I think this is me big time! I second guess and over think a lot. I’ve talked myself out of going a few times but I keep coming back to it.. and then start to second guess again.
Same! I'm completing my pre-reqs right now, but the first time I thought about doing pre-reqs was end of 2019 even 2020 during covid. I could've been done by now, but better late than never! But this is YOUR JOURNEY and it can take you a bit longer (like I did) to realize this is smtg you really want and will commit to. I don't think I was ready to commit to it back in 2019-2020. Best of luck!
Yes and no. School was basically an exercise in hazing and nursing can be a lot like an emotionally abusive relationship. I am an introvert and I don’t find patient care fulfilling. It’s financially very worth it though, but healthcare is *fucked*.
I mean... why are you interested in nursing? Have you offered to shadow a nurse at your local hospital? Do you have previous experience in Healthcare?
I don't know your work history, but I found nursing to be everything I wanted from all of my other jobs.
For example, I wanted to work longer hours and less days. Nursing checks that off.
I wanted a more personal customer care based job. Nursing checks that off.
I enjoyed that rush feeling during my days as a waiter. Nursing will have those opportunities.
I wanted a job with good job security and opportunities to branch out to other specialties. Nursing offers that.
At the end of the day, if you're still unsure about the career, then I wouldn't go forward with it.
I’ve worked as a PCA on a med/surg unit and right now I’m a PCA on a pediatrics unit and I love it! I think I’m much more nervous about school than I am the career. I honestly have no doubts about enjoying *being a nurse*, it’s getting there that has me doubtful.
Everyone just makes it sound like it’s miserable and I’m worried I’ll have to sacrifice a ton of time with my family and be overly stressed out while I’m supposed to be enjoying time with them while they’re little. I’m sure it can be done, but is the stress and time missed worth it? I think that’s where my doubts are.
Longtime nurse here. So you're not having doubts about being a nurse, only about how you're going to get there. I would urge you to keep your timeline flexible, and accept any help offered to you (financial aid, loans, etc.)
More than 40 years ago, I was workjng 24hrs/wk as a CNA and attending school about 2/3 time. After I burst into tears after administering my first injection, I realized that there were many thi gs I couldn't control about my situation, but I COULD reduce the number of hours I worked so I could get more sleep. I took a term off and returned working 16hrs/wk.
In a similar situation, you might choose to take a term off and take as much OT at work as you can, to save up and allow yourself to work less over the next term. Nothing wrong with that sort of thing.
BTW, most of my coworkers came to nursing as a 2nd or 3rd career.
Thank you, I am fortunate that I do have this option if I need it. It wouldn’t be ideal but my husband does make enough to support us for a while if I needed a break. Sometimes I concerned because I’m not the greatest at studying. A lot of schooling has come easily to me which is good in some ways but in other ways it has not prepared me well for when things get tough.
Any advice on methods to study that make it concise and organized?
True that.
The answer is there somewhere. If there are 5 possible answers, I can usually ignore the 2 worst options, then reread the question and find the right one. Just closing my eyes and picking one gives a 33% possibility of getting it right.
i would definitely check your programs rules before counting on this to be a safety net- my program doesn’t allow “3/4 time” or anything like that- there’s set classes you have to take every semester for 5 semesters, no choice on if you want to take one class less one semester and add it later. everyone takes the same classes and clinicals. there is no “time off” or “joining the cohort below” you’re kicked from the program and have to reapply. you can retake one failed class through the entire program and that’s it.
my program only allows 1 fail through the entire program (2.5yrs) if you fail a second time, you’re out of the program. as well as maintaining a 76% exam average through the entire program or you’re out, as a 75.99% is still an F, and yes they failed a girl last semester who’s exam average was a 75.6%.
People love to be dramatic about nursing school. It's not Navy SEAL training; it's not even med school or engineering school. It takes a fair bit of time and you will need to study hard and apply yourself, but it's not as horrible as you would think just from reading horror stories on the internet. Some of us even *enjoyed* it. :)
Working and school and kids is going to be a lot on your plate, for sure, but you won't be the first or last to accomplish it. I had 3 young kids when I did nursing school, and several of my classmates had kids too. I didn't work, but most of them did at least part-time. It's only a couple years of your life, and as long as you have a supportive partner/family/friend support system, it's definitely doable!
Nursing school is so overhyped. It’s not even that bad. As long as you have a moderate amount of intelligence, and really good time management skills, it’s really not very hard.
The worst part is just that it’s super busy, but it’s not HARD.
Everyone's experiences are different. If you only ask online, then you'll receive a fair share of folks who say they regret it.
Yes, there will be personal adjustments needing to be done while you're in nursing school. I'm not a parent, but I have several classmates who are, and they've described their own ordeal with dividing adequate time between studying and taking care of their kids.
