How to survive nursing school and keep my sanity!

[tonithetiger77]

I am 38 years old, work full time in an emergency room as an emt, have 6 kids, and a husband who is a firefighter. Our schedules are hectic and about to get even more hectic. I am starting my second set of clinical in sept. and now having little ones who are starting school also. I work nights so I am about to have to flip from night shift to waking up early mornings during the week. I have managed to keep my grades up so far and must as I receive scholarships to pay for school. I am just wondering, can I keep all of this up, while keeping my kids on a schedule and be able to maintain my sanity?!?! I already feel like an emotional wreck... did I mention I also have had to deal with having a breast biopsy, a partial mastectomy, an evil teenage girl, and my oldest daughter having a miscarriage all this past semester?!?! Help!!!!!

[SusanM.]

hello :)

first of all let me say that you are great !!

there is so much you have to handle each and every day.

i was doubting myself about making it through nursing school with only one child, but i see that there are many people like you who are more busy.

but back to your question, yes you can do it . if your mind is set right you will be able to manage it. maybe cut down on your hours and you should be fine.

[AspiringNurseMW]

Girl you are a trooper!!

Main thing: get organized. Really organized to the point of it being a bit ridiculous. Write out where you will be at what time and write out exactly when you will be studying. Write out chores for each and everyone of your children and your husband. Have a personal planner for school, and a calendar in a visible place like on the fridge with all the going-on's so everyone is on the same page. Perhaps you can find a way to include your kids in your studying, like having them quiz you or practice skills on them when possible.

But then again, you should take my advice with a grain of salt, I have 2 kids under 5, my husband works nights, I work, but from home, and I don't start nursing classes for another 3 weeks.

Remember to take some time for YOU, and take some time just to be with your family (this needs to be planned too!).