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If you’re in your final year of nursing or about to start your grad year, you might be feeling a whole mix of emotions—excitement, fear, hope, and maybe even imposter syndrome. But here’s the good news: you’re not alone.
At the recent ACN Expo 2025, we chatted with over 30 final-year students and experienced nurses from all over Australia. We asked them the big questions—why they chose nursing, where they’re heading next, what they’re looking forward to, and what worries them the most.
Here’s what they had to say.
When we asked students why they chose nursing, the answers were deeply personal—and surprisingly consistent.
Many were inspired by family members, especially mums and grandmothers who were nurses before them. Others were driven by the desire to help people, often after witnessing healthcare up close, whether through sick siblings or volunteering.
“My mum’s a nurse and she’s my biggest inspiration,” said Barry.
“I got into nursing after watching the nurses take care of my grandfather. They were incredible,” shared another.
And then there were those who simply loved “a good chat” and wanted a career where that skill could make a difference.
From metro hospitals like Royal Melbourne, St Vincent’s, and the Alfred, to rural areas like Albury and Wangaratta, students had a wide variety of goals.
Some are targeting specific specialties—ICU, perioperative, mental health, pediatrics, or oncology—while others are open to exploring rotations.
“I’m hoping to go somewhere with a periop rotation so I can get into anesthetics,” said Sophie.
“I just want somewhere that has a supportive environment and lots of education opportunities,” added Tricia.
Even students still years from graduating were already thinking ahead, eager to explore options early and travel with their nursing careers.
The most common answer? Finally putting theory into practice.
Students said they were excited to:
“I’m so ready to stop doing assignments and start learning on the floor,” said Brooke.
“I just want to be there when a patient smiles,” shared another.
“Honestly? I’m looking forward to the pay!” laughed Rebecca.
Many were looking forward to discovering what kind of nurse they wanted to be, and were genuinely excited about trying different specialties.
Here’s where it gets real.
Fear of the unknown was the top concern. Students worry about:
“I’m scared of doing something wrong and not having anyone to ask,” said Emma.
“I don’t feel like I’m ready to be the actual nurse yet,” added Sophie.
“I’m nervous about interviews. What do I even wear?” asked Matt.
Several mentioned feeling unprepared for critical care situations, or just not being sure how things work in practice. And some international students flagged the challenge of adjusting to nursing in a new country.
Many students said GradHub could support them with:
“Sometimes I just need a little confidence boost,” said one student.
“It would help to know what common mistakes new grads make and how to avoid them.”
They want to know they’re not alone in their fears—and they want GradHub to be the reassuring voice that guides them through it.
Experienced nurses we spoke to had clear, heartfelt advice:
“No question is a silly question,” said Tara. “Better to ask than to guess and make a mistake. You’re in a safe space to learn.”
“Find that one person you trust who you can ask anything. That made my grad year,” shared another.
“Identify your knowledge gaps early and tell your team,” advised a clinical educator. “We don’t expect you to know it all.”
“Self-care is essential. Even 30 minutes can make a difference,” said Nikki.
“Nursing teaches you to care for yourself, not just your patients,” added another.
“You might think you want to be an ICU nurse and end up loving midwifery. Keep your options open,” said a Torrens University educator.
Nursing is tough. It’s emotional. It’s rewarding. And it’s full of moments that will challenge you and change you.
But if there’s one thing this year’s ACN Expo made clear, it’s this: you’re not alone.
Hundreds of students feel exactly like you—excited, nervous, curious, and a little overwhelmed. GradHub is here to help you find your way, one shift at a time.
Whether you’re struggling to find your feet, looking for interview tips, or just want to read stories from grads who’ve been there—we’re with you.
Welcome to your next chapter. You’re going to make a great nurse.
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