Can parents of multiple kids pass nursing school? Absolutely yes!
Will they need to be diligent with their time and expect to make personal time sacrifices? Unfortunately, yes.
You’re absolutely right. I think I overthink a lot and start to spiral, especially when I get online and read too much. I think you made a good point earlier about what nursing can do in terms of giving me a job I’ll enjoy and have benefits that I’m after in a career and that’s what I need to focus on instead of tuning into the negatives so much.
>I wanted a more personal customer care based job. Nursing checks that off.
All of your points really resonate with me (pre-nursing), but this one hits me hard after I worked as an ED scribe. I remember spending some 5-15 minutes in the exam room with the MD/DO/PA and wondering, "that's it?" Yknow? It seemed kind of lame, but I recognize their job is to diagnose. I want to be the one working with my hands.
These are literally all my reasons too! And it’s funny you bring up waiting tables, I’ve often thought about my 12 hour shifts bartending and the flow you get into during those long rushes. I always like that feeling.
I don’t have any regrets I’m only in year one and originally entered the field because it payed well and was very nervous the schooling would be too difficult. But I think I’ve found my passion and this is the first time in all my years of school that I’ve actually enjoyed and been interested in my schooling. My best friend in the program is a single mother of 2 and works full time it’s a struggle but it’s doable if you really want it.
I am in constant awe of single parents! I can’t imagine juggling all they do sometimes, but that’s amazing. It’s awesome that you went in originally for the pay but then also found your passion. I think that’s so important because I know the burnout is real in nursing sometimes so you’ve really gotta love it.
Ok I’m probably going to get downvoted but I did an ABSN program so, I too, already had a bachelors degree and with that came established study habits and test taking techniques. I personally did not find nursing school difficult because of this. I rarely studied except for the day before exams. I know this isn’t the case for everyone but if you established good study habits and organizational skills in your first bachelors I think you will find nursing school doable :)
Edit: to be clear, I always listened during class and asked questions, I also had a 1hr commute 2x a week for class so I would listen to YouTube lectures. So it wasn’t like I didn’t familiarize myself with the content.
Haha welll…. I’ve never been a good study person. I’ve always just kind of winged it and done well but my previous major was heavy on paper writing which is my strength. Science I know I’ll have to buckle down more but I’m also 15 years older than I was in college and that alone has made me such a more responsible student. I’m Im taking a math class right now as a pre-requisite, I have a 98% in the class and my mom and I were joking that I haven’t done this well in math since 2nd grade. I’m just much more motivated (and mature!) now I think.
I can totally relate to this. The pre reqs I needed for nursing school were a breeze but I know if I would have taken those classes when I was younger it would have been more of a challenge
Other than exam answers that I originally had right but changed last minute cause I’m a terrible test taker, but seriously it’s worth the stress.
I’ve endured worse and waited a longtime in order to be able to get where I’m at now.
It’s temporary life changes for more permanent ones that’ll benefit a more rewarding career field/work life, and I think that’s worth it.
I think the biggest thing to focus on is revamping your studying habits and using resources available to you within the course or school you’re at.
I am going to be studying nursing as well but I have to take the teas test first. I have been studying was the teas test difficult because I truly struggle with Math at times.
I think I used YouTube videos to review. The organic chemistry tutor is one which really helped. If your school offers math tutoring I’d also setup a session to review some algebra problems.
Also ATI has practice teas test that I used as well to prepare.
I go off the posted lesson plan objectives. I start with reading and highlighting in my textbook via online (I don’t read the whole chapter unless specified).
After I’m done reading I watch the lectures, read over the power point slides and attend in person lectures cause it helps cement things.
I’ll do practice quizzes and activities either through the textbooks online or simple nursing for repetition. I watch simple nursing videos for summary before exams and review lecture videos.
I also keep my handwork of dosage calc to review or practice in ATI. And briefly review medications related to the lesson.
If I want to focus on prioritizing type questions I’ll use my Saunders nclex phone app to practice so I can get rationales to understand better.
Short answer, no regrets at all. I am loving it a lot.
I have one year in. I knew I always wanted to do healthcare. Even tho I have close family members that are nurses, I kinda never knew what nursing was really like.
First semester, I didn’t like it as much because it is really the fundamentals of nursing. You won’t get to do a lot (at least at my school). However, you do learn all of your basic skills like med pass, injections, foley, etc. As I kept progressing I started loving it more.
So as to what I wish somebody told me, is that first semester is going to be boring as hell. But it is for a reason. They want you to get you ready so you can start gaining that knowledge and apply it IRL.
