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What can I during high school to prepare myself for the major of Nursing?
I specifically want to have a career of being a NICU Nurse.
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8 answers
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey,
Gabriella, it's awesome that you're already thinking ahead about becoming a NICU nurse! That level of planning will set you up for success. Since NICU nursing requires strong medical knowledge, hands-on experience, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations, here’s how you can prepare while still in high school:
1. Build a Strong Academic Foundation
Take biology, chemistry, and anatomy & physiology to build a solid science background.
If available, enroll in AP Biology, AP Chemistry, or dual enrollment courses to get a head start on college prerequisites.
Math is key—algebra and statistics will help with medication calculations and patient data analysis.
Psychology can be valuable for understanding newborn development and parental support.
2. Get Hands-On Experience in Healthcare
Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a great way to gain patient care experience before nursing school. Many programs allow students to start training at 16-17 years old.
Volunteering at hospitals, especially in maternity or pediatrics, will expose you to the hospital environment. Some NICUs allow volunteers, so check with local hospitals.
Shadowing a NICU nurse can give you direct insight into the role and expectations.
3. Develop Essential Soft Skills
NICU nurses care for fragile newborns and work closely with distressed parents. Developing strong communication, patience, and emotional resilience will be crucial. You can build these skills by working in team settings, taking leadership roles, or even tutoring younger students.
4. Explore Extracurricular Opportunities
Join HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) if your school offers it—it’s a great way to learn more about healthcare careers and compete in medical-related events.
Get certified in CPR and First Aid, and if possible, take an EMT or phlebotomy course. These can help with future job opportunities and provide hands-on skills.
Participate in science fairs or medical clubs to deepen your knowledge and demonstrate commitment to the field.
5. Start Researching Nursing Programs
Look into BSN programs (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) since many hospitals prefer NICU nurses to have a four-year degree.
Check out direct-entry nursing programs or universities with strong neonatal/pediatric nursing tracks.
Some schools offer early assurance programs for high school students, guaranteeing a spot in nursing school if you meet certain criteria.
6. Plan Financially & Apply for Scholarships
There are plenty of nursing scholarships available, such as the Tylenol Future Care Scholarship and Johnson & Johnson Nursing Scholarships—start keeping track of deadlines!
Some hospitals and organizations offer tuition reimbursement or sponsorships for nursing students, so keep an eye out for those opportunities.
7. Learn More About NICU Nursing
Read books like The NICU Journey by Carolynn Thomas Jones or Your Baby in the NICU by Lara B. Zieses.
Follow NICU nurses on social media or YouTube to get a real-world perspective.
Familiarize yourself with neonatal conditions, treatments, and family-centered care principles.
By focusing on academics, hands-on experience, and professional development now, you'll be well-prepared for nursing school and beyond. The NICU is an intense but deeply rewarding field, and your early preparation will give you a strong advantage. Keep pushing forward—you’ve got this! Good luck! 🤗
Gabriella, it's awesome that you're already thinking ahead about becoming a NICU nurse! That level of planning will set you up for success. Since NICU nursing requires strong medical knowledge, hands-on experience, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations, here’s how you can prepare while still in high school:
1. Build a Strong Academic Foundation
Take biology, chemistry, and anatomy & physiology to build a solid science background.
If available, enroll in AP Biology, AP Chemistry, or dual enrollment courses to get a head start on college prerequisites.
Math is key—algebra and statistics will help with medication calculations and patient data analysis.
Psychology can be valuable for understanding newborn development and parental support.
2. Get Hands-On Experience in Healthcare
Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is a great way to gain patient care experience before nursing school. Many programs allow students to start training at 16-17 years old.
Volunteering at hospitals, especially in maternity or pediatrics, will expose you to the hospital environment. Some NICUs allow volunteers, so check with local hospitals.
Shadowing a NICU nurse can give you direct insight into the role and expectations.
3. Develop Essential Soft Skills
NICU nurses care for fragile newborns and work closely with distressed parents. Developing strong communication, patience, and emotional resilience will be crucial. You can build these skills by working in team settings, taking leadership roles, or even tutoring younger students.
4. Explore Extracurricular Opportunities
Join HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) if your school offers it—it’s a great way to learn more about healthcare careers and compete in medical-related events.
