From student nurse to research nurse: Gloria Sikapite’s journey

When Gloria Sikapite enrolled on the Adult Nursing degree at the University of Hertfordshire, she knew she wanted a career that would make a difference. Today, she is doing exactly that as a Research Nurse at the East and North Hertfordshire Teaching NHS Trust, helping patients access clinical trials that could shape the future of healthcare.

In her role, Gloria identifies patients who may be eligible to take part in research studies, guiding them through the consent process and explaining what participation involves. She also helps collect and report data to trial sponsors, contributing to evidence that could improve treatments and patient care.

For Gloria, the foundations for this career were laid at Herts.

“My leadership skills really started at university,” she says. “It helped me discover the kind of leader I wanted to be and gave me the confidence to step outside my comfort zone and handle situations I might previously have found daunting.”

A key part of her learning experience was the University’s focus on evidence-based practice and cutting-edge research.

“The University encouraged us to stay at the forefront of the latest research and taught us how to use that knowledge in practice,” Gloria explains. “I remember meeting the research team before my placement and being amazed by the impact their published work had on patient care. It showed me how important research is in nursing.”

One of Gloria’s favourite aspects of the course was the hands-on simulation training.

“I’m a very visual learner, so simulations were the best part of the course for me,” she says. “They helped me build confidence and prepare for real-life situations.”

Looking back, Gloria believes her degree gave her the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in the profession.

“My degree prepared me for what was to come,” she says. “It prepared me for life outside the University and for being a nurse.”

Today, Gloria is helping to advance healthcare through research while supporting patients at every stage of their journey – a role that reflects the values and skills she developed during her time at Herts.

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