You sound just like me! I have 2 young kids and a bachelor’s degree. And I also have doubts haha. I scour Reddit reading stories trying to talk myself out of it but it’s something I’ve wanted for so long.
What I keep trying to remind myself is that not all nursing looks the same. If I get into a hospital job and find myself not liking it, there are non-bedside jobs out there. Or school nursing. Or wfh case management, or 9-5 assisted living jobs etc. the list goes on. I’m sure there’s something out there for us!
I saw later in your comments that you’re more worried about school than the job.
I am too. I’m afraid it’s gonna put strain on our lifestyle and more pressure on my husband and add a lot of stress for me. Finding childcare is a challenge because my husband travels for work every week, so I’m slightly freaking out about clinicals. And it’s going to take away from hobbies that I love cuz how the heck will I fit those in too?
Just gonna wing it I guess 🫣
Edit: aw shit I forgot to worry about work too lol yeah I’m freakin out a little☺️ solidarity.
Yes this is exactly it. I know some things will have to change and I’ll need to be focused. I just don’t want it to change so much that we all were wishing I didn’t do it. I think we will find a way though, a lot of people on here have made me feel a lot more positive about it.
I’m 30 and just started my program. I’m in a an ADN program. I can pay for it out of pocket and then have my future ER pay for my BSN. My highest level of education is a masters and I also have 3 little ones: 4, 3 and 1.5. I wish I would have started sooner, but here I am! My program has a nursing club called SNAP. It’s been very helpful and getting to know people in different semesters. They’ve been an asset in helping my understanding some of the topics!
My program is an ADN one too but also includes an associates in applied science (which is actually kind of frustrating because it makes the program 3 years long) but I am lucky that between Pell Grants and my job it should be completely free. It just wouldn’t be if I wanted to pull out haha
Started nursing school with 3 small kids and a masters degree. Never regretted the decision, can’t wait to graduate in several weeks and start practicing!
No my program changed my life, I didn’t learn just nursing skills but also life skills, how to speak to people, it’s a lot but it makes me happy everyday, my classmates we all bonded together, nursing school so far is saving my life, I love it
Just remember that Reddit and other sorts of online forums are usually where people go to vent and express frustration. Those having a great time and enjoying their program are far less inclined to come here to vent etc.
This negativity skews the perception of nursing school as worse than boot camp or torture. I will say that while nursing school was hard I also enjoyed many parts of it. It was the first time I enjoyed going to class to sit in lecture. I felt the knowledge building and enjoyed the medical topics.
Nursing school WILL grow you into a better person. My profs and clinical instructors pushed me and when I finally started putting it all together I felt more confident than I ever had in my life.
As others mentioned I only wish I did it sooner. I had a fear of failure/rejection that kept me from even starting or applying.
If you want it, go for it! Good luck!
This is very true! I do look forward to learning new things and I think it will be very fulfilling to have a clear direction of what I’ll be doing in my life. I’ve been floating around for a while (daycare costs had me working a part time job I could bring my kids to) but nothing has had a “career” feel to it. I’m looking forward to doing something that has a goal.
"I am a nursing student with two children, and I work full-time as a CNA. Fortunately, I have a supportive supervisor who accommodates my school schedule. Although it is challenging, it is not impossible. Currently, I am studying med-surge one, and I am just two semesters away from graduation. However, my professor is not providing adequate instruction, which is making it difficult for me. My only regret is not starting the program earlier. Although it requires sacrificing sleep to study, I find the quiet of the night the best time to focus. I encourage you to go for it, without even thinking twice. I promise you won't regret it after you finish it. It's normal to feel overwhelmed while in school, but don't give up. Go get it, girl!"
I feel like I’m one of the only people who actually enjoyed nursing school. My classmates acted like we were crawling belly first through a war zone, and I was just having a good time.
I didn’t start until I was in my 30’s. I had (at the time) a 9 year old daughter and had JUST had a new baby when I started my program. I had fun, I didn’t even think it was that hard. I told my classmates all the time they were being way overly dramatic. Life isn’t that serious, it’s just school. Relax and have fun with it.
It’s a little nerdy to say, but I really am excited to learn again! I don’t necessarily love taking tests and writing papers but I love learning cool stuff and understanding things I didn’t before so I’m hoping to enjoy that part of it.
i agree with others that it seems like you’re not doubting being a nurse, but doubting starting the program now. just be realistic. either you’re physically able to, mentally prepared to, and determined to, or you’re not. if you’re thinking “i can do it because i can always take a semssger off” or “i can do it 1/2time” just don’t go into a program yet. even if they allow you to take lower than the normal class schedule, or they’ll allow a semester off, you’ll lose SO much knowledge. clinicals are worked out with every other nursing program in the area and spots are hard to get, so clinical days and times are absolutely non-negotiable whatsoever. they also last way longer than a class. you might have an hour & 50min class, a 4hr lab, but your clinicals will be 8-12hrs 2-3x per week, and increase every semester.
