Published
I read in amazement all of the posts from the students who were just admitted to nursing school, and it is so hard for me to believe that was me a year ago. I graduate in December, and it blows my mind how far I have come in 12 months!
So as all of these new students are starting school in the coming weeks, those of us who have been down this road can offer some advice. PLEASE ADD TