Aid worker stories
New certificated Essentials of Humanitarian Practice course prepares nurse for the aid world
As an intensive care nurse, Nancy Reynolds is used to a challenging environment. With a growing interest in the aid and development sector and a plan to shortly begin a Masters degree, Nancy enrolled on RedR’s newly credit-rated* Essentials of Humanitarian Practice course. Here she speaks to RedR about her experience.
How did you find the course?
I found it exhilarating and a great platform from which to jump off into the world of relief and development. It was a dynamic course and I liked the fact it was experiential and put us all on a steep learning curve.
What are the main things you have learnt?
I have gained a thorough understanding of the underpinnings and behind-the-scenes work of the relief sector. Having spent some time in the field, in Rwanda, this course has given me a more balanced perspective of what actually goes on. I thought the teaching was so professional, well-thought out, innovative and creative in the approach – there was no room for boredom!
How do you think you will take what you have learnt into the field?
This course helped me to identify my strengths and it highlighted my leadership qualities. It instilled a huge amount of confidence in me and made me more certain that I can do this. I now realise that I have the ability to do it and I know about the structure and framework of support that exists in the aid community.
What difference did the fact that this course is now credit-rated make to you?
It made a huge difference. I found it motivating to attend a course that could launch my Masters degree. It pushed me harder to achieve my goal. I wanted to put myself in a pressurised learning situation; this course afforded me the opportunity to see if I could learn in such an environment. I feel pleased with how it went but recognise my limitations. I know what areas of the sector that I can be effective in.
Do you have any final comments?
I liked the fact that this course was a no-holds barred view of the relief sector – the good, the bad and the ugly. I think it prepares people well for what they are getting into. It is also the most professionally organised and executed course I’ve seen anywhere, even at University. Without hesitation, I would encourage people to do it, even those who are already in the sector.
*Participants can opt to receive credits which can be put towards relevant post-graduate study if they pass the course.