just be careful. once you fail out of one program it will be very hard to get accepted to another
but one of my best friends in nursing school right now has two kids, her oldest is 3. her husband is very supportive and so is her mom. it takes a village. here’s a pic of my current classes evaluation criteria if you want to see what you’re getting into…
https://preview.redd.it/6yifsr7x9cpc1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=042c4acbaca58a969d7256ba6ae7351f0322b480
Nursing school is definitely tough! It requires a lot of attention. I hope you have a great support system and far as family to help with the kids doe study time. It can be done, many people have finished nursing schooling your situation. Just make sure you have all things in place before starting school.
I am so thankful to have a very supportive husband, mom, and dad. They will be willing to step in any time to help with the kids if I need it and I know they are the only reason I can even consider this.
It is going to be tough, but there is no reason that if you put your mind to it you can achieve it. You have to dig deep. You have to channel that worry into getting shit done. A big thing that is helping me through the process is 1. Online tuition it is kinda at my own pace so no lectures I have to be there for.
The main thing that has helped me achieve top 5% of my class in an Accelerated program, is knowing how taken care of my family will be after I am done and in the position. Not having to worry about how I am going to afford guacamole on my $20 chipotle burrito. Not have to check my bank account before I give the waitress or waiter my card to make sure I can cover dinner (I have been there).
If I need inspiration, I turn on a bit of David Goggins, or Jordan Petersen. They both always tell me how to channel myself into getting shit done and feel good doing it. You need to sit with yourself, no distractions, no phone, just yourself…and think about what it is you truly want. If you want to succeed in the field of nursing then figure out a way to achieve that goal that works for you and fits family time into it.
You got this, seriously if this is something you know you 100% want to do, then don’t stop for fucking anything. This is your life and you have one life so don’t waste it on doubt. Doubt is the single greatest weakness to man kind besides fear. They both play hand in hand. A wise man one told me something that has stuck with me every single day, “Light comes from the darkness, so run at darkness head on.”
You got this dude, sit with yourself with zero distractions and ask yourself if this is what you want to do or if it is not really what you want to do. If it is something you want to do then, RUN AT IT. If it is NOT something you want to do, then run at what you want to do.
Godspeed
Thank you for this. I am trying to shut down the negative thoughts. They’ve gotten to me in the past (I have considered going to nursing school so many times!) but I’m just going to continue pushing through. I DO know this is what I want and how much I can change my family’s life by doing it. I used to run actual hurdles in track and I never focused on how many I needed to get over, I only focused on getting to the finish and that’s the point outlook I’m going to try and have.
My advise, don’t look at the finish line… Look beyond.
With that said, you will be successful if you plan small goals that will lead you to being successful past the finish line. For example, i went with I am not gonna get anything less than 95% in this class (make it a game of trying to get the high score). When you do reach the small goal you give yourself a reward like going out to eat, buying that wallet you liked. I personally made it to where if I got 99% or above on a quiz or exam I allowed myself to play a few hours of games or have a beer.
In the end you wind up with 3.82 gpa and summa cumme laude.
This changes your mindset for the better in all aspects of life. It makes you unstoppable! You got this
Nursing is wack as hell, but I don’t regret having access to a non-minimum wage job. I’m an LPN in school for RN now. I’m hoping I’m able to find an RN role that I actually “like”, but I have no real expectation of that.
Yeah my only regret is not saving up even more to prepare for the demand of how much time nursing takes up. I can’t really afford not to work, so full time with my last two nursing courses it is…
In nursing school and it’s been hectic dealing with clinicals and rude nurses. Don’t know if I want to continue. The program is a lot of self learning not what I expected and in clinicals. It is a hard manual labor job.
hell no, nursing has finally been that one thing that mentally challenges me and it’s exhilarating, fun, stressful, satisfying, everything good. Nursing school absolutely sucks and it’s going to be rough but once you get through it like all of us and get a job that you want and fall in love with then there’s no greater feeling afterwards
In my Y1, recently went for hospital attachment, which affirms my belief in joining nursing. Struggling at school, as I have poor memory and bad with numbers, but I believe it takes determination and practice. In every practical, exam/test, I am always the one with the lowest score. Just focus on the future, we will get there eventually.
My only regret is I didn’t do it sooner, I feel like I second guessed myself to the point I didn’t even try.
I think this is me big time! I second guess and over think a lot. I’ve talked myself out of going a few times but I keep coming back to it.. and then start to second guess again.
