Published: 13 December 2023
Oceanne Belle, University of Sunderland in London Health and Social Care (Top-Up) BSc student, was recently announced as the latest Omaze Prize Draw Winner which saw her win a £5m Chelsea town house. For Oceanne, though, completing her degree and taking the next step towards her ambition to become a paediatric nurse is what matters most.
A multi-million-pound win is certainly a life-changing moment, but for Oceanne the immediate priority is completing her top-up degree dissertation and a report on globalisation for her final course unit.
Reflecting on her incredible win, Oceanne says “It came as a pretty big shock but it’s starting to sink in.”
Speaking to Oceanne, who has continued to attend lecturers, it’s about getting the skills she needs - with the University of Sunderland in London – for the career she wants. She is, of course, incredibly excited to move into her new home early next year – “I will have my own place to live, which is fantastic! I am, though, determined to pursue my study and career ambitions.”
Oceanne, 49, was inspired to study health and social care after being looked after “incredibly well” by NHS staff following a period of ill health several years ago.
Her experience at the University of Sunderland in London has also been very positive, with Oceanne saying “I’ve enjoyed it so much – the staff are very supportive and approachable, they teach in such an accessible way.”
Looking ahead to the next step in her academic journey, Oceanne is hoping to start a Master’s degree with the University of Sunderland in London in spring 2024.
She added: “When I finish my top-up, I want to do my Master’s in Public Health before exploring a career in nursing. Becoming a paediatric nurse would be a dream come true."
Congratulating Oceanne, Stella Ikanik, Oceanne’s lecturer, said - “I am so pleased for Oceanne! Her commitment and dedication to her academic pursuits are evident, and I am confident that she will continue to be an asset to her future community and workplace.”
