Glaswegian student named as Nursing Student of the Year

Sponsored by Glasgow Caledonian University, the award recognises those who have shown exceptional promise during their professional education or practice placement, deserving recognition for exceptional achievement during their studies. 

Connall’s nomination focussed on his exceptional resilience and compassion, balancing multiple jobs, academic studies, clinical placements, and volunteer work. Inspired by paramedics who cared for him and his experiences as a barman witnessing medical emergencies, he chose nursing to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Through his work with Glasgow Street Aid and intensive care placements, Connall has saved lives and delivered person-centred, trauma-informed care to vulnerable patients. Widely recognised for his professionalism, empathy, and leadership, he embodies the core values of nursing and is tipped to become an outstanding future intensive care nurse.

The judges praised Connall’s commitment to embodying the best of nursing, and his holistic and person-centred care, in his interactions with patients, often in complex and unpredictable environments. Head judge, Jacqui Neil, said: “Connall has shown throughout the judging process that he will make an excellent registered nurse. The additional volunteering, supporting universities and colleges to encourage more people into nursing, as well as his approach to his studies shows how determined he is to be the best nurse he can be.”

Celebrating Connall’s win, Colin Poolman, RCN Scotland Executive Director said: “Nursing is an extremely rewarding career, but it takes determination and years of study to be part of, if you’ll pardon my bias, the best profession in the world. It’s clear that Connall has what it takes and I look forward to seeing the great things he is sure to do in the future. A very deserving winner.”

Congratulations also go to our runner up Omar Arshad, Former Nursing Student with University of Dundee, and our highly commended Katie Walker, Former Nursing Student with Robert Gordon University.

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