“Success for me is that despite a hard day at work, difficult cases or demanding patients, I want to go back there again and face another challenge. It is not the money or prestige, but professional satisfaction and fulfilment. (...)”

What is your best memory of studying at the Jagiellonian University?

There are many interesting memories. Of the university, internships in hospitals, life in dormitories. The memory of the last is related to my time in the Student Board of Medical Academies. One of the most interesting memories is taking part in a student exchange (Erasmus Internship). We (me and two other midwifery students) were the first to be admitted for an internship to a hospital in Cyprus. A journey full of amazing experiences that shows a completely different view of midwifery.

How did your professional career start? What were the turning points?

Unfortunately, after completing my Master’s studies, I couldn't find a job in Poland, but I’d always been interested in the English obstetrics system. And, importantly, the greater autonomy for midwives. That's why I decided to leave. I filled the necessary paperwork to work as a midwife abroad. In Great Britain, the key is to have a PIN number – that is, registration with the British Chamber of Nurses and Midwives (NMC).

How has your education contributed to the development of your professional career?

Without education, I would not have been able to get this job. Education at a Polish university was recognized and placed on an equivalent level with others.

Please tell us about your current job. What do you do now?

Currently, I work in a private hospital in London - The Portland Hospital. It is the only completely private and most prestigious hospital in Great Britain. I look after my patients both during and after childbirth.

What are or were your biggest challenges?

The biggest challenge after coming to England was the medical language, the local “abbreviations” referring to various medical procedures. But the job itself was also a challenge, as well as the great autonomy associated with it and great responsibility.

What is your definition of success?

Hmm... Success for me is that despite a hard day at work, difficult cases or demanding patients, I want to go back there again and face another challenge. It is not the money or prestige, but professional satisfaction and fulfilment.

What advice/guidance do you have for current students who are entering the job market?

No matter what course you chose at the beginning of your studies, sometimes life will guide you in such a way that you will take a different path, but the intellectual and personal development acquired at university will always be important.

How do you imagine the Jagiellonian University’s cooperation with graduates?

First of all, it is important to keep in touch with graduates, follow their professional paths, organize meetings/conferences/classes to allow for graduate/student contact.

What can Jagiellonian University graduates expect?

It depends on the graduate. Certainly, the university’s contact with graduates after graduation is always well received.