Published: 21 August 2024
Growing up as a first-generation immigrant from the Philippines, in the coastal city of Swansea, I was deeply inspired by my mother, an amazing hard-working NHS nurse. Her dedication and compassion for her patients not only instilled in me a profound respect for healthcare professionals, but also ignited my desire to contribute to the sector in my unique way.
Early in my psychology degree at Cardiff University, I realized that becoming a clinical psychologist wasn’t my calling. My interests lay elsewhere, and it wasn’t until my semester abroad at the University of Florida (Go Gators!) that my path became clearer. A module on the psychology of sustainability captivated me. The course opened my eyes to the intersection of environmental sustainability and human well-being, revealing a career path that was both environment-focused and people-driven. This revelation was a turning point, solidifying my resolve to make a difference in the field of sustainability.
As I approached the final year of my degree, I found myself at a crossroads, unsure if there was a career opportunity that aligned with my values and passions. My uncertainty faded when I stumbled upon an 8-week internship opportunity with HEIW on the careers page of Cardiff University. At first, I hesitated. With no previous connections or a formal qualification in environmental science, I doubted whether I would be considered. But my passion for sustainability and my diverse experiences propelled me forward, encouraging me to apply and hope that the interviewers would see my genuine commitment.
To my delight, they did. Sometimes, life takes unexpected turns that lead to remarkable destinations. This internship has been one of those unexpected yet incredibly rewarding turns, allowing me to merge my love for sustainability with my desire to make a tangible impact on healthcare. As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded that while the path may not always look like what we envision, it often leads us to where we are meant to be.
Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW) is dedicated to developing a healthier workforce in Wales. This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to join their Planning and Performance team as a Sustainability Intern, contributing to impactful projects like the relaunch of the internal sustainability page and content creation on sustainability within healthcare.
During my internship, I embarked on a journey that was as much about personal discovery as it was about professional development. The experience allowed me to delve deep into the intricacies of sustainability within the healthcare sector. More importantly, it taught me resilience, adaptability, and the power of collaboration. Each day presented new challenges, but it was through these challenges that I learned the most valuable lessons.
The support I received from HEIW was nothing short of phenomenal. From regular mentoring sessions to collaborative workshops, every interaction was designed to enhance my learning experience. This nurturing environment allowed me to thrive and explore my potential fully. It was a space where ideas were encouraged, and every team member's contribution was valued. It has reshaped my perspective on career opportunities within the NHS. I came to understand that a career in healthcare does not necessarily mean working in a clinical role. There are countless avenues where one can make a meaningful impact, especially in areas like sustainability.
I am immensely thankful to HEIW for this life-changing opportunity. The experience has been transformative, instilling in me a renewed sense of purpose and direction. Sometimes, life takes unexpected turns, and this internship has led me to a path filled with promise and potential. I look forward to applying what I’ve learned in my future endeavours, with a heart full of gratitude and a mind set on making a difference.