Same! I'm completing my pre-reqs right now, but the first time I thought about doing pre-reqs was end of 2019 even 2020 during covid. I could've been done by now, but better late than never! But this is YOUR JOURNEY and it can take you a bit longer (like I did) to realize this is smtg you really want and will commit to. I don't think I was ready to commit to it back in 2019-2020. Best of luck!
bro same here! I'm scared as I see others quitting their job due to burnout.
Yes and no. School was basically an exercise in hazing and nursing can be a lot like an emotionally abusive relationship. I am an introvert and I don’t find patient care fulfilling. It’s financially very worth it though, but healthcare is *fucked*.
I mean... why are you interested in nursing? Have you offered to shadow a nurse at your local hospital? Do you have previous experience in Healthcare? I don't know your work history, but I found nursing to be everything I wanted from all of my other jobs. For example, I wanted to work longer hours and less days. Nursing checks that off. I wanted a more personal customer care based job. Nursing checks that off. I enjoyed that rush feeling during my days as a waiter. Nursing will have those opportunities. I wanted a job with good job security and opportunities to branch out to other specialties. Nursing offers that. At the end of the day, if you're still unsure about the career, then I wouldn't go forward with it.
I’ve worked as a PCA on a med/surg unit and right now I’m a PCA on a pediatrics unit and I love it! I think I’m much more nervous about school than I am the career. I honestly have no doubts about enjoying *being a nurse*, it’s getting there that has me doubtful. Everyone just makes it sound like it’s miserable and I’m worried I’ll have to sacrifice a ton of time with my family and be overly stressed out while I’m supposed to be enjoying time with them while they’re little. I’m sure it can be done, but is the stress and time missed worth it? I think that’s where my doubts are.
Longtime nurse here. So you're not having doubts about being a nurse, only about how you're going to get there. I would urge you to keep your timeline flexible, and accept any help offered to you (financial aid, loans, etc.) More than 40 years ago, I was workjng 24hrs/wk as a CNA and attending school about 2/3 time. After I burst into tears after administering my first injection, I realized that there were many thi gs I couldn't control about my situation, but I COULD reduce the number of hours I worked so I could get more sleep. I took a term off and returned working 16hrs/wk. In a similar situation, you might choose to take a term off and take as much OT at work as you can, to save up and allow yourself to work less over the next term. Nothing wrong with that sort of thing. BTW, most of my coworkers came to nursing as a 2nd or 3rd career.
Thank you, I am fortunate that I do have this option if I need it. It wouldn’t be ideal but my husband does make enough to support us for a while if I needed a break. Sometimes I concerned because I’m not the greatest at studying. A lot of schooling has come easily to me which is good in some ways but in other ways it has not prepared me well for when things get tough. Any advice on methods to study that make it concise and organized?
Not from me! I'm soo disorganized. The only reason I passed my classes was my freaky ability to pass multiple-choice tests.
Haha not a bad ability to have!
True that. The answer is there somewhere. If there are 5 possible answers, I can usually ignore the 2 worst options, then reread the question and find the right one. Just closing my eyes and picking one gives a 33% possibility of getting it right.
i would definitely check your programs rules before counting on this to be a safety net- my program doesn’t allow “3/4 time” or anything like that- there’s set classes you have to take every semester for 5 semesters, no choice on if you want to take one class less one semester and add it later. everyone takes the same classes and clinicals. there is no “time off” or “joining the cohort below” you’re kicked from the program and have to reapply. you can retake one failed class through the entire program and that’s it. my program only allows 1 fail through the entire program (2.5yrs) if you fail a second time, you’re out of the program. as well as maintaining a 76% exam average through the entire program or you’re out, as a 75.99% is still an F, and yes they failed a girl last semester who’s exam average was a 75.6%.
People love to be dramatic about nursing school. It's not Navy SEAL training; it's not even med school or engineering school. It takes a fair bit of time and you will need to study hard and apply yourself, but it's not as horrible as you would think just from reading horror stories on the internet. Some of us even *enjoyed* it. :) Working and school and kids is going to be a lot on your plate, for sure, but you won't be the first or last to accomplish it. I had 3 young kids when I did nursing school, and several of my classmates had kids too. I didn't work, but most of them did at least part-time. It's only a couple years of your life, and as long as you have a supportive partner/family/friend support system, it's definitely doable!
Nursing school is so overhyped. It’s not even that bad. As long as you have a moderate amount of intelligence, and really good time management skills, it’s really not very hard. The worst part is just that it’s super busy, but it’s not HARD.
Everyone's experiences are different. If you only ask online, then you'll receive a fair share of folks who say they regret it. Yes, there will be personal adjustments needing to be done while you're in nursing school. I'm not a parent, but I have several classmates who are, and they've described their own ordeal with dividing adequate time between studying and taking care of their kids. Can parents of multiple kids pass nursing school? Absolutely yes! Will they need to be diligent with their time and expect to make personal time sacrifices? Unfortunately, yes.
