Emily Bracken, a dedicated student pursuing a Paramedic Science degree at the University of Gloucestershire, has been named Student of the Year by the South Western Ambulance Service Foundation NHS Trust. This prestigious award recognizes her exceptional contributions to the Buddy Project, which aims to support students transitioning through their academic journey in paramedicine.
The Buddy Project, developed over the past year, prepares third-year students to act as mentors while providing first-year students with critical insights into the practical skills they will acquire throughout their course. With its rollout scheduled for this term, the project promises to enhance the educational experience for new paramedic students by fostering a supportive learning environment.
Bracken expressed her surprise at receiving the award, stating she was in "complete shock" upon hearing the news. The recognition has ignited a renewed passion within her. She shared that it has made her "excited for [her] future and inspired to achieve more."
Reflecting on her own educational journey, Bracken acknowledged the challenges faced during her transition from first to second year. "I found the transition from the first year to the second year extremely challenging, with such a significant academic jump as well as the addition of the new practical skills to learn," she said. This experience motivated her to create the Buddy Project, aimed at easing similar transitions for future students.
The Buddy Project not only focuses on academic development but also emphasizes safe simulation practice of clinical skills, allowing students to develop vital leadership abilities. Bracken credits her best friend and fellow third-year students for their invaluable support, saying they helped her "massively" cope with the changes.
As an aspiring paramedic, Bracken's commitment to improving patient healthcare outcomes through her project aligns with the overarching goals of the paramedic profession. The South Western Ambulance Service Foundation NHS Trust's recognition of her work underscores the impact of initiatives like the Buddy Project on student learning and patient care.
