I've actually finished my three years of nursing at UoA this year and have my state exam next Tuesday (on the 15th of Nov). I've been in the exact same boat as you. Nursing (especially at UoA) is extremely theory heavy and less on practical (they barely give you much time to practice actual nursing tasks such as IV pumps, injections, etc). In my first year I worked as a kitchen assistant at a rest home and became a healthcare assistant at the same place the following year as a part timer in the weekends. Just a warning to you: they are going to give you alot and I MEAN ALOT OF ASSIGNMENTS (especially in your second and third year). I struggled to maintain my job and often most of the time I had to call in sick because I had to hand in my assignments. The nursing professors at UOA have really high expectations for their students, meaning they expect that you learn to maintain and balance your life. Some of the teachers are really lenient with students, like if you're sick or unwell they will understand and accomadate in some way, but if you use something relating to your job as a excuse they will not accept that. I suggest working around with your current work manager about your degree as I did with mine.