Amanda Jeffries – BSc Midwifery

At 41-years-old, Amanda Jeffries from Ellon in Aberdeenshire has proven that it’s never too late to chase your goals. After graduating from Robert Gordon University (RGU) with a BSc in Midwifery, she’s now working as a newly qualified midwife with NHS Grampian, a role she once thought was out of reach.

“Since I had my first child at the age of 18, I dreamed of becoming a midwife. But I always thought it was just an ambition I would never be able to achieve.”

Her fascination with pregnancy and childbirth only grew stronger over the years.

“I was the birthing partner for two of my friends, and that was when I knew being a midwife was something I wanted to turn into a reality.”

For years, family life made pursuing higher education seem impossible. With her husband working abroad and four children at home, university wasn’t an option until the COVID-19 pandemic unexpectedly changed everything.

“When the pandemic hit, my husband returned home to work, and that’s when I decided I would pursue my calling. At 36, I went back and did my highers so I could apply to study midwifery at RGU.”

The journey wasn’t easy, but Amanda’s determination paid off and choosing RGU was a no-brainer.

“I applied to RGU as soon as applications opened, and it felt like the longest wait to get an interview and my offer. But when it came, it was one of the best moments of my life. As I had children at home, RGU was local to me, and most of the academic part of the course was hybrid, which fitted perfectly with family life.”

Now, looking back on her studies, she reflects fondly on her university experience.

“I loved my time at RGU and have made friends for life. The mix of lectures, in-person clinical skills and placements in various areas was brilliant. The lecturers made the course so interactive and were incredibly supportive throughout the three years.”

Her hard work has led to a fulfilling career close to home.

“I’ve been lucky to secure a job as a newly qualified midwife in NHS Grampian, and I’m loving every minute taking care of women and their babies.”

Her time at RGU became a true family affair, as her son also graduated from the University last year with a BA in Business with Marketing.

One of the most rewarding aspects of her training was building relationships with women she supported through pregnancy, birth and beyond.

“I really enjoyed recruiting my own mini caseload of women whom I followed throughout their pregnancy. I attended their births and provided postnatal care. Those relationships were extra special, and I’ll never forget them for allowing me to be part of their journey into motherhood.

“I’m bursting with pride that I’ve achieved my dream of becoming a midwife.”