Get certified in CPR and First Aid, and if possible, take an EMT or phlebotomy course. These can help with future job opportunities and provide hands-on skills.
Participate in science fairs or medical clubs to deepen your knowledge and demonstrate commitment to the field.
5. Start Researching Nursing Programs
Look into BSN programs (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) since many hospitals prefer NICU nurses to have a four-year degree.
Check out direct-entry nursing programs or universities with strong neonatal/pediatric nursing tracks.
Some schools offer early assurance programs for high school students, guaranteeing a spot in nursing school if you meet certain criteria.
6. Plan Financially & Apply for Scholarships
There are plenty of nursing scholarships available, such as the Tylenol Future Care Scholarship and Johnson & Johnson Nursing Scholarships—start keeping track of deadlines!
Some hospitals and organizations offer tuition reimbursement or sponsorships for nursing students, so keep an eye out for those opportunities.
7. Learn More About NICU Nursing
Read books like The NICU Journey by Carolynn Thomas Jones or Your Baby in the NICU by Lara B. Zieses.
Follow NICU nurses on social media or YouTube to get a real-world perspective.
Familiarize yourself with neonatal conditions, treatments, and family-centered care principles.
By focusing on academics, hands-on experience, and professional development now, you'll be well-prepared for nursing school and beyond. The NICU is an intense but deeply rewarding field, and your early preparation will give you a strong advantage. Keep pushing forward—you’ve got this! Good luck! 🤗
Updated
Susana’s Answer
Gabriella, that's an amazing goal! Becoming a NICU Nurse requires specialized skills and dedication, and there are several things you can do in high school to prepare for your Nursing major and future career.
1. Take Relevant High School Courses
a. Biology & Human Anatomy – Builds foundational knowledge of the human body.
b. Chemistry – Essential for understanding medications and bodily functions.
c. Psychology – Helps with understanding newborn behavior and family dynamics.
d. Statistics or Math – Useful for medication dosage calculations.
e Advanced Placement (AP) or Dual Enrollment – If possible, take AP Biology, AP Chemistry, or Anatomy & Physiology to strengthen your college applications.
2. Gain Healthcare Experience (Hands-On Exposure)
a. Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) – Many NICU Nurses start as CNAs to gain hands-on experience with patient care. You can train and get certified while in high school.
b. Volunteer at Hospitals or Clinics – Check if local hospitals (especially those with NICUs) allow high school volunteers.
c. Shadow a NICU Nurse – Reach out to hospitals or nursing schools to see if you can observe NICU nurses in action.
d. Work in a Healthcare-Related Job – Even non-clinical roles (such as a front desk job at a clinic) expose you to the medical environment.
3. Join Health-Related Clubs & Programs
a. HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) – A great way to build leadership skills and learn about healthcare careers.
b. Red Cross or EMT Training – Some high schools offer Red Cross CPR/First Aid or EMT courses, which are valuable for nurses.
c. Science Olympiad or Medical Clubs – Participate in competitions related to healthcare.
4. Develop Soft Skills Needed for NICU Nursing
a. Compassion & Patience – NICU nurses care for fragile newborns and support emotional parents.
b. Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving – Learn to stay calm under pressure.
c. Communication Skills – You’ll need to explain medical terms to parents in distress.
d. Time Management – Balancing work, school, and volunteering will prepare you for nursing school.
5. Get Familiar with the Nursing Field & NICU Specialty
ab Read Books & Research NICU Nursing
"The NICU Journey" by Carolynn Thomas Jones
"Your Baby in the NICU" by Lara B. Zieses
b. Follow NICU Nurses on social media – Many shares real-life experiences (check YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok).
c. Learn About the Education Path
d. Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
e. Pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
f. Gain experience in pediatrics or maternity wards before moving into the NICU.
g. Consider becoming a Certified Neonatal Nurse (RNC-NIC) after gaining experience.
6. Plan for College & Scholarships
a. Research Nursing Schools – Look for programs with strong pediatric or neonatal nursing training.
b. Apply for Scholarships – Many nursing organizations offer financial aid (e.g., Tylenol Future Care Scholarship, Johnson & Johnson Nursing Scholarships).
