Nursing student Belle Marriage has become the first Central Queensland University Mackay student to be awarded a scholarship that allows her to undertake a clinical placement in Sweden from October.

The School of Nursing and Health Studies & Midswedan University Nurse Exchange Program scholarship was open to third-year Bachelor of Health students across CQU campuses.

Miss Marriage intends to use the eight-week professional exchange to explore nursing and to promote Central Queensland in Ostersund, Sweden.

“I am looking forward to the transcultural experience and strengthening the knowledge I offer to the nursing profession,” she said.

The School of Nursing and Health Studies International Facilitator Dawn Hay said applicants had to display sound academic achievements, an ability to cope with the challenges of working overseas and an enthusiasm for representing their chosen profession, university and country abroad.

“Students like Belle are seen as willing to take different opportunities to strengthen their personal and professional lives,” she said. “The scholarship has been offered over the past five years and in each case the students have returned with extra confidence in their abilities. All previous exchange students have successfully gained and have further increased their nursing career opportunities.” The development process of the exchange requires Belle to become involved in community activities. Community groups or organisations are encouraged to support Miss Marriage’s overseas experience and are urged to contact Ms Hay should they wish for Miss Marriage to speak to local groups. Please contact Ms Hay by telephoning 4930 9703 or via email at d.hay@cqu.edu.au.

Photo caption: School of Nursing and Health Studies Lecturer Pam Savage receives treatment from CQU scholarship winner Belle Marriage.