Balancing family and dreams of a career in nursing

For Skye Walters, studying a Bachelor of Nursing at the University of Newcastle on the Central Coast is so much more than just ticking off a degree. It’s the next step in a lifelong dream to care for others and make a real difference.

“I have always been interested in nursing, particularly the clinical side,” she shares.

“I knew it would be a rewarding career and is extremely flexible with multiple avenues and specialties to experience and options for change.”

That passion first saw Skye begin her journey through the University’s free Open Foundation program, a pathway designed to help students develop the skills needed not only to gain entry, but to thrive at university and beyond. The program gave her the confidence to take that first big step toward her future career.

After completing the Open Foundation program, family came first. Skye hit pause on her education to focus on raising her two young children, but deep down, she knew her dream wasn’t over.

“Now my children were a little bit older, I decided it was time to apply and get the degree I still had a passion for,” she says.

Since returning to study, Skye has found her rhythm, and the Central Coast campus has played a big part in that.

“The campus has been so beneficial. It’s environment and facilities are very relaxing and motivating to study and offer a great space for study groups to build social connection throughout your degree,” she shares.

The practical side of the program has been a major highlight for Skye.

“The quality of education I am receiving has been extremely high,” she explains.

“Our Simulated Learning Environment (SLE) rooms are amazing and very realistic which made it easier on placement with that sense of familiarity. We use all relevant equipment and get to practice on life-like dolls or each other if appropriate, giving hands-on experience.”

Her clinical placements have been just as rewarding.

“My last placement at Wyong Hospital was incredible,” she says.

Balancing study and family life can be challenging, but Skye says the University’s support services have made a real difference.

“I utilised PASS (Peer Assisted Study Sessions) as I was unable to get to some face-to-face group sessions due to family commitments. They gave access online to anyone that couldn’t make it, so I was able to access the resources they recommended and the worksheets they provided,” she shares.

The extra support, combined with encouragement from tutors and peers, has helped Skye stay motivated and confident throughout her degree.

As the first in her family to attend university, Skye is proud of what she’s achieving, and of the example she’s setting for her children.

She plans to complete her nursing degree in 2026 and continue her journey by applying to study midwifery.

For anyone thinking about studying nursing, Skye’s message is simple and full of encouragement.

“Absolutely do it! The degree is fantastic; it is flexible and provides hands-on experience.”

With every class, placement, and study session, Skye is turning her passion into purpose. Her journey is proof that when you follow your heart, great things happen, for yourself, your family, and your future.

Our Simulated Learning Environment (SLE) rooms are amazing and very realistic which made it easier on placement with that sense of familiarity. We use all relevant equipment and get to practice on life-like dolls or each other if appropriate, giving hands-on experience.