A Stepping Stone to Something Bigger: Yamama’s Journey into Healthcare

For Yamama AL Naes, the path to nursing started with a single, confident step — enrolling in Skills Institute's Health Level 3 programme right here in Dunedin. 

A graduate of Otago Girls' High School, Yamama has always been drawn to healthcare and the idea of helping people. But without a background in biology, she needed a programme that would meet her where she was and build her up from there. Health Level 3 did exactly that. 

She found the programme online, and what drew her in was the environment as much as the content. Small class sizes made a real difference, giving her the space to ask questions, join discussions, and grow in confidence without feeling overwhelmed. "It really helps reduce that anxiety," she says. "You feel comfortable, and that makes a huge difference when you're learning." 

The support hasn't stopped at the classroom door either. Tutors and student services have been alongside Yamama throughout, helping her find her footing academically, navigate the realities of balancing study with work and personal life, and access practical guidance like StudyLink support. It's the kind of wrap-around care that makes the difference between getting by and genuinely thriving. 

For Yamama, every module brings her closer to her long-term goal: a nursing qualification. This programme proves to be one of her many steps – the foundation. 

Her advice to anyone considering the journey? "If you're passionate about healthcare and helping people, this is a great place to start. Especially if you're still figuring out your career path. It's a supportive environment and really helps you work toward your future goals." 

Yamama's story is a reminder that you don't need to have everything figured out to take the first step. You just need the courage to begin and the right environment to grow. 

Interested in persuing Healthcare as a future career? Check out our programmes to find your fit.