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The path to achieving a lifelong dream
Biddy Mason has come to NMIT as a solo mum and mature student, dedicated to achieving her lifelong dream of working in the healthcare sector.
Biddy Mason, a second-year nursing student at Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT), is part of the inaugural cohort studying remotely from Blenheim.
Biddy has come to NMIT as a solo mum and mature student, dedicated to achieving her lifelong dream of working in the healthcare sector.
On the path to achieving a lifelong dream
Like many others, Biddy has not followed a traditional route to studying nursing. After high school, she travelled the world, spent time in Australia and explored various careers including pharmacy, the travel industry and real estate. She eventually moved back to Blenheim and had her son, Blake, who is now eight years old. She intends to stay in the region while he’s at school.
When the option to study nursing from the Blenheim campus via a blended delivery model was launched, Biddy jumped at the chance to apply.
“I’ve always wanted to do nursing,” Biddy says. “I think I’m suited to healthcare – I don’t get flustered in stressful situations and I like being hands-on. I’ve always been the designated first aid person in my previous workplaces.”
“It wasn’t an option until now, because I didn't want to move out of Blenheim. When it was offered in Marlborough, I decided to go for it.”
Because she’d been out of education for a while, Biddy completed the Certificate in Study and Career Preparation course prior to starting the degree programme. It was just what she needed to get back into the routine of studying.
“I was a bit hesitant about the prep course, wondering if it was just for younger people. But it helped so much in getting me focused on studying. It covered things like referencing and the science aspects of nursing. It gave me a real head start - I think it should be compulsory for everyone.”
Biddy is this year’s recipient of the Zonta Club Marlborough’s NMIT Scholarship, which offers $1000 towards her fees.
“The scholarship has alleviated some of the financial pressure,” she says.
The Zonta Club Marlborough Scholarship supports women returning to study with NMIT at the Marlborough Campus, to improve their educational and financial position to enhance their future.
Remote learning with a twist
The option to study in Blenheim allows learners to complete much of their coursework online. They have access to virtual classrooms together, connecting with academic staff in Nelson via video linking software. Students have full access to the Blenheim campus facilities and support services and travel intermittently to Nelson for hands-on activities and assessments. Biddy and her seven classmates commute together in an NMIT supplied van for these in-person sessions.
“The remote learning model works well for me. I’ve got to know my classmates really well and we all support each other,” she says.
“Travelling to Nelson for face-to-face classes has been a key part of the experience. Although it requires coordination and effort, the support from NMIT has been excellent.”
Biddy appreciates the help from NMIT’s learner services team and the student association, SANITI.
“SANITI has supported me and others in the class with funding advice, and fuel and grocery vouchers. The library team in Nelson has also been a great resource for referencing assistance,” she says.
Biddy acknowledges the challenges of being a mature student and solo parent.
“The timetable can be demanding, and adapting to self-directed learning requires a lot of initiative. It’s important to be proactive and use resources like Moodle [the student portal] and tutor support effectively,” she says.
Looking ahead
After completing the three-year degree next year, Biddy plans to remain in Blenheim and is considering specialising in mental health. Her recent placement in that field was particularly fulfilling.
“Building relationships with whānau and patients has been rewarding. I’m also interested in working with youth; there are roles in Plunket or pediatrics, for example. Nursing is not just shift work!” she says.
“The journey is demanding, but it’s worth it. I encourage anyone thinking about applying to just do it! If I can navigate these challenges, others can too. It’s about problem-solving, seeking help when needed and just putting in the work.”
