Navigating challenges & pursuing dreams: Liv’s story

Liv’s passion for the medical field started young. They once told their grandfather they wanted to be a brain surgeon, but their dream of becoming a midwife has been a lifelong aspiration. 

“Ever since I was little, I’ve liked the idea of midwifery. Not just because of the babies, but because you’re going to be there on someone’s best day or maybe their worst day. But what they’ll remember is the face that was by their side through the whole journey. And I’ve always just really liked that...” 

While several universities offer a double degree in nursing and midwifery, VU’s Block Model was a major draw for Liv. Despite doing well in school, they found it challenging to juggle multiple subjects simultaneously and avoid burnout. Liv once remarked that they wished they could study “in small chunks,” making VU’s innovative approach to learning a perfect fit. 

Set to graduate in 2025, Liv is incredibly grateful for the support they received from the VU Thrive grant. Just two weeks before a crucial placement, Liv’s financial situation became precarious when two housemates unexpectedly moved out, leading to a sudden increase in rent and bills. Reflecting on that time, Liv said, “I was just very, very stressed. I didn’t want to take a break from study, but I thought I might have to, just to work and survive.” 

For students like Liv, the demands of a double degree, especially one requiring extensive placement hours, make it nearly impossible to hold down a casual job. Liv is also part of a continuity of care program for pregnant women, further limiting their ability to earn money. The VU Thrive grant provided vital assistance, covering rent, groceries, and transport when Liv couldn’t work. Liv expressed their relief: 

It felt like I was a boulder running down a hill with no way to stop. The grant helped me pause and think. It allowed me to stay afloat until I finished my placement, without having to take time off study.

Thanks to your generous support, VU is able to help many students like Liv each year. With the current cost of living pressures, this grant is more important than ever.