Eireann Hudner

Paramedic, St John
Bachelor of Health Science in Paramedicine

She had long wanted to become a paramedic, says Eireann Hudner who completed her Bachelor of Health Science in Paramedicine in 2021 and is now a paramedic for St John.

“I wanted to have a career that excites and challenges me. As a paramedic every day is different, and you get to meet so many different people. I’d definitely recommend AUT’s paramedicine degree to others. This programme has a great balance of theoretical and practical components, and all of the lecturers are so helpful and supportive.”

What she loved most about her studies was experiencing life as a paramedic through the clinical placements at a variety of places including frontline ambulances, primary healthcare facilities and hospitals.

“I really enjoyed being able to attend the clinical placements throughout my degree. You can interact with patients in real-life situations and put the skills you learn in class to use, as well as work alongside ambulance officers and other health professionals. This is where you gain the experience for life as a paramedic after university and make valuable connections.”

From Gisborne to AUT
Growing up in Gisborne, Eireann got her first taste of AUT life on a visit to Auckland when she was in high school.

“I was lucky enough to visit AUT while I was still in school. The staff I met at AUT were so welcoming and eager to show me all of the facilities available to students. That’s when I realised that AUT was the right university for me.”

Moving to Auckland from Gisborne was exciting, says Eireann whose studies were supported by a Significant Student Scholarship in her first two years at university.

“It was cool to move to a city that always has so many activities and events going on. I spent my first year in the Wellesley Student Apartments; one of the student accommodation complexes near the AUT City Campus. That made the move to Auckland much easier as I was able to live with hundreds of other students my age, as well as having the support of the residential assistants.”

Advice for other students
Eireann has some great advice for other students.

“My advice would be to make the most of tutorials. This is where you get the opportunity to practise your skills in a safe learning environment in small groups. Testing your skills in class might be the only time you get to practise before you have to do it on a real patient!”

Her other piece of advice is not to be afraid to ask questions.

“I’d also encourage you to ask your lecturers questions if you’re unsure about something. They’re always approachable and happy to help.”