Help! Having to take COMPASS Math placement test

[S. Braden]

HELP! I am 43 and have decided to go back to school to be an RN. I am enrolled at the local community college. To my horror, they want me to take the COMPASS math placement test. I have all my english/writing courses out of the way from 20+ years ago but before I can take the pre-req. Math 109 and my bioscience courses, I have to take this test. I am absolutely terrified. I graduated high school without passing Algebra 1...I do not know the first thing about Algebra, geometry, etc. I have been a medical transcriptionst for 12 years plus had hands-on experience (unfortunately) caring for my first child who was terminally ill so I have placed feeding tubes, given injections, taken care of a central line, you name it so the fact that this math thing could keep me from becoming an RN is giving me an ulcer. Can someone please give me some advice on what I can do to learn this math (while working full-time) so I can pass the COMPASS test and eventually, math 109!!!! Thank you in adavance!

[Iridescent Orchid, CNA, LPN]

I'm living proof to say you'll do just fine! I had to retake the entire COMPASS before I began my pre-reqs, and I had been out of school for a little over 5 years when I had to. I had an anxiety about the COMPASS that was insane. ESPECIALLY the Mathematics portion. I'll go ahead and tell you, I suck at math. I made F's in math. I took remedial math in high school, and still barely got through it. I passed the math portion with a significant score...more significant that I felt I was going to do! It's a lot of basics for the most part. Take your time. They give you plenty of time to relax and stare at the equation or word problem. There were some I'd take up to 5 minute on, just staring, until I figured out what the most logical answer MIGHT be. I think that paid off. Time is on your side! You'll do just fine! Good luck! :)

[sriffey]

thanks everyone i am just ready to see advisor and see where i am and get started!!!!!

[Nurse2b7337]

I took the Compass exam from being out of school for 15 years. I didn't know the answers and guessed. I eneded up having to take Math 97 and 98. I was upset at first because none of those classes counted as credits but still had to be paid for. I finally will be taking College level Math this semester and glad I had the remedial Math. Don't worry or stress do your best you'll be fine. Good luck to you!