Beauty therapist from Mold swaps salon for student nursing journey
A Mold mum-of-two is inspiring others to pursue a career change after swapping beauty therapy for nursing.
Sarah Burkhill, 36, is in her first year of an Adult Nursing degree at Wrexham University, following years of wanting to retrain as a nurse.
Having previously worked in beauty therapy and hospitality management, Sarah had long dreamed of entering the nursing profession but felt the timing was never quite right.
After being made redundant from her previous role, she finally decided to “take the leap” and apply for the degree.
“Studying nursing has been a long-time ambition of mine, but it always felt slightly out of reach,” said Sarah. “When I was made redundant a couple of years ago, I realised I had to bite the bullet and apply, or I never would.”
Sarah admitted that the decision to retrain had been daunting at first. “I worried about financial security, how I’d juggle family life, study, and placements. But now that I’ve taken the leap, I couldn’t feel more excited to qualify and officially start my career as a nurse. Every time you’re at work, you know you’re making a difference in people’s lives.”
Since starting her degree, Sarah says her life has changed significantly for the better. “I feel like I’m a better mum because studying nursing is teaching me to communicate more effectively and be more patient,” she said.
“I also think my previous experience in beauty therapy helps me take a more holistic approach to patient care, considering the whole person—their physical, mental, and social needs.”
Sarah credits her mother Patsy, who was diagnosed with lung cancer, with giving her the final push she needed to begin her nursing journey.
“My mum’s diagnosis put things into perspective, and her words of encouragement made me realise I needed to go for it,” she explained.
“Mum once told me that when she was being cared for by nurses at Glan Clwyd, she could see me in them. That really stopped me in my tracks.”
Sarah’s experience at Wrexham University has been overwhelmingly positive, with strong support from lecturers and fulfilling placements.
“My first year has been wonderful – from the course to the placements and the incredible support from my lecturers,” she said.
“It’s the best decision I’ve ever made. My advice to anyone considering a career in nursing is to go for it. Apply for the degree and start this exciting journey.”
Alison Lester-Owen, Principal Lecturer and Professional Lead for Nursing at Wrexham University’s St Asaph campus, praised Sarah’s journey and dedication.
“Changing careers to undertake a nursing degree is one of the bravest and most inspiring steps anyone can take,” she said.
“Sarah’s positive and compassionate approach is just one of many factors that will make her an incredible nurse. We are very proud of what she has achieved so far, as we are with all our student nurses.”
She added: “The enthusiasm and dedication of our students is incredibly humbling and makes me proud to do this job. Educating our future nurses and building our local workforce is a great privilege.”
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