[MurseHopeful]

Hi all,
I am hoping to start the BSN program at UCCS either this coming fall or the following spring. Even though I haven't even been accepted, I am very nervous, because I do not know quite what to expect. Can anyone give me any tips and/or advice on how to succeed (or at least survive) in nursing school. Thank you all in advance.

MH

[hikernurse]

Don't fall behind.

Before you start school you can take practice tests from an NCLEX study book. You'd be surprised at how many you can get right before even taking nursing classes. That will help you get used to the test format.

Organize your life as best as you can before you start. Buy extra blue jeans and underwear so you don't have to do laundry as often. Seriously .

[BlueRidgeHomeRN]

Get your reading done on time, and recopy your notes every night to make studying easier and to force them into your brain.

Simplify your life-extra undies and a stocked freezer come in handy, and now is NOT the time to get a new puppy, girlfriend, or hobby.

Ask questions, and make sure you understand the answers.

Resign to the fact that early on there is a TON of memorization--but you have to know these facts to think critically later.

Laugh every day, stay positive, and vent all you need to on these forums!

Good luck!

[angelwingsamy]

buy a recorder and listen to your lectures over and over.

buy a palm pilot and use it non-stop

brush up on test taking strategies

study study study study

and of course you have to find time to have fun or you will just collapse. i have to go out with my family/friends at least once a week (fri or sat) or im just no good at school to focus.

GOOD LUCK!

[MurseHopeful]

Thanks for the tips. I knew it would be a lot of work. I have a busy home life, but I have a very supportive wife. Plus, if I do get in, school becomes my new job. I will get paid the same as now and all I have to do is go to school. Thanks again.

MH