Final Advice
Starting early will give you a strong advantage when applying to nursing school. Focus on building healthcare experience, taking relevant classes, and developing patient-care skills
1. Take Relevant High School Courses
a. Biology & Human Anatomy – Builds foundational knowledge of the human body.
b. Chemistry – Essential for understanding medications and bodily functions.
c. Psychology – Helps with understanding newborn behavior and family dynamics.
d. Statistics or Math – Useful for medication dosage calculations.
e Advanced Placement (AP) or Dual Enrollment – If possible, take AP Biology, AP Chemistry, or Anatomy & Physiology to strengthen your college applications.
2. Gain Healthcare Experience (Hands-On Exposure)
a. Become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) – Many NICU Nurses start as CNAs to gain hands-on experience with patient care. You can train and get certified while in high school.
b. Volunteer at Hospitals or Clinics – Check if local hospitals (especially those with NICUs) allow high school volunteers.
c. Shadow a NICU Nurse – Reach out to hospitals or nursing schools to see if you can observe NICU nurses in action.
d. Work in a Healthcare-Related Job – Even non-clinical roles (such as a front desk job at a clinic) expose you to the medical environment.
3. Join Health-Related Clubs & Programs
a. HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) – A great way to build leadership skills and learn about healthcare careers.
b. Red Cross or EMT Training – Some high schools offer Red Cross CPR/First Aid or EMT courses, which are valuable for nurses.
c. Science Olympiad or Medical Clubs – Participate in competitions related to healthcare.
4. Develop Soft Skills Needed for NICU Nursing
a. Compassion & Patience – NICU nurses care for fragile newborns and support emotional parents.
b. Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving – Learn to stay calm under pressure.
c. Communication Skills – You’ll need to explain medical terms to parents in distress.
d. Time Management – Balancing work, school, and volunteering will prepare you for nursing school.
5. Get Familiar with the Nursing Field & NICU Specialty
ab Read Books & Research NICU Nursing
"The NICU Journey" by Carolynn Thomas Jones
"Your Baby in the NICU" by Lara B. Zieses
b. Follow NICU Nurses on social media – Many shares real-life experiences (check YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok).
c. Learn About the Education Path
d. Earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
e. Pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
f. Gain experience in pediatrics or maternity wards before moving into the NICU.
g. Consider becoming a Certified Neonatal Nurse (RNC-NIC) after gaining experience.
6. Plan for College & Scholarships
a. Research Nursing Schools – Look for programs with strong pediatric or neonatal nursing training.
b. Apply for Scholarships – Many nursing organizations offer financial aid (e.g., Tylenol Future Care Scholarship, Johnson & Johnson Nursing Scholarships).
Final Advice
Starting early will give you a strong advantage when applying to nursing school. Focus on building healthcare experience, taking relevant classes, and developing patient-care skills
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Gabriella there are two levels of nursing categories: non-degree and degree. Non-degree nurses include Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), who complete nursing education programs that don’t culminate in a 2 or 4 year degree. Degree nurses include those with an undergraduate degree in the field, such as an 2-year Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or a 4-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
NURSES / HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA
💊 CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT (CNA) — Typically work in home care and long-term care settings. Also referred to as “nursing assistants” and “nursing aides,” CNAs often serve as the primary point of contact between the patient’s family members and the healthcare organization. They assist with the patient’s daily activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, and ambulating. CNAs provide companionship for their patients as well as compassionate care.
• EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS: Becoming a CNA typically requires a high school diploma or GED, as well as completion of a state-approved CNA program. These programs usually take 3 to 8 weeks to complete and require a specified number of training hours, classroom hours, and lab or clinical practice. Once program requirements are completed, aspiring CNAs must pass a state-approved exam to earn their CNA title and become state-certified.
• CNA MEDIAN SALARY $48,000
💊 LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSE (LPN) —
Also known as licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), are responsible for providing patient care by acting as the primary communicator between the health care team and patient. They also may be responsible for communicating with the patient’s family. LPNs monitor patients’ health and do some physical care tasks, such as taking blood pressure, inserting catheters, starting IVs, and changing bandages. Whether or not the LPN needs supervision to perform these tasks varies by state.
• EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Becoming an LPN does not require an associate degree or bachelor’s degree, but rather, the successful completion of a Practical Nursing Program. These programs can be completed within one year and are designed for people who are working while attending the program. To receive your state license, which grants you the ability to practice, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurse (NCLEX-PN).
• LPN MEDIAN SALARY $60,500
REGISTERED NURSE / COLLEGE DEGREES
Most people equate the word “nurse” with the role of a registered nurse (RN). RNs have a broad range of responsibilities, including administering medication, contributing to a patient’s plan of care, and collaborating with medical doctors. In some workplaces, RNs oversee CNAs and LPNs. You should take the following classes in high school to give yourself a head start on your nursing class prerequisites for college:
• ENGLISH — 4 years
• MATH — 3-4 years (algebra and geometry)
• SCIENCE — 2-4 years (including biology)
• CHEMISTRY — ( including physics)
• SOCIAL STUDIES — 3-4 years
• FOREIGN LANGUAGE — 2 years
Check out nursing prerequisites at the college you are considering. Individual nursing schools vary in their nursing course prerequisites. Talk to your high school guidance counselor and check out the websites of the California nursing schools you are considering.
🩺 RN — ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING —
The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program is focused on nursing fundamentals. Occasionally called an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or an Associate of Arts in Nursing (AAN), these degrees are usually earned through attendance at a two-year community college or university. Some ADN completion programs can take as little as 18 months.
• EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: ADN graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN. Upon passing the exam and becoming licensed, they will be eligible to work as RNs.
• RN-ADN MEDIAN SALARY $76,000
🩺 RN — BACHELOR SCIENCE NURSING —
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is earned by attending a four-year college or university with a dedicated nursing program. Some BSN completion programs can take as little as 18 or 21 months to complete.
• EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Like the ADN program, the BSN program prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN. Upon passing the exam and gaining licensure, BSN graduates will be eligible to work as nurses in any of a variety of roles. Generally, job prospects and earning potentials are greater for nurses with a BSN than for those with an ADN.
• RN-BSN MEDIAN SALARY $90,000
Hope this was helpful Gabriella
NURSES / HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA
💊 CERTIFIED NURSING ASSISTANT (CNA) — Typically work in home care and long-term care settings. Also referred to as “nursing assistants” and “nursing aides,” CNAs often serve as the primary point of contact between the patient’s family members and the healthcare organization. They assist with the patient’s daily activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, and ambulating. CNAs provide companionship for their patients as well as compassionate care.
• EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS: Becoming a CNA typically requires a high school diploma or GED, as well as completion of a state-approved CNA program. These programs usually take 3 to 8 weeks to complete and require a specified number of training hours, classroom hours, and lab or clinical practice. Once program requirements are completed, aspiring CNAs must pass a state-approved exam to earn their CNA title and become state-certified.
• CNA MEDIAN SALARY $48,000
💊 LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSE (LPN) —
Also known as licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), are responsible for providing patient care by acting as the primary communicator between the health care team and patient. They also may be responsible for communicating with the patient’s family. LPNs monitor patients’ health and do some physical care tasks, such as taking blood pressure, inserting catheters, starting IVs, and changing bandages. Whether or not the LPN needs supervision to perform these tasks varies by state.
• EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Becoming an LPN does not require an associate degree or bachelor’s degree, but rather, the successful completion of a Practical Nursing Program. These programs can be completed within one year and are designed for people who are working while attending the program. To receive your state license, which grants you the ability to practice, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurse (NCLEX-PN).
• LPN MEDIAN SALARY $60,500
REGISTERED NURSE / COLLEGE DEGREES
Most people equate the word “nurse” with the role of a registered nurse (RN). RNs have a broad range of responsibilities, including administering medication, contributing to a patient’s plan of care, and collaborating with medical doctors. In some workplaces, RNs oversee CNAs and LPNs. You should take the following classes in high school to give yourself a head start on your nursing class prerequisites for college:
• ENGLISH — 4 years
• MATH — 3-4 years (algebra and geometry)
• SCIENCE — 2-4 years (including biology)
• CHEMISTRY — ( including physics)
• SOCIAL STUDIES — 3-4 years
• FOREIGN LANGUAGE — 2 years
Check out nursing prerequisites at the college you are considering. Individual nursing schools vary in their nursing course prerequisites. Talk to your high school guidance counselor and check out the websites of the California nursing schools you are considering.
