Student: Anamaria Šepl
Program: Nursing
Graduation Year: 2017
A Journey Through Nursing
Anamaria Šepl, born in Daruvar, completed her high school education as a nurse at Pakrac High School in 2007. After finishing high school, she worked in the field for seven years before deciding to enhance her knowledge and skills. “The only way to progress in my profession was to continue my education. I chose the Polytechnic of Bjelovar because I already knew many colleagues who had completed their studies there, and I was aware that the lecturers were highly competent and dedicated to sharing their knowledge,” says Anamaria.
Challenges and Experiences During Studies
Anamaria admits that the beginning of her studies was challenging as she balanced work and study simultaneously. “It wasn’t easy—working night and day shifts, constantly changing schedules, seeking free weekends, and using annual leave for internships and exams. It was difficult to juggle work and study,” she recalls. During this time, her daughter started first grade, adding to her responsibilities. “It was demanding to meet expectations as a mother, employee, and student.”
Despite these challenges, Anamaria managed to build many important connections and friendships during her three years of study in Bjelovar. “Studying at the Polytechnic of Bjelovar was one of the most beautiful periods of my life. I connected with people from all over Croatia, and it’s always nice when someone remembers you and the experiences we shared during our studies.”
The Appeal of VUB and the Advantages of Studying
The proximity of Bjelovar and collaboration with professors were key factors in Anamaria’s decision to choose VUB. “During my studies, I met many kind and supportive people. The professors were strict when necessary but always approachable.”
Anamaria highlights the professors’ dedication and extensive professional experience as invaluable. “I appreciated that the professors had years of work experience and were committed to passing on their knowledge. In nursing, theory and practice often differ. In certain situations, you can’t afford to think, ‘I need a mask, gloves.’ When human lives are at stake, you must act immediately. The anecdotes they shared from their professional lives demonstrated how theory doesn’t always align with real-life situations.”
Career and Further Education
After completing her professional nursing studies, Anamaria decided to continue her education. “My daughter said, ‘Mom, go further,’ and that made the decision for me.” She soon enrolled in a master’s program at the Croatian Catholic University. “I had a solid foundation from Bjelovar, which made further studies much easier,” says Anamaria, who now works as the Assistant Director for Nursing and the Head Nurse at Daruvar Spa Hospital.
The Challenges and Future of Nursing
Anamaria emphasizes that nursing is still often undervalued, despite the high level of education required. “We’re not yet fully recognized within our system. There’s a lingering stereotype that a nurse is ‘just a nurse.’” She underscores that nursing is an extremely complex and responsible profession requiring expertise and empathy.
Looking to the future, she highlights the need for specific personal qualities and skills in nursing. “This profession involves caring for sick individuals who need human interaction, not just medication. In today’s stressful world, it takes strength and willingness to be compassionate and dedicated to patients.”
Anamaria is also concerned about staffing shortages. “I’m worried about the future of nursing because there are too few of us in the system. Life expectancy is increasing, and we’re seeing younger generations with health issues stemming from inactivity. I fear there won’t be enough nurses to care for patients. We must motivate young people to pursue this profession, not just for good pay but for the opportunity to help others.”
The Benefits of Studying at VUB
Anamaria describes her time at VUB as a unique experience, emphasizing the closeness with professors and colleagues. “The connection with professors and their dedication to imparting knowledge makes VUB special. After graduation, I still consider many of them friends, and I was honored to co-author a paper with my former mentor, which I presented at an international congress.”
She gained numerous skills and knowledge during her studies that have been instrumental in her career. “The knowledge I gained at VUB was invaluable, particularly in patient communication. One of the most important lessons I learned is to always do your best and be a fair colleague or supervisor, even if others don’t appreciate it. At the end of the day, knowing you gave your all is what truly matters.”
Advice for Future Students
“I would always advise future students to enroll at VUB. Studying there allows you to build lasting connections with professors and peers,” Anamaria says. She appreciates the relationships formed during her studies and cherishes opportunities to reconnect with professors and colleagues.
Collaboration and Professional Development
Anamaria stresses the importance of collaboration with other healthcare institutions. “Collaboration is excellent because many colleagues working in other institutions are also VUB graduates. The connections formed during our studies continue to thrive afterward.”
She also highlights the importance of ongoing professional development. “Medicine and nursing are constantly evolving. What we did a few years ago is now done differently. Our work profoundly impacts community health, both curatively and preventively.”
The Future of Nursing
While optimistic about technological advancements, Anamaria insists that technology cannot replace the human touch in nursing. “A robot can remind you to take medication, but nothing can replace a kind word and a human touch.”
She hopes for more recognition of specialized nursing and believes it can make the profession more appealing to younger generations. “Nursing isn’t just a job; it’s a life mission. Helping others brings immense satisfaction. If I had to choose again, I wouldn’t hesitate.”
Anamaria’s journey through nursing is a testament to dedication and passion, serving as an inspiration for those considering this noble profession.
Author: Jan Ulovec
