Mum of three graduates with distinction realising lifelong dream of becoming a nurse

University of Wolverhampton student, Amal Hassan, crossed the stage at the University of Wolverhampton at the Halls on Wednesday 28 January, graduating with Distinction in Master of Adult Nursing (MAN), marking the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition.

Amal, 34, from Birmingham, has always wanted to be a nurse. But achieving it required determination, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment while raising three children and balancing work, placements, and study.

Reflecting on her drive and inspiration, Amal explains: “I’m naturally a caring person, and every time I interacted with nurses, especially when by children were born, I thought I want to be like them - because of how gentle and caring they were.”

Amal began her journey studying Health and Social Care with the Open University, using it as a stepping-stone, while working two jobs and raising her children, now aged 17, 14 and 4. Without formal GCSEs in English and Maths, she studied for them alongside her degree to gain the qualifications needed for nursing.

“It wasn’t easy. There were days I didn’t see my youngest at all because of placement shifts. But helping someone recover makes it worth it.”

Amal credits her lecturers for their constant guidance and compassion, describing their support as “incredible” and key to her success.

“No problem was ever too big or too small. They gave us their time, gave us so much to take away and research, and helped us believe we could do it.”

One standout moment was the badging ceremony in September 2025, a student organised event which symbolises the transition of the students into professional nurses. Amal describes this as the moment everything finally felt complete. “It was the cherry on top. That was when I thought “I did it”.”

Amal now works as a Community Public Health Nurse, caring for young children. Although she trained in Adult Nursing, a placement in school nursing opened her eyes to the benefits of community-based work and she appreciates the work–life balance it offers while her youngest is still small.

Long term, she plans to return to Adult Nursing in a GP or community setting and undertake further qualifications.

“My goal is to become an independent prescriber and eventually a nurse practitioner. I just need a little time to settle before the next step, but I’ll be back.”

Graduation is bittersweet for Amal. A recent family bereavement means celebrations are quieter than planned, but she says attending the ceremony with her two elder children still feels profoundly meaningful.

“This is my moment. My husband encouraged me to come because he knew how hard I’ve worked. Crossing that stage means everything.”

Amal is candid about the intensity of the programme, especially for parents or those working alongside their studies, but says it is achievable with organisation and support.

Her advice to other students juggling a busy schedule: “Plan ahead and be organised, batch-cook, structure your week, make study part of your life. And take support when it’s offered, even if it’s hard to accept. It’s not a course for the weak, but it’s worth it.”

She wholeheartedly recommends the programme to anyone with the ambition to pursue nursing. “If you want it, go for it. The journey is hard, but the reward, helping people and becoming the nurse you dreamed of being, is incredible.”

Tracy Lapworth, Programme leader Master of Adult Nursing, PGDip Adult Nursing said: “Nursing is a fantastic career with so many pathways available, follow your dream and take the next step!

“Our 2-year accelerated Master’s course welcomes applicants with care experience and an honours degree in any subject.

“Our 1 year PGDip course, provides existing NMC registrants with the opportunity to gain a second registration in Adult or Mental health nursing.

“We are all incredibly proud of our graduates and the difference they go on to make in the delivery of person-centred care, they will always remain part of our postgraduate nursing family.”

Anyone interested in exploring a Postgraduate, Pre-registration Master’s Degree in Adult or Mental health nursing, or gaining a PGDip and a second registration in either Adult or Mental health nursing should visit: School of Nursing and Midwifery