Kirsty's story
"From doubting myself at school to achieving a Master's with distinction, I've learned that your future isn't defined by your grades or confidence as a teenager."
Kirsty Bain, Advanced Nurse Practitioner
On this page
Early career
As a teenager, I was very quiet and lacked confidence. I wasn't sure what I wanted to do after school and felt the same pressure many young people do when it seemed like everyone around me had a clear plan. While my friends were completing university applications, I still had no idea what career I wanted to pursue.
Everything changed when my parents encouraged me to attend a healthcare careers day in Inverness. I was immediately drawn to the University of Stirling Nursing stand. The opportunity to study locally in Inverness and complete placements close to home in Wick made nursing feel like the perfect fit. Until that day, I had never considered a career in nursing, but I left certain that it was what I wanted to do.
Career journey
Despite failing Higher English at school and receiving some discouraging feedback about my career choice, I went on to study nursing and thoroughly enjoyed it. I discovered a love for learning and academic writing, supported by excellent lecturers and inspiring mentors.
After qualifying, I secured a Staff Nurse post and initially expected to stay in that role for the rest of my career. However, as I gained experience, my confidence and ambition grew. Encouraged by colleagues who believed in me, I applied for a trainee Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP) position within a GP practice.
Current role
The ANP role was a perfect fit for me, and I quickly realised how much I enjoyed the challenge and variety it offered. I went on to achieve a Master of Science in Advanced Nurse Practice with Distinction and now work in a role that I genuinely love.
(as at September 2026)
Key reflections
Looking back, I would never have imagined where my career would take me. From failing Higher English and doubting my abilities to graduating with distinction at Master's level, my journey has shown me that confidence can grow over time and that success is not always defined by how you perform at school.
Advice for others
Your future is not defined by your grades, your confidence as a teenager, or what other people think you are capable of. Sometimes all it takes is one opportunity, one decision and the courage to take that first step. You never know where that path might lead.
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