🩺 RN — ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING —
The Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program is focused on nursing fundamentals. Occasionally called an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or an Associate of Arts in Nursing (AAN), these degrees are usually earned through attendance at a two-year community college or university. Some ADN completion programs can take as little as 18 months.
• EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS: ADN graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN. Upon passing the exam and becoming licensed, they will be eligible to work as RNs.
• RN-ADN MEDIAN SALARY $76,000
🩺 RN — BACHELOR SCIENCE NURSING —
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree is earned by attending a four-year college or university with a dedicated nursing program. Some BSN completion programs can take as little as 18 or 21 months to complete.
• EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Like the ADN program, the BSN program prepares students to take the NCLEX-RN. Upon passing the exam and gaining licensure, BSN graduates will be eligible to work as nurses in any of a variety of roles. Generally, job prospects and earning potentials are greater for nurses with a BSN than for those with an ADN.
• RN-BSN MEDIAN SALARY $90,000
Hope this was helpful Gabriella
Updated
Laura’s Answer
I love that you are already seeking information regarding your career! You are definitely off to a great start.
As a few folk mentioned above, getting strong grades in your core science classes will help you get accepted into nursing program.
I strongly recommend looking for medical assistance or certified nursing assistant position related to your desired field of interest.
This will set you apart when you start applying for RN positions as a new graduate.
In Maryland, you can obtain your CNA license after completing 1 year of nursing school. I advise you look into the requirements for your state of residence. Working part-time as CNA will give you great experience and advantage.
I hope this helps :)
As a few folk mentioned above, getting strong grades in your core science classes will help you get accepted into nursing program.
I strongly recommend looking for medical assistance or certified nursing assistant position related to your desired field of interest.
This will set you apart when you start applying for RN positions as a new graduate.
In Maryland, you can obtain your CNA license after completing 1 year of nursing school. I advise you look into the requirements for your state of residence. Working part-time as CNA will give you great experience and advantage.
I hope this helps :)
Updated
Albert’s Answer
I'm not a nurse, but as a physician I can tell you how much I appreciated them during my career. It is they who care for patients my role was basically to make the diagnosis and outline the treatment plan. Often that treatment plan would be altered because of what the nurse thought or saw when caring for the patient.
As a high school student contemplating nursing, I would advise speaking to nurses about the professions and get involved in volunteer work helping people. This may help in your application to nursing programs, but more importantly it will expose you to a wide range of people with different life experiences. The latter will help you during your career in nursing.
As a high school student contemplating nursing, I would advise speaking to nurses about the professions and get involved in volunteer work helping people. This may help in your application to nursing programs, but more importantly it will expose you to a wide range of people with different life experiences. The latter will help you during your career in nursing.
Updated
Linda’s Answer
Are you already accepted into a program? If so, congratulations; if not, or for others, study and do well, especially in sciences, try to get in AP classes, and get the best grades you can. Try to ace your prerequisites. It's difficult to get into a program in CA. The competition is stiff. Unless you're a top-notch candidate or going out of state or into major debt for a private school. Also, volunteer, become a CNA as recommended, and be able to communicate compelling reasons for your choice of nursing.
You can achieve your goal, and it's worth it, but it will be hard work.
You can achieve your goal, and it's worth it, but it will be hard work.
Updated
Thomas’s Answer
I can't give a better answer than those who answered before me, but I can offer a different answer: Choose education paths carefully. Nursing at every level of preparation is a difficult major. One would study just as hard to be a doctor, therapist, psychologist, accountant or lawyer. Your service to clients will be just as valuable and appreciated.
Realize that nurses in general are disempowered primarily because of its history of gender dominance and the fact that nurses are considered an expense in most health care settings. The startup wage is comparatively good for an Associates Degree prepared nurse v. other Associate Degree graduates, but it changes little with a BSN and is only moderately improved with a MSN. If one of your goals is a good wage after graduation with least amount education, ADN is a good choice.
