From the hospital to the lecture theatre: Josephine Mpofu works as a nurse and is studying vocational education and management in nursing part-time at the Ostfalia Campus in Wolfsburg. In this interview, she talks about juggling family, work and her studies, and why she would like to train nurses herself in the future.
Mandy Fleer, Ostfalia editorial team: Josephine, how did you end up studying?
Josephine: I’m originally from Zimbabwe and came to Germany as an au pair in 2017. After my year as an au pair, I did a voluntary social year (FSJ) and then trained as a nurse. I’m currently working in the haematology and oncology departments at Braunschweig Municipal Hospital and have decided to study whilst working.
Why did you decide to go on to study?
Josephine: I’m a clinical supervisor and have realised just how much I enjoy teaching people. I think it’s important to support trainees well and show them just how varied and demanding nursing is. The degree programme combines educational content with nursing science. That fits in very well with my interests.
What do you particularly like about the course?
Josephine: I particularly like the nursing science content. We look in depth at topics such as ethics and nursing theories, and learn to understand the connections better. It’s fascinating to look at familiar topics from my training from a different perspective.
Is there anything that has surprised you?
Josephine: Just how supportive the community is. We help and motivate one another. The lecturers also provide us with excellent support. That gives me a great sense of security.
Did you have any concerns before you started your studies?
Josephine: Yes, mainly because of the technical requirements. In Zimbabwe, we did a lot of work by hand. It was only in Germany that I learnt how to write emails or use a laptop. Academic work and programmes like PowerPoint were a big challenge for me at first.
What helped you then?
Josephine: I try to learn as I go along, step by step. I make use of the university’s resources and would also like to do a computer course. A good weekly schedule helps me too. With family, work and my studies, you need structure and discipline.
How do you manage to juggle everything?
Josephine: It’s not always easy. I work part-time and plan my weeks very carefully. Without the support of my family, friends and my social network, it would hardly be possible. You have to help each other out and ask for support when you need it.
Do you have any plans for after you finish your studies?
Josephine: I’d like to work in nursing training. It’s important to me that nursing gains even greater recognition as a professional career. I want to support trainees and show them just how valuable their work is.
What have you already learnt from your studies that will help with this?
Josephine: That professionalism isn’t just about specialist knowledge. Lifelong learning, respectful communication, teamwork and a willingness to develop personally are just as important.
What advice would you give to prospective students?
Josephine: You should organise yourself well and not try to do everything on your own. A strong network helps a great deal. And I’d like to encourage others: no matter where you come from or what your background is, if you really want something, you can achieve it.
Would you like to study at Ostfalia too? You can find an overview of all our degree programmes here! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the Central Student Advisory Service.