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Tara Moynihan
Meet Tara, a mental health nursing student at Liverpool John Moore University.
My career journey...
When I finished my A-levels, I started working for my local NHS Trust in the Learning and Development Team. I worked non-clinically, recruiting apprentices and organising work experience for students who wanted to get into healthcare. Due to the nature of my job, my manager told me to get work experience myself in clinical areas to gain a greater insight on roles within healthcare, so I spent time in departments such as radiography, theatres, dietetics and occupational therapy. I led on projects such as ‘get into the NHS’ programmes with the local schools, attended career events and worked with the prince's trust. I then took some time to travel, but when I got back, I didn’t want to go back to an office job, so I started to work on a mental health ward. This was the best decision for me. I enjoyed the fast-paced atmosphere, the people and learning about mental health. As my passion for mental health grew, I decided to apply for university so I could progress my career within healthcare.
About me...
My spare time...
I am new to Liverpool, so I enjoy hiking, exploring Wales and the Lake District which I'm grateful to now have on my doorstep.
My favourite book...
I love to read, my favourite books are the Daughter of the Dragon Series.
My feel good song...
My feel-good song is Rip Tide – Vance Joy, it reminds me of travelling, and being by the beach.
Looking after my mental wellbeing...
To look after my well-being, I enjoy taking walks, especially by the sea as that is where I feel at home. I also do yoga and exercise classes which helps keep me relaxed.
I am a massive advocate for work experience, so I believe it is essential to work in health care before applying. It can be daunting arriving on the ward for the first time as it is busy and there is a lot going on but if you are pro-active then you will get the best out of the experience.