L-R Taylah Hampton and Misty Hampton
Pursuing a degree in nursing is a commitment that requires grit, determination, and most importantly, support.
For mum, Misty, and daughter, Taylah Hampton, they quickly realised there was no one better to share that journey with than their biggest supporter – each other.
Misty's interest in healthcare started in high school. Due to growing up in regional Western Australia, and with no intention of moving close to the city, Misty dismissed the idea of ever pursuing a university education.
It was only years later when Misty, now married, a mother of two, and living in Perth, reconnected with her dream and applied to study nursing at Edith Cowan University (ECU).
Overcoming adversity
"Taylah is my firstborn, and at the age of approximately six weeks old, she was hospitalised with osteomyelitis," Misty said.
Misty was by Taylah's side in hospital for more than three months while different antibiotics were administered.
"I stayed with her 24/7 and found myself inspired by the nursing staff. It reignited my desire to become a nurse. But at the time, I thought studying at university would be the same as school, Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 3:00pm," she said.
How could I possibly do that with a new baby?
"It wasn't until many years later that I learned just how flexible studying at ECU can be."
The perfect path to make a positive difference
Taylah has wanted to be a nurse since Year 3. When she completed high school Taylah enrolled in a Bachelor of Science (Nursing) at ECU. She said her chosen profession aligns with her innate desire to care for others.
"I'm outgoing and compassionate, and I love building connections with others," Taylah said.
"Nursing felt like the perfect path where I could use those qualities to make a real difference in people's lives.
"Finishing the degree has given me confidence in myself and has shown me that I'm capable of handling challenges and growing into the nurse I've always wanted to become."
Growing and learning together
Studying with a family member is a unique and special experience – particularly alongside a parent.
"Of course, it's had its ups and downs. We don't always agree on everything, but overall, I wouldn't have wanted to go through this journey with anyone else," Taylah said.
"Having mum by my side has meant I always had someone who truly understood the challenges of the degree, both academically and emotionally."
Managing a personal relationship alongside their individual study journeys provided an opportunity for growth, communication, and understanding.
"We're both very similar and our competitive side came out a few times, and having to reign that in along the way was challenging at times," Misty said.
"One of the biggest challenges for me along the way was balancing the demands of study with the rest of my life," Taylah added.
"There were times when the workload felt overwhelming, especially during placements and exams, and I had to learn how to manage my time effectively."
From ECU student to employed nurse
Having succeeded in realising their goals, building strong friendships and making professional connections, since graduating both Misty and Taylah have gained employment with graduate placements at Sir Charles Gardener Hospital.
To anyone considering a career in nursing, both mother and daughter recommend applying to study at ECU.
"The support for students is great, and it really makes a difference when you need that bit of extra help. We've both built some amazing friendships and felt part of a community," Misty said.
"The facilities at ECU are great. The workshops and equipment are modern and very similar to what is used in the real world and there are plenty of chances to connect with workplaces – which is a big help for future employment," Taylah said.
Interested in a career in nursing? Visit www.ecu.edu.au/nursing
For more information about the benefits of ECU's alumni network, visit the Alumni webpage.