Burnout rates in nurses is high. New graduate nurses continue to report high levels of stress, anxiety and burnout during their initial years in the workforce (Casey, Fink, Krugman, & Propst, 2004; Laschinger & Grau, 2012; Parker, Giles, Lantry, & McMillan, 2014), leading many of them to consider leaving the profession in their first 2–5 years of practice (Parker et al., 2014; Rudman, Gustavsson, & Hultell, 2014). The rater is higher in intensive care specialties.
NICU nurses are needed and nursing is an honorable profession. Please consider all the advice given for your question on this site and good luck.
Spence Laschinger HK, Wong C, Read E, Cummings G, Leiter M, Macphee M, Regan S, Rhéaume-Brüning A, Ritchie J, Burkoski V, Grinspun D, Gurnham ME, Huckstep S, Jeffs L, Macdonald-Rencz S, Ruffolo M, Shamian J, Wolff A, Young-Ritchie C, Wood K. Predictors of new graduate nurses' health over the first 4 years of practice. Nurs Open. 2018 Dec 19;6(2):245-259. doi: 10.1002/nop2.231. PMID: 30918676; PMCID: PMC6419115.
Realize that nurses in general are disempowered primarily because of its history of gender dominance and the fact that nurses are considered an expense in most health care settings. The startup wage is comparatively good for an Associates Degree prepared nurse v. other Associate Degree graduates, but it changes little with a BSN and is only moderately improved with a MSN. If one of your goals is a good wage after graduation with least amount education, ADN is a good choice.
Burnout rates in nurses is high. New graduate nurses continue to report high levels of stress, anxiety and burnout during their initial years in the workforce (Casey, Fink, Krugman, & Propst, 2004; Laschinger & Grau, 2012; Parker, Giles, Lantry, & McMillan, 2014), leading many of them to consider leaving the profession in their first 2–5 years of practice (Parker et al., 2014; Rudman, Gustavsson, & Hultell, 2014). The rater is higher in intensive care specialties.
NICU nurses are needed and nursing is an honorable profession. Please consider all the advice given for your question on this site and good luck.
Spence Laschinger HK, Wong C, Read E, Cummings G, Leiter M, Macphee M, Regan S, Rhéaume-Brüning A, Ritchie J, Burkoski V, Grinspun D, Gurnham ME, Huckstep S, Jeffs L, Macdonald-Rencz S, Ruffolo M, Shamian J, Wolff A, Young-Ritchie C, Wood K. Predictors of new graduate nurses' health over the first 4 years of practice. Nurs Open. 2018 Dec 19;6(2):245-259. doi: 10.1002/nop2.231. PMID: 30918676; PMCID: PMC6419115.
Updated
James’s Answer
The wonderful thing about nursing is that one can branch out into just about anything that motivates you during your career journey. Although everyone will suggest you focus on the core sciences, a breadth of experiences allows any healthcare worker to connect with their patients and families more readily. Certainly psychology, sociology, and language proficiency are helpful. You live in a culturally diverse city, and NICUs tend to be in similar cities. Learning about history and culture is helpful.
So, while you are still in high school, I would recommend the obvious about getting good grades, but follow what gives you joy - don't neglect sports or extra-curricular activities that you love. One does need to do well enough to get into college, but do not fret - you do not need to get into a "stretch" school to succeed.
Look into volunteer opportunities at local hospitals or doctor's offices/clinics.
Consider getting EMT-1 training, MA training, or similar. These give one excellent experience while also allowing you to make some money during college and grad school.
Finally, don't be afraid of strange turns in your path. As you explore opportunities, you may find something that excites you more than neonatology. Or you may end up a neonatologist or a Chief Nursing Officer.
Enjoy the ride!
So, while you are still in high school, I would recommend the obvious about getting good grades, but follow what gives you joy - don't neglect sports or extra-curricular activities that you love. One does need to do well enough to get into college, but do not fret - you do not need to get into a "stretch" school to succeed.
Look into volunteer opportunities at local hospitals or doctor's offices/clinics.
Consider getting EMT-1 training, MA training, or similar. These give one excellent experience while also allowing you to make some money during college and grad school.
Finally, don't be afraid of strange turns in your path. As you explore opportunities, you may find something that excites you more than neonatology. Or you may end up a neonatologist or a Chief Nursing Officer.
Enjoy the ride!