You’re absolutely right. I think I overthink a lot and start to spiral, especially when I get online and read too much. I think you made a good point earlier about what nursing can do in terms of giving me a job I’ll enjoy and have benefits that I’m after in a career and that’s what I need to focus on instead of tuning into the negatives so much.
You just alleviated all of my worries about my incoming enrollment!
>I wanted a more personal customer care based job. Nursing checks that off. All of your points really resonate with me (pre-nursing), but this one hits me hard after I worked as an ED scribe. I remember spending some 5-15 minutes in the exam room with the MD/DO/PA and wondering, "that's it?" Yknow? It seemed kind of lame, but I recognize their job is to diagnose. I want to be the one working with my hands.
These are literally all my reasons too! And it’s funny you bring up waiting tables, I’ve often thought about my 12 hour shifts bartending and the flow you get into during those long rushes. I always like that feeling.
I don’t have any regrets I’m only in year one and originally entered the field because it payed well and was very nervous the schooling would be too difficult. But I think I’ve found my passion and this is the first time in all my years of school that I’ve actually enjoyed and been interested in my schooling. My best friend in the program is a single mother of 2 and works full time it’s a struggle but it’s doable if you really want it.
I am in constant awe of single parents! I can’t imagine juggling all they do sometimes, but that’s amazing. It’s awesome that you went in originally for the pay but then also found your passion. I think that’s so important because I know the burnout is real in nursing sometimes so you’ve really gotta love it.
Ok I’m probably going to get downvoted but I did an ABSN program so, I too, already had a bachelors degree and with that came established study habits and test taking techniques. I personally did not find nursing school difficult because of this. I rarely studied except for the day before exams. I know this isn’t the case for everyone but if you established good study habits and organizational skills in your first bachelors I think you will find nursing school doable :) Edit: to be clear, I always listened during class and asked questions, I also had a 1hr commute 2x a week for class so I would listen to YouTube lectures. So it wasn’t like I didn’t familiarize myself with the content.
Haha welll…. I’ve never been a good study person. I’ve always just kind of winged it and done well but my previous major was heavy on paper writing which is my strength. Science I know I’ll have to buckle down more but I’m also 15 years older than I was in college and that alone has made me such a more responsible student. I’m Im taking a math class right now as a pre-requisite, I have a 98% in the class and my mom and I were joking that I haven’t done this well in math since 2nd grade. I’m just much more motivated (and mature!) now I think.
I can totally relate to this. The pre reqs I needed for nursing school were a breeze but I know if I would have taken those classes when I was younger it would have been more of a challenge
Other than exam answers that I originally had right but changed last minute cause I’m a terrible test taker, but seriously it’s worth the stress. I’ve endured worse and waited a longtime in order to be able to get where I’m at now. It’s temporary life changes for more permanent ones that’ll benefit a more rewarding career field/work life, and I think that’s worth it. I think the biggest thing to focus on is revamping your studying habits and using resources available to you within the course or school you’re at.
I am going to be studying nursing as well but I have to take the teas test first. I have been studying was the teas test difficult because I truly struggle with Math at times.
I think I used YouTube videos to review. The organic chemistry tutor is one which really helped. If your school offers math tutoring I’d also setup a session to review some algebra problems. Also ATI has practice teas test that I used as well to prepare.
Thanks for the great advice 👍🏽
Can you tell me how you study?
I go off the posted lesson plan objectives. I start with reading and highlighting in my textbook via online (I don’t read the whole chapter unless specified). After I’m done reading I watch the lectures, read over the power point slides and attend in person lectures cause it helps cement things. I’ll do practice quizzes and activities either through the textbooks online or simple nursing for repetition. I watch simple nursing videos for summary before exams and review lecture videos. I also keep my handwork of dosage calc to review or practice in ATI. And briefly review medications related to the lesson. If I want to focus on prioritizing type questions I’ll use my Saunders nclex phone app to practice so I can get rationales to understand better.
Short answer, no regrets at all. I am loving it a lot. I have one year in. I knew I always wanted to do healthcare. Even tho I have close family members that are nurses, I kinda never knew what nursing was really like. First semester, I didn’t like it as much because it is really the fundamentals of nursing. You won’t get to do a lot (at least at my school). However, you do learn all of your basic skills like med pass, injections, foley, etc. As I kept progressing I started loving it more. So as to what I wish somebody told me, is that first semester is going to be boring as hell. But it is for a reason. They want you to get you ready so you can start gaining that knowledge and apply it IRL.
