We spoke to Laura, who recently completed a nursing placement with MSI UK at our West London clinic. She explained her favourite moments, the skills she learnt and even gave some tips for any future placement students!
“My colleagues were amazing at supporting me and taking me on as a new team member.”
What brought you to doing a placement with MSI UK?
My university allocated me the placement with MSI UK. When I found out I was extremely happy because I want to work in women’s health when I qualify.
Could you explain the main responsibilities you had during your placement?
I had the opportunity to work in all areas, including; admissions, medical abortion appointments, time in theatre and recovery for surgical abortions, LARC (long-acting reversible contraception) and on the ward too. As I was a third-year student, after completing the relevant training, I also had the opportunity to support with appointments under direct supervision of my practice supervisor.
What was the most rewarding moment during your placement?
My most rewarding moment was supporting the clients if they were going through a difficult time. My favourite moment was creating a bond with all the staff members and being valued as part of their team.
Did you have any challenges whilst working here? How did you overcome them?
There were no specific challenges, but if there was anything I did struggle with I had the support of all members of the team which was amazing.
How do you feel aligned with MSI UK’s mission and values?
I am very aligned with the mission and values that MSI have. I fully agree with ‘Your choice, our support’. There are many reasons why people chose to access care, and no-one deserves to be judged for it.
Did your experience help you to learn more about reproductive healthcare in the UK?
Yes, 100%. One specific example from my experience on placement was learning more about all the different contraceptive methods that are out there.
How would you describe the work environment and culture?
The work environment was amazing. My colleagues were amazing at supporting me and taking me on as a new team member. They included me in all staff training, meetings and just generally made me feel so welcome!
What were the key skills and experience that you gained on this placement?
The key skill I learnt with MSI was how to work in theatre and how to conduct different types of appointments such as medical abortions and LARC (long-acting reversible contraception).
What advice would you give to future placement students coming to work at MSI UK?
Be open-minded. It can challenge you, but if you do have any struggles please speak up to a colleague. It’s okay to not know everything – you’re there to learn and everyone will help where they can.
Has your placement influenced your decision on what you’d like to do in the future?
Yes, when I qualify, I would love and have the aim to work for MSI UK!
Read more from our colleagues
At MSI UK, we love interviewing our colleagues to find out more about their work and how their roles contribute to our mission to deliver quality reproductive healthcare. You can read some of our latest interviews here.
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