5 answers
Ellie
Student
Wheaton, Illinois
1
Question
Updated
944 views
What is the most helpful advice for getting through nursing school?
Hi, I’m planning on going into pediatric oncology nursing since I was diagnosed with cancer as a kid. I love helping kids and being energetic. My question is, What is the most helpful piece of advice you have for getting through nursing school? #Spring25
Login to comment
5 answers
Cheryl Gamble
Nurse Anesthesiology
9
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Cheryl’s Answer
Hi Ellie,
First, wow, what a way to give back, wanting to work with pediatric cancer patients.
Most all nursing programs now want their students to become Certified Nursing Assistants. Which as nurse, I totally agree. As a student nurse I worked as a nursing assistant on weekends, some evenings. Back at that time, there was not a certification for that. But I will tell you, I learned so much and while in school, everything just clicked because I was actually doing some of it already or watched and/or assisted the RNs doing it.
Truly was a very helpful endeavor. I also made time for study groups, which were so great in learning/teaching the material. Get plenty of sleep too. Need to be sure to take of yourself and start this early, so that when you are taking care of others, you do not get burned out.
My study group friends were a lifeline.
Good Luck.
First, wow, what a way to give back, wanting to work with pediatric cancer patients.
Most all nursing programs now want their students to become Certified Nursing Assistants. Which as nurse, I totally agree. As a student nurse I worked as a nursing assistant on weekends, some evenings. Back at that time, there was not a certification for that. But I will tell you, I learned so much and while in school, everything just clicked because I was actually doing some of it already or watched and/or assisted the RNs doing it.
Truly was a very helpful endeavor. I also made time for study groups, which were so great in learning/teaching the material. Get plenty of sleep too. Need to be sure to take of yourself and start this early, so that when you are taking care of others, you do not get burned out.
My study group friends were a lifeline.
Good Luck.
Idalsy Cruz
5
Answers
Lawrence, Massachusetts
Updated
Idalsy’s Answer
The most helpful advice I can give is to be kind to yourself and always stay true to your dreams and passion. Nursing school is incredibly demanding both mentally and physically, so it’s important to prioritize your well-being throughout the journey. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, especially in the beginning. None of us can do it alone, and building a strong support system is essential. Lean on your loved ones for encouragement and guidance they can be a source of strength during the toughest moments.
Remember your "why" every step of the way. In your case, your experience as a childhood cancer survivor gives you a powerful and unique perspective. That personal journey will allow you to connect with your future pediatric patients in ways others may not be able to. Your story, your empathy, and your energy will bring comfort and hope to children who need it most. Hold onto that purpose it will guide you, especially on the hard days.
Remember your "why" every step of the way. In your case, your experience as a childhood cancer survivor gives you a powerful and unique perspective. That personal journey will allow you to connect with your future pediatric patients in ways others may not be able to. Your story, your empathy, and your energy will bring comfort and hope to children who need it most. Hold onto that purpose it will guide you, especially on the hard days.
Julian Moreno MSN, RN, MEDSURG-BC, CRRN, CDP
Registered Nurse
9
Answers
Middletown, New Jersey
Updated
Julian’s Answer
Organization is crucial for success in your studies. Be attentive to the deadlines for each of your classes, and take note of your instructors' and facilitators' teaching styles. Set aside regular study time in the quietest environment you can find. Staying organized and understanding your professors' methods will help you manage your workload effectively.
1. Create a Study Schedule: Develop a weekly or monthly calendar that outlines all important deadlines, exams, and assignment due dates. This will help you visualize your workload and plan your study sessions accordingly.
2. Use Organizational Tools: Invest in tools like planners, digital apps, or note-taking software that can help you keep track of tasks, class notes, and important dates. Color coding your subjects can also enhance clarity and organization.
3. Identify Your Learning Style: Understand your learning preferences—whether you learn best through visual aids, auditory resources, or hands-on practice. Tailor your study methods to align with these preferences to enhance retention and understanding.
4. Designate a Study Space: Find a consistent, quiet place to study where you can concentrate without distractions. Keep this area organized and stocked with all necessary materials to maximize your efficiency during study sessions.
5. Practice Time Management: Break your study sessions into manageable chunks using techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, where you study for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break. This can help maintain focus over longer periods and reduce burnout.
1. Create a Study Schedule: Develop a weekly or monthly calendar that outlines all important deadlines, exams, and assignment due dates. This will help you visualize your workload and plan your study sessions accordingly.
2. Use Organizational Tools: Invest in tools like planners, digital apps, or note-taking software that can help you keep track of tasks, class notes, and important dates. Color coding your subjects can also enhance clarity and organization.
3. Identify Your Learning Style: Understand your learning preferences—whether you learn best through visual aids, auditory resources, or hands-on practice. Tailor your study methods to align with these preferences to enhance retention and understanding.
4. Designate a Study Space: Find a consistent, quiet place to study where you can concentrate without distractions. Keep this area organized and stocked with all necessary materials to maximize your efficiency during study sessions.
5. Practice Time Management: Break your study sessions into manageable chunks using techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, where you study for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break. This can help maintain focus over longer periods and reduce burnout.
Marie Longpré-Boisvert
2
Answers
Updated
Marie’s Answer
Hi Ellie,
I have worked in pediatric oncology when I started my career. Pediatric oncology is super complicated so you need to be good with medication. When I was studying, I worked behind the counter at a local pharmacy. This student job was super helpful to learn all drugs and ask questions to a pharmacist. Be curious and ask a lot of questions ! Good luck, it is a great choice.
I have worked in pediatric oncology when I started my career. Pediatric oncology is super complicated so you need to be good with medication. When I was studying, I worked behind the counter at a local pharmacy. This student job was super helpful to learn all drugs and ask questions to a pharmacist. Be curious and ask a lot of questions ! Good luck, it is a great choice.
Charnelle Saint-laurent
Observer analyst
70
Answers
Huntington Station, New York
Updated
Charnelle’s Answer
Hello,
Nursing is a great field to get into and I’m sure you’ll become an amazing nurse. So advice I have for nursing students are group studying is key as well as. Time on your own. Form a study group and you’ll be just fine. Also have a decent knowledge of the periodic table your first year. Let me know what school you’re going to best of luck I’m rooting for you!
CSL
Nursing is a great field to get into and I’m sure you’ll become an amazing nurse. So advice I have for nursing students are group studying is key as well as. Time on your own. Form a study group and you’ll be just fine. Also have a decent knowledge of the periodic table your first year. Let me know what school you’re going to best of luck I’m rooting for you!
CSL