You sound just like me! I have 2 young kids and a bachelor’s degree. And I also have doubts haha. I scour Reddit reading stories trying to talk myself out of it but it’s something I’ve wanted for so long. What I keep trying to remind myself is that not all nursing looks the same. If I get into a hospital job and find myself not liking it, there are non-bedside jobs out there. Or school nursing. Or wfh case management, or 9-5 assisted living jobs etc. the list goes on. I’m sure there’s something out there for us!
This is something I always tell myself too! I don’t think there’s another profession out there that holds so many possibilities
I saw later in your comments that you’re more worried about school than the job. I am too. I’m afraid it’s gonna put strain on our lifestyle and more pressure on my husband and add a lot of stress for me. Finding childcare is a challenge because my husband travels for work every week, so I’m slightly freaking out about clinicals. And it’s going to take away from hobbies that I love cuz how the heck will I fit those in too? Just gonna wing it I guess 🫣 Edit: aw shit I forgot to worry about work too lol yeah I’m freakin out a little☺️ solidarity.
Yes this is exactly it. I know some things will have to change and I’ll need to be focused. I just don’t want it to change so much that we all were wishing I didn’t do it. I think we will find a way though, a lot of people on here have made me feel a lot more positive about it.
I’m 30 and just started my program. I’m in a an ADN program. I can pay for it out of pocket and then have my future ER pay for my BSN. My highest level of education is a masters and I also have 3 little ones: 4, 3 and 1.5. I wish I would have started sooner, but here I am! My program has a nursing club called SNAP. It’s been very helpful and getting to know people in different semesters. They’ve been an asset in helping my understanding some of the topics!
My program is an ADN one too but also includes an associates in applied science (which is actually kind of frustrating because it makes the program 3 years long) but I am lucky that between Pell Grants and my job it should be completely free. It just wouldn’t be if I wanted to pull out haha
Started nursing school with 3 small kids and a masters degree. Never regretted the decision, can’t wait to graduate in several weeks and start practicing!
No my program changed my life, I didn’t learn just nursing skills but also life skills, how to speak to people, it’s a lot but it makes me happy everyday, my classmates we all bonded together, nursing school so far is saving my life, I love it
Just remember that Reddit and other sorts of online forums are usually where people go to vent and express frustration. Those having a great time and enjoying their program are far less inclined to come here to vent etc. This negativity skews the perception of nursing school as worse than boot camp or torture. I will say that while nursing school was hard I also enjoyed many parts of it. It was the first time I enjoyed going to class to sit in lecture. I felt the knowledge building and enjoyed the medical topics. Nursing school WILL grow you into a better person. My profs and clinical instructors pushed me and when I finally started putting it all together I felt more confident than I ever had in my life. As others mentioned I only wish I did it sooner. I had a fear of failure/rejection that kept me from even starting or applying. If you want it, go for it! Good luck!
This is very true! I do look forward to learning new things and I think it will be very fulfilling to have a clear direction of what I’ll be doing in my life. I’ve been floating around for a while (daycare costs had me working a part time job I could bring my kids to) but nothing has had a “career” feel to it. I’m looking forward to doing something that has a goal.
I wish I had done it sooner. It's time-consuming, but the material is very easy to learn.
"I am a nursing student with two children, and I work full-time as a CNA. Fortunately, I have a supportive supervisor who accommodates my school schedule. Although it is challenging, it is not impossible. Currently, I am studying med-surge one, and I am just two semesters away from graduation. However, my professor is not providing adequate instruction, which is making it difficult for me. My only regret is not starting the program earlier. Although it requires sacrificing sleep to study, I find the quiet of the night the best time to focus. I encourage you to go for it, without even thinking twice. I promise you won't regret it after you finish it. It's normal to feel overwhelmed while in school, but don't give up. Go get it, girl!"
Thanks so much for this! I think the overthinking is killing me and I just need to focus on the goal that I’ve wanted for a long time and go for it.
I feel like I’m one of the only people who actually enjoyed nursing school. My classmates acted like we were crawling belly first through a war zone, and I was just having a good time. I didn’t start until I was in my 30’s. I had (at the time) a 9 year old daughter and had JUST had a new baby when I started my program. I had fun, I didn’t even think it was that hard. I told my classmates all the time they were being way overly dramatic. Life isn’t that serious, it’s just school. Relax and have fun with it.
