Now into its second year, the Student Nursing Times award at the Grange hotel near St Paul's Cathedral, London, boasted a turnout of nearly 500 people, almost twice the size of its first year.

I had entered myself for the 'Outstanding contribution to student affairs' category at the last minute. Having judged at last year's awards, I was well aware that many student nurses don't seek grand recognition for their work but instead are content to work diligently for the benefit of their patients. In my entry I had included the numerous articles I had written while as student nurse editor for student nursing times, the pod cast that I host and produce for the student nursing times as well as my involvement with the voluntary society at my university.

To my delight I was one of just five that had been shortlisted, and was called to London to the Nursing Times head office to be interviewed before three judges. They included a student nurse and a volunteer to St John's ambulance. I was the first of the day and understandably nervous as I wanted to present what I've done in the best possible way. I was asked a series of questions about my achievements on what I felt was my proudest moment. I left feeling somewhat optimistic but also pragmatic as to the extraordinary amount of applicants and the calibre of applicants they have received this year.

The award ceremony itself was on 1 May and included such luminary speakers as Chief Nursing Officer for England Jane Cummings, Department of Health and Public Health England Director of Nursing Viv Bennett and Royal College of Nursing Chief Executive and general secretary Peter Carter.

The keynote address was given by the internationally recognised nurse academic Professor June Andrews, Director of the Dementia Services Development Centre at the University of Stirling.

My award was the third of the evening and when my name was read out as being highly commended in the category, I felt disappointed that I hadn't won but immensely proud that out of 17 categories I was one of four of whom that were given the highly commended title. My involvement with the Student Nursing Times and the support offered to me by the university has made me reflect on my three years of being a student nurse. While at times it has been difficult, it has been one of the most exciting and proudest moments of my life. It's a great way to start my career as a qualified nurse this September.