Avril is passionate about giving her fellow Open University students a voice within the RCN. She has a clear understanding about the issues they are facing and passionately advocates for their needs.
On being commended at RCN Congress in Brighton yesterday (Sunday 14 May), for her work as an RCN Student Ambassador, Avril said:
“It’s so exciting to have been commended. I am very passionate about trying to make sure all nursing students have a voice in the RCN and during their studies. I must thank the Open University for supporting me in taking on the Student Ambassador role, I really could not continue it without that support and it shows the university understands the importance of the role too. I also thank the RCN for supporting me – the role has been a great way for me to make the most of my RCN membership. I firmly believe the role of the RCN Student Ambassador has a lot to offer in helping nursing students navigate what is one of the most demanding but also rewarding courses in our universities.”
RCN Scotland Director Colin Poolman said:
“This is a thoroughly deserved recognition for Avril. She never wastes an opportunity to speak to students and staff about the benefits of RCN membership and encourage them to join. Despite juggling being an OU nursing student with working full time as a healthcare support worker, Avril is full of ideas and enthusiasm. She truly embodies her RCN ambassador role.”