John Adesoye, a 64-year-old Nigerian father of five, has graduated as a nurse in the United Kingdom, demonstrating that age is no barrier to achieving academic and professional goals. Adesoye, who grew up in Nigeria, initially worked as an electronics technician in Greece before relocating to the UK in 2013 and deciding to switch careers.
From electronics to healthcare
Adesoye's motivation for entering the healthcare sector stemmed from a desire to care for people. "When I was caring for electronic devices, I was happy when I could get broken devices working again. In my work in healthcare, when patients get better it gives me great joy and satisfaction," he said. He began working as a healthcare assistant at Southmead Hospital in Bristol in 2014 and has now secured a nursing role at the same hospital.
He completed a degree apprenticeship at the University of the West of England, spending one day a week learning at the Glenside campus in Fishponds and the remainder of the week working at Southmead Hospital. During his apprenticeship, he gained experience across various hospital departments, including cardiology, A&E, and intensive care.
Inspiration for others
Adesoye hopes his journey will inspire others to pursue higher education regardless of their age. "If I can do it, others can too. People are more brilliant and stronger than they think," he said. He added that once you start in higher education, doors continue to open, and he plans to pursue a master's-level qualification if the opportunity arises. "It's never too late," he emphasized.
Recognition from colleagues
Jacqui Caskey and Caroline Bromwich, who co-lead the registered nurse degree apprenticeship program, praised Adesoye's dedication. "Being a nurse apprentice is no mean feat. They juggle this with busy lives, along with family and caring commitments," they said. Professor Steve Hams, chief nursing officer at Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, expressed pride in Adesoye, stating that his whole team was "incredibly proud" of his achievement.
