From Practice to Perspective: My Journey as a Post-registration Student at HKU

Allen Tang Fai | Year 2 Bachelor of Nursing (Part-time) for Registered Nurses student

As a nurse working busy shifts in one of Hong Kong’s hospitals while studying at The University of Hong Kong, I have gradually come to appreciate that nursing truly comes to life when integrating theory into clinical practice. The part-time BNurs programme achieves this throughout the curriculum, nurturing new generation nurse-leaders like myself to advance nursing education and achieve patient healthcare outcomes in an evidence-based manner.

Prior to commencing the programme, my clinical decision-making often relied on established routines, conventional practices, or the prevailing consensus among colleagues. However, the curriculum at HKU has transformed my thinking. The introduction to evidence-based practice prompted me to critically evaluate the methodologies and ask myself, “Why are we doing this this way?” I now am acquiring the skills to effectively integrate empirical evidence into everyday practice, bridging the gap between research and real-world application.

The most profound change I have experienced is a shift in mindset. I have become more reflective, asking more questions, seeking evidence, and valuing continuing education more than ever before. The HKU nursing programme goes beyond academic study with its focus on evidence and its design, which helps working nurses apply what they learn to make meaningful improvements in practice. Whether through simulations, lectures or skills labs, our learning consistently connects theory to real-life situations, making the journey so rewarding. Through learning to integrate theoretical knowledge into practice, I am building up my expertise and skills to provide better care. And I am seeing how ideas about patient-centred care and working closely with other healthcare professionals translate into everyday actions that improve patient outcomes.

The programme also emphasises leadership and management skills—including decision-making, team coordination, conflict resolution, and strategic planning—as important to clinical quality and safety. I have come to appreciate that leadership is not confined to formal managerial roles; every nurse has a responsibility to lead and advocate for best practices and to support colleagues. Embracing this leadership mindset has empowered me to take a proactive role in improving patient care and fostering a collaborative work environment.

Balancing work, study and family life as a part-time student is undoubtedly challenging. Yet, the programme has inspired me to be resilient and reinforced my commitment to becoming a reflective and thoughtful practitioner, prepared to contribute meaningfully to the nursing profession.