye Eze

Chi is a Clinical Nurse Educator at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital

Why Nursing?

I love to care for people, especially vulnerable people. It is so fulfilling to see people come in to the hospital poorly and after nursing them they can return home stronger and better.

Career path

I have specialised in a niche within Elderly Care, including clinical education and research

First job?

It has always been nursing!

Why this specialty?

Caring for people who because of their age and medical conditions cannot do what they would normally do and supporting them is so fulfilling for me.

What obstacles have you faced and overcome?

There is really nothing good that comes without its own challenges and obstacles. Initially it was the culture shock after relocating, as well as accent barriers.

Did you have a mentor or role model?

My role model is the Nigerian Writer Chimamanda Adiche. At the Trust, someone I respect so much and always spurs me to be better is Karr J Marie Garcia

Do you have any tips for interviews and career progression?

The first thing is to know what you want, don’t be afraid to go for your dream, don’t be afraid to apply for jobs no matter how high you think it is, or how inexperienced you think you are. For every “no” you get it does not take you backwards but rather it’s one step closer to your dream.

Prepare: let opportunities meet you prepared

Network with the right people who are going to where you are going or people who are where you want to be.

Keep at it, you may not be there yet but you will get there.

Remember that the impossible is the untried

What qualities are essential in your position?

Time management, people skills, ability to work under short deadlines

Why Gloucestershire?

To be honest it was not planned but since I came here it has been a home for me

Sum yourself up in 3 words:

Approachable, Sincere, Hardworking