So I finally arrived in Umeå yesterday about midday!
Luckily, Susanne, a member of nursing education staff here at the University picked me up from the airport and I receieved a really nice welcome from her. We then drove to the University, through the city which was a great chance to see a bit of the place. Umeå is beautiful and has so much greenspace! When I arrived at the University, I met Chatrin - another key member of nursing education staff. Yet again I was given a very warm welcome and signed a few peices of documentation.
Next, Chatrin and I took a short walk to the International office where I signed my housing contract and colllected my keys. While there I met Jennifer, the "Buddy Programme" co-ordinator. Unlike in Scotland, nursing education finishes for the summer just like the other degree courses. However, Jennifer knew about this and straight away connected me through facebook to some pages for finding bikes, talking to other students, and finding students who will also be in Umeå for the duration of the summer!
Next, I attended the ID photo office where I collected my student card.
Now, for the exciting part! ... I then met my clinical supervisor, Genny and agreed a time to meet up and chat with her. Then Chatrin and I walked through the university to the University hospital and got to the psychiatric unit of the hospital where I met my mentor, Helena. Helena had clearly put a lot of thought into my visit and we discussed what she had planned for me over the next seven weeks whilst I am working with her.
By the sounds of things I am going to be lucky enough to get to experience a wide range of mental health settings and work within an MDT. I also got my uniform - all white scrubs!!!! However, as at home, I will only where this in the ward and not in the community. It sounds as though my first placement will involve a lot of 1-2-1 time with service users and I will get to use my newly found counselling skills in a real environment which is nerve-racking but exciting!
Today I plan to try and buy a bike, which has proven to essential here i think I am the only person without one! and do a bit of exploring around the city. Later this afternoon I am meeting with Chatrin to register at the Uni library, and then I am going into town with Helena who is going to help me get hold of a Swedish SIM card and bus pass.
Eveyrone has really gone out of their way to make me feel welcome and ensure I have no problems.
Also - my room is lovely, huge big window and plenty of space - internet connection's brilliant too!
Anyway, I'm away out now so i'll update on here as and when!
Julie :) x
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