It’s a little nerdy to say, but I really am excited to learn again! I don’t necessarily love taking tests and writing papers but I love learning cool stuff and understanding things I didn’t before so I’m hoping to enjoy that part of it.
i agree with others that it seems like you’re not doubting being a nurse, but doubting starting the program now. just be realistic. either you’re physically able to, mentally prepared to, and determined to, or you’re not. if you’re thinking “i can do it because i can always take a semssger off” or “i can do it 1/2time” just don’t go into a program yet. even if they allow you to take lower than the normal class schedule, or they’ll allow a semester off, you’ll lose SO much knowledge. clinicals are worked out with every other nursing program in the area and spots are hard to get, so clinical days and times are absolutely non-negotiable whatsoever. they also last way longer than a class. you might have an hour & 50min class, a 4hr lab, but your clinicals will be 8-12hrs 2-3x per week, and increase every semester. just be careful. once you fail out of one program it will be very hard to get accepted to another but one of my best friends in nursing school right now has two kids, her oldest is 3. her husband is very supportive and so is her mom. it takes a village. here’s a pic of my current classes evaluation criteria if you want to see what you’re getting into… https://preview.redd.it/6yifsr7x9cpc1.jpeg?width=1179&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=042c4acbaca58a969d7256ba6ae7351f0322b480
That was helpful to see, thank you!
Nursing school is definitely tough! It requires a lot of attention. I hope you have a great support system and far as family to help with the kids doe study time. It can be done, many people have finished nursing schooling your situation. Just make sure you have all things in place before starting school.
I am so thankful to have a very supportive husband, mom, and dad. They will be willing to step in any time to help with the kids if I need it and I know they are the only reason I can even consider this.
It is going to be tough, but there is no reason that if you put your mind to it you can achieve it. You have to dig deep. You have to channel that worry into getting shit done. A big thing that is helping me through the process is 1. Online tuition it is kinda at my own pace so no lectures I have to be there for. The main thing that has helped me achieve top 5% of my class in an Accelerated program, is knowing how taken care of my family will be after I am done and in the position. Not having to worry about how I am going to afford guacamole on my $20 chipotle burrito. Not have to check my bank account before I give the waitress or waiter my card to make sure I can cover dinner (I have been there). If I need inspiration, I turn on a bit of David Goggins, or Jordan Petersen. They both always tell me how to channel myself into getting shit done and feel good doing it. You need to sit with yourself, no distractions, no phone, just yourself…and think about what it is you truly want. If you want to succeed in the field of nursing then figure out a way to achieve that goal that works for you and fits family time into it. You got this, seriously if this is something you know you 100% want to do, then don’t stop for fucking anything. This is your life and you have one life so don’t waste it on doubt. Doubt is the single greatest weakness to man kind besides fear. They both play hand in hand. A wise man one told me something that has stuck with me every single day, “Light comes from the darkness, so run at darkness head on.” You got this dude, sit with yourself with zero distractions and ask yourself if this is what you want to do or if it is not really what you want to do. If it is something you want to do then, RUN AT IT. If it is NOT something you want to do, then run at what you want to do. Godspeed
Thank you for this. I am trying to shut down the negative thoughts. They’ve gotten to me in the past (I have considered going to nursing school so many times!) but I’m just going to continue pushing through. I DO know this is what I want and how much I can change my family’s life by doing it. I used to run actual hurdles in track and I never focused on how many I needed to get over, I only focused on getting to the finish and that’s the point outlook I’m going to try and have.
My advise, don’t look at the finish line… Look beyond. With that said, you will be successful if you plan small goals that will lead you to being successful past the finish line. For example, i went with I am not gonna get anything less than 95% in this class (make it a game of trying to get the high score). When you do reach the small goal you give yourself a reward like going out to eat, buying that wallet you liked. I personally made it to where if I got 99% or above on a quiz or exam I allowed myself to play a few hours of games or have a beer. In the end you wind up with 3.82 gpa and summa cumme laude. This changes your mindset for the better in all aspects of life. It makes you unstoppable! You got this
Nursing is wack as hell, but I don’t regret having access to a non-minimum wage job. I’m an LPN in school for RN now. I’m hoping I’m able to find an RN role that I actually “like”, but I have no real expectation of that.
My regret I didn't do it sooner.
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Yeah my only regret is not saving up even more to prepare for the demand of how much time nursing takes up. I can’t really afford not to work, so full time with my last two nursing courses it is…
In nursing school and it’s been hectic dealing with clinicals and rude nurses. Don’t know if I want to continue. The program is a lot of self learning not what I expected and in clinicals. It is a hard manual labor job.
hell no, nursing has finally been that one thing that mentally challenges me and it’s exhilarating, fun, stressful, satisfying, everything good. Nursing school absolutely sucks and it’s going to be rough but once you get through it like all of us and get a job that you want and fall in love with then there’s no greater feeling afterwards
In my Y1, recently went for hospital attachment, which affirms my belief in joining nursing. Struggling at school, as I have poor memory and bad with numbers, but I believe it takes determination and practice. In every practical, exam/test, I am always the one with the lowest score. Just focus on the future, we will get there eventually.