Professional profile
Meet Njideka
I am Njideka Aniagolu, a UK-based Student Nurse studying Adult Nursing at the University of Essex.
01 · Professional purpose
Nursing is more than a career to me.
I am passionate about nursing, professional development, advocacy, education and inspiring people to believe in themselves regardless of their background or circumstances.
I am honoured to be serving as a Student Nursing Times Editor for 2025/2026, where I have the opportunity to contribute to conversations around nursing education, student experiences and the future of the profession.
My goal is to continue growing professionally while using my experiences to encourage others. I want to contribute to nursing, inspire young people and create conversations that inform, empower and encourage.
02 · Briefly, my story
From Nigeria to Adult Nursing in the UK.
When I was very young, I lost my mother during childbirth. As I grew older and began to understand the circumstances surrounding her death, it profoundly influenced the direction of my life. Her story became part of the reason I chose healthcare.
I started as an Auxiliary Nurse in Nigeria, progressed to a Diploma in Midwifery and became a registered midwife. I later made the courageous decision to relocate to the United Kingdom and pursue Adult Nursing at the University of Essex.
My journey has included setbacks, transition and growth. I am not at the end. I am still growing, still learning and still becoming.
Read my full story in The Guardian03 · The nurse I am becoming
Compassion. Listening. Courage. Critical thinking.
I believe good nursing requires compassion, listening, courage, critical thinking, advocacy, patience, resilience and humanity.
“If I were the patient in that bed, how would I want to be treated? If it were my loved one, what kind of care would I want them to receive?”