Gemma Clydesdale

Registered Nurse and Associate Charge Nurse Manager, Dunedin Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Dunedin
Master of Health Science in Advanced Nursing Practice student
Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science in Child Health

She has always loved caring for babies and whānau, says Gemma Clydesdale who works at the Dunedin Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and enjoys using her nursing skills to support families.

“I love supporting and caring for whānau and their pēpi. It’s the most rewarding job in the world. There’s something so special about making a difference in the neonatal population. It just makes you love every minute of your job, despite the tough times you sometimes have.

“I was a baby in NICU at 31 weeks, so I always felt a connection to the neonatal realm, and when I started studying nursing, I just knew that I was supposed to work in the NICU. It was like it was the only path laid out for me. Making a difference for families is the best feeling in the world.”

Taking on postgraduate study
Because she wanted to make sure she could support families as best as she could, Gemma decided to take on postgraduate study in child health, which soon led her to AUT.

“I chose AUT because I heard about the excellent child health pathway they offer, and they’ve been absolutely amazing, particularly with the neonatal and child health courses. I also loved the many guest lecturers we had throughout my studies. They’ve been inspiring.

“I think it’s always difficult returning to study after being in the workplace, but I’ve never felt so much support within a university. I’ve never felt like any question was too dumb, and always felt supported. The library services at AUT are also really useful in helping you find your feet. The lecturers are super understanding when you have other commitments and can’t attend lectures. They’ve made the whole process seem very achievable, despite having a busy lifestyle.”

After completing her Postgraduate Diploma in Health Science in Child Health in 2023, Gemma decided to continue her studies with a Master of Health Science in Advanced Nursing Practice, focusing on the pathway towards becoming a nurse practitioner.

“When I was an undergraduate student, nurse practitioners were just starting to become more evident within the workforce. It always appeared to be an unachievable and difficult pathway, and I think that made me want it more. I love working in the NICU, and I want to be able to work at an advanced scope and make even more of a difference for whānau and their pēpi. I love the clinical side of work, alongside leadership and autonomy, so I figured that working towards becoming a nurse practitioner was the next natural step.”

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

“You got this! One step at a time is my motto. Looking at the bigger picture can be unrealistic and difficult sometimes, especially if you’re studying for a decent amount of time. Take one day at a time and plan ahead.

Make sure you put time aside for self-care, she adds.

“You need to prioritise self-care, especially if you’re choosing to work and study at the same time. It is absolutely do-able, but you need to make time for socialising, taking care of yourself and resting.”