3 answers
Morgan
Student
Dayton, Pennsylvania
1
Question
Asked
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How hard was the process of nursing school, and what was the most difficult part?
What was the hardest part of nursing school and what was the most difficult for you? How did you overcome this difficult part of nursing school? What advice do you have for incoming nursing students?
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3 answers
James Hernandez
Account Manager
20
Answers
Heredia, Heredia Province, Costa Rica
Updated
James’s Answer
Nursing school is tough and full of challenges, with lots of hard classes, hands-on training, and high standards. Many students feel stressed by the workload and pressure. Some of the hardest parts are juggling school, clinical work, and personal life, while also learning complex medical ideas and thinking critically.
Challenging Classes:
Nursing students need a strong science background, learning subjects like anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology, which can be tough. They also study patient care, medical terms, and ethics.
Demanding Clinical Hours:
Working in hospitals and healthcare settings is physically and emotionally tiring. Students must quickly get used to new places and handle stressful situations, using what they learned in class in real-life settings.
Time Commitment:
Nursing school takes a lot of time, often needing a full-time schedule. This can be hard for students who also work or have family duties.
High Expectations:
Nursing students are expected to do well in school and act professionally, which can be stressful.
Transition to Professional Practice:
Moving from classroom learning to real-world practice is hard, as students must build their skills and confidence quickly.
Challenging Classes:
Nursing students need a strong science background, learning subjects like anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology, which can be tough. They also study patient care, medical terms, and ethics.
Demanding Clinical Hours:
Working in hospitals and healthcare settings is physically and emotionally tiring. Students must quickly get used to new places and handle stressful situations, using what they learned in class in real-life settings.
Time Commitment:
Nursing school takes a lot of time, often needing a full-time schedule. This can be hard for students who also work or have family duties.
High Expectations:
Nursing students are expected to do well in school and act professionally, which can be stressful.
Transition to Professional Practice:
Moving from classroom learning to real-world practice is hard, as students must build their skills and confidence quickly.
Susana Appiah
MIDWIFE
98
Answers
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Updated
Susana’s Answer
Nursing school was definitely one of the hardest things I’ve ever done — but also one of the most meaningful.
Hardest Part:
For me, the most difficult part was the mental pressure. It wasn’t just about learning material — it was learning how to think like a nurse. The exams weren’t always about memorizing facts; they were about applying critical thinking in high-stress scenarios, and that took time to adjust to. I also struggled with feeling like I wasn’t doing enough, even when I was giving my all.
How I Overcame It:
I created a routine that gave structure to my week: study time, breaks, and even rest were scheduled in.
I joined a study group — we helped each other break things down and laugh through the stress.
Most importantly, I learned to ask for help — whether it was from professors, classmates, or mentors. You’re not weak for needing support. You're wise.
Advice for Incoming Nursing Students:
Don’t try to be perfect — just be consistent.
Start learning how to manage stress now. Find your coping tools: journaling, prayer, music, walks, naps — whatever keeps your cup full.
Remember your "why." Write it down and look at it on the hard days.
Celebrate the small wins. Passing a test, mastering a skill, getting through a tough shift — they all count.
Nursing school will challenge you, but it will also shape you into someone stronger, more compassionate, and more confident. You’re not alone — and you absolutely can do this.
Hardest Part:
For me, the most difficult part was the mental pressure. It wasn’t just about learning material — it was learning how to think like a nurse. The exams weren’t always about memorizing facts; they were about applying critical thinking in high-stress scenarios, and that took time to adjust to. I also struggled with feeling like I wasn’t doing enough, even when I was giving my all.
How I Overcame It:
I created a routine that gave structure to my week: study time, breaks, and even rest were scheduled in.
I joined a study group — we helped each other break things down and laugh through the stress.
Most importantly, I learned to ask for help — whether it was from professors, classmates, or mentors. You’re not weak for needing support. You're wise.
Advice for Incoming Nursing Students:
Don’t try to be perfect — just be consistent.
Start learning how to manage stress now. Find your coping tools: journaling, prayer, music, walks, naps — whatever keeps your cup full.
Remember your "why." Write it down and look at it on the hard days.
Celebrate the small wins. Passing a test, mastering a skill, getting through a tough shift — they all count.
Nursing school will challenge you, but it will also shape you into someone stronger, more compassionate, and more confident. You’re not alone — and you absolutely can do this.
Mary-Kate Uy
Nurse Practitioner
3
Answers
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Updated
Mary-Kate’s Answer
The hardest part of nursing school was figuring out a study routine that fit my schedule for studying, working, clinicals, exams, and relaxation. It took me about a semester or two to find what worked best. I usually did well when I stuck to this routine, but life sometimes got in the way.
For new nursing students, my advice is to work hard, never settle, learn from your mistakes, and enjoy the journey. Some classes will be tougher than others, so reach out for help from professors, tutors, and classmates. Also, support those who might be struggling in areas where you excel.
For new nursing students, my advice is to work hard, never settle, learn from your mistakes, and enjoy the journey. Some classes will be tougher than others, so reach out for help from professors, tutors, and classmates. Also, support those who might be struggling in areas where you excel.