1 answer
Kylie
Student
Cedar Falls, Iowa
1
Question
Updated
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WHAT IS THE HARDEST PART OF NURSING SCHOOL?
What was the hardest part of nursing school? What study tool saved you or feel like was most beneficial?
i am about to start nursing school and just hear how hard it is! please share a positive story if you a have one!
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1 answer
Curtis Wilson
Director for Student Success
6
Answers
Concord, North Carolina
Updated
Curtis’s Answer
I have never been a nursing student, but I work at a college that largely focuses on nursing education. Below are a few areas where I have heard students express challenges:
-Depending on the structure of the nursing program, there is often not an "easing in" period. You may start challenging courses right away. The classes also move very quickly.
-Some of the general education classes you have to take with your nursing classes may be a challenge (i.e., Anatomy & Physiology).
-Nursing courses require A LOT of dedication and excellent time management skills. You will have to balance your general education classes, nursing coursework, and clinical rotations with your personal life. Some nursing programs request that you only work part-time (or not at all) which may cause some temporary financial stress.
With all that said, most nursing students are successful because there are so many resources available to assist. I recommend building strong relationships with your faculty, academic advisors, success coaches (if you have them), and peer tutors. It is hard to finish nursing school without support, so the more people you have on your team, the better. Also, have conversations with your family and friends before starting the program. Let them know that you will be busier than normal and may need to devote a bit more time to your education. Let them know how they can support you. Next, do not forget about self-care. Regardless of how busy you get, dedicate a few hours each week to tuning out of school and focusing on something fun to de-stress (i.e. movies, games, socializing, etc.). Burn out is real, so you do not want to encounter that while you're in your program. Lastly, remember your Why. When school gets really tough, remember why you want to be a nurse and use that as motivation to push forward.
-Depending on the structure of the nursing program, there is often not an "easing in" period. You may start challenging courses right away. The classes also move very quickly.
-Some of the general education classes you have to take with your nursing classes may be a challenge (i.e., Anatomy & Physiology).
-Nursing courses require A LOT of dedication and excellent time management skills. You will have to balance your general education classes, nursing coursework, and clinical rotations with your personal life. Some nursing programs request that you only work part-time (or not at all) which may cause some temporary financial stress.
With all that said, most nursing students are successful because there are so many resources available to assist. I recommend building strong relationships with your faculty, academic advisors, success coaches (if you have them), and peer tutors. It is hard to finish nursing school without support, so the more people you have on your team, the better. Also, have conversations with your family and friends before starting the program. Let them know that you will be busier than normal and may need to devote a bit more time to your education. Let them know how they can support you. Next, do not forget about self-care. Regardless of how busy you get, dedicate a few hours each week to tuning out of school and focusing on something fun to de-stress (i.e. movies, games, socializing, etc.). Burn out is real, so you do not want to encounter that while you're in your program. Lastly, remember your Why. When school gets really tough, remember why you want to be a nurse and use that as motivation to push forward.