3 answers
Dashley
Student
College Station, Texas
1
Question
Updated
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In nursing school, how do you manage to keep a balanced schedule when you have clinicals for half the days and then have multiple tests or quizzes to study for #Spring25?
I am an incoming nursing student and I’m scared about handling time management
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3 answers
Ashley Lowe
College Instructor/Clinical Coordinator
62
Answers
Minnesott Beach, NC
Updated
Ashley’s Answer
Even though I teach in a radiography program, our healthcare programs are very similar in structure and intensity, so the time-management challenges are almost identical. The biggest key is learning to plan your week before it starts. When you have clinicals several days a week and exams layered on top, you can’t wait until you “feel like” studying. Block out specific study times in your calendar just like they’re appointments, and treat them as non-negotiable. Short, focused study sessions during the week are much more effective than cramming after a long clinical day.
I also tell students to study a little every day, even on clinical days. Even 30–45 minutes of review keeps material fresh and prevents overwhelm before tests. Prioritize what’s most urgent, break large topics into smaller pieces, and prepare for exams gradually instead of all at once. It’s also important to protect sleep and build in small breaks; exhaustion makes studying take twice as long.
The first semester often feels like a shock because the pace is faster than most students are used to, but you adjust. Once you find your rhythm and system, it becomes manageable. Feeling scared about time management actually means you care, and students who plan ahead and stay consistent typically do very well.
I also tell students to study a little every day, even on clinical days. Even 30–45 minutes of review keeps material fresh and prevents overwhelm before tests. Prioritize what’s most urgent, break large topics into smaller pieces, and prepare for exams gradually instead of all at once. It’s also important to protect sleep and build in small breaks; exhaustion makes studying take twice as long.
The first semester often feels like a shock because the pace is faster than most students are used to, but you adjust. Once you find your rhythm and system, it becomes manageable. Feeling scared about time management actually means you care, and students who plan ahead and stay consistent typically do very well.
Joyce Melotz
RN
11
Answers
Omaha, Nebraska
Updated
Joyce’s Answer
As a person who went to school as a single parent, I had to weigh my options and had to look at what the school had to offer. I graduated 31 yrs ago so obviously programs have changed. I was able to do my pre reqs prior to nursing classes. That took me 2 yrs. I continued my pre reqs even with my nursing classes. So it might behoove you to look into part time schooling. I'm assuming your young so you will have plenty of time to complete your degree and still have a fulfilling career. BTW, I was 38 when I graduated.
Joyce Melotz
RN
11
Answers
Omaha, Nebraska
Updated
Joyce’s Answer
As a person who went to school as a single parent, I had to weigh my w and had to look at what the school had to offer. I graduated 31 yrs ago so obviously programs have changed. I was able to do my pre reqs prior to nursing classes. That took me 2 yrs. I continued my pre reqs even with my nursing classes. So it might behoove you to look into part time schooling. I'm assuming your young so you will have plenty of time to complete your degree and still have a fulfilling career. BTW, I was 38 when I graduated.