Emma McGowan

Emma decided she wanted to be a nurse after her father died of cancer. She qualified in 2007 and has progressed her career without compromising on the things that drew her to nursing in the first place.

Emma says:

“I had planned to be a teacher. I had a place at University but decided not to go after seeing my father die of cancer. My move into nursing was a decision based on emotion. I qualified as an adult nurse initially and then became a community nurse. Then I completed my district nursing degree a few years ago. 

"I received amazing support from my line manager to get where I am today. She supported my decision to complete my district nurse degree in under 12 months and endorsed my study leave in order to achieve this. Although it was an intense year it actually turned out to be a great option for me, as my children were at that age where I had more time to focus on my career. 

"I loved the degree, and I moved up from a Band 6 district nurse to Band 7, which meant I was a Sister with the potential to move into management, which I did. An opportunity arose to work part-time on the national standardisation of nursing documentation - this allowed me to gain experience working at an All-Wales level and I have since been appointed as the health board’s clinical lead informatics nurse. But, regardless of level, the single best thing about being a nurse where I am, is having the time to provide the kind of quality care that attracted me to nursing originally. This means the level of care we are able to provide is extremely high. 

"I’ve been based in Powys my whole career. The Brecon Beacons are on my doorstep and it’s great to bring up the children in an area that offers such a great work-life balance. Everyone is so friendly, and we have a fantastic community spirit. 

"I’d recommend nursing to anyone who’s serious about it, especially in Wales. As I’ve found out, nursing is a genuine career option these days. I have forged a good career at a pace that’s suited me, and I’ve learnt you can always rely on support to help you reach your goals.”