I need some encouragement........

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I am in my 2nd semester towards my associates degree. I decided to go back to school right before I ended up finding out my husband was cheating one me which lead to divorce. I am 49 and suffering from peri menopause symptoms, trying to get over the emotions of the divorce, and suffering insomnia. We need a 76 or better to pass Nursing 102. My first exam I got a 77.6%. Today was my 2nd exam and from my calculations I probably got somewhere between a 70 and 74, hopefully they scale the grades. I am frustrated and feel like quitting. If I hadn't studied, then I would expect a low grade, but I studied my ass off.....and I am so frustrated. I have always wanted to be a nurse, but maybe I bite off more than I can chew at this point in my life. But considering my age its now or never. And there is the extra pressure to get my degree, since I gave up my full-time job for this and I am a single woman now trying to support herself. Has anyone else been in my shoes? I sure would love some advice. Sad in the northeast.

I'm so sorry. It sucks when all the bad crap has to happen when you're going through nursing school. It's hard enough without all that added stress.

What helps me deal with my stress is usually something's like hot bubble baths, tea, sometimes a good margarita! Try to clear an hour when you're feeling overwhelmed about nursing school to do something relaxing for a bit.

As for the divorce and menopause, I don't have any advice as I've never gone through it myself.

Specializes in Maternal Newborn.

Hi SueLaura,

I read your post and wanted to send you some cheer and support. Though I'm waiting to hear if I've been accepted into an accelerated nursing program (Samuel Merritt's ABSN program) I wanted to let you know I'm also in my 40's and returning to school. If being a nurse is your dream - you enjoy studying A/P and the body, working with people, etc. Don't give up. Taking short breaks when you are stressed and pampering yourself are a must! Going on a walk/hike, having a latte with a friend, watching your favorite show or sitcom, taking a nap, etc. can make a big difference. In regards to the lower score you think you may have received - find out what you did score and see what you can work on from there. Are you studying atleast a few hours each day for a week in advance of the test? Is your professor providing some ideas/advice on test content? How is your study environment? Do you know other current/past students in this course or that have graduated that can provide their test taking strategy/feedback?

Again, if nursing is what you want to do - don't give up! The program is intense, though once you've gotten the swing of how the program is working (and tailor your study habits) you will be more prepared and doing well. Best of luck and hang in there.

Specializes in OR.

Congratulations you made it to your second semester. That's a huge accomplishment in itself, so be proud for getting this far in spite of the issues you were facing. It's clear that your grieving a loss, and going through a major women's change at the same time. HUGE Distractions from Nursing Classes!!! Don't focus on them. It seems that you need a little help being able to focus and concentrate on your class work. I see where you said you have studied really hard, but don't quit. Make an appointment to talk with your doctor about your menopause symptoms and insomnia. They should prescribe the best treatment for you, pharmaceutical or something alternative. It's a good idea to also ask if they would refer you to a counselor who you could talk to a few time a month to vent your feelings. As far as your studies, you might be able to find someone in your class that needs a study partner. This can help keep you focused on nursing while your studying, instead of letting your thoughts get distracted on your personal issue. And don't vent to your class mates, they have their own issues and need to focus on nursing too. They might listen at first but trust me, they will not want to hear about it again. Try to distract yourself from your life issues, in exchange for all nursing material. It sucks to keep everything bottled up inside, but if you can save your grieving for a later date, DO IT. This is the time that your doing something for yourself and you have a goal to meet. Study like your life depends on it. Mentally block out all distractions possible until graduation and NCLEX is passed. Pray for encouragement, and don't let anybody throw you a pity party, not even yourself. Your better than that !!:)

To everyone who responded to my thread .......THANK YOU. I am grateful that you took the time to encourage me. I will stick with it and study harder for the next exam and hopefully I didn't do as bad as I thought on the 2nd exam. It's so hard to feel defeated, like you made the wrong choice because at the time I had a choice to go to nursing school or train on-the-job as the manager of customer service. I will try to set aside the feelings and make that appointment to see a counselor. Once again, thanks a million.

Specializes in Allergy and Immunology.

I say show your ex that you wont let him win and get in the way of your dream of becoming a NURSE! You got this, just take it one day at a time. You CAN do this!

Strange how I stumbled on this thread. I'm a nontraditional also in my second semester, having applied because my spouse cheated on me. (Small, sad world, huh?) I just wanted to let you know that you should follow your dream of being a nurse! As many others have said, take it one day at a time. Nursing school is one crazy roller coaster, but you can do this! Getting past the first hurdle (semester) is SUCH an accomplishment! Keep at it. Having said that, only you can truly know how much you can handle. Nursing school is wonderful in that you can take it slowly. Good luck and best wishes to you!

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