Colin Cruickshank – Mental Health Nursing student

Colin Cruickshank is a 25-year-old student studying BSc Mental Health Nursing at Glasgow Caledonian University.

He also works as a part-time nursing assistant in forensic mental health assisting with the management and treatment of offenders with mental health issues.

Colin decided to study nursing after working as an assistant in forensic mental health. The work inspired him so much that he applied to do a nursing degree to help him progress to a fully registered mental health nurse. Colin enjoys caring for people and seeing the positive impact he can have on people’s lives.

He loves his job and would highly recommend a nursing degree to young people thinking about what career path to take. He also hopes to reduce the stigma of male nurses and inspire young men into the profession.

“I enjoy caring for people and helping them in their recovery journey from being admitted to discharged.

“It’s rewarding seeing the difference and positive impact you can have on someone’s life.

“I do work placements all over Glasgow in a range of fields such as forensic, adolescent, older adult and community based. I studied at Glasgow College-Cardonald Campus part-time while working as a nursing assistant. Obtaining a Higher National Certificate from this College allowed me to go straight into second year at University to study nursing.

“Like all jobs, it can be challenging but I thrive on the variety and with the different placements available, I will be able to build experience and confidence to work in different mental health surroundings.

“My days involve going to University or on placement, going to the gym, working part-time at weekends and enjoying spending my free time with friends.”

Colin’s advice to anyone considering working in healthcare

“I would 100% recommend a nursing degree for young people still deciding their future path. I would advise either going straight from school or finding experience in a health care setting first.

“Also, research shows there is a shortage of male nurses. Although there can be a stigma around men working in this profession, I couldn’t recommend the job more and I’m excited about what the future holds.”

Colin and fellow Mental Health Nursing student Kirsty share how their degree course gives them the opportunity to put the knowledge they learn in lectures directly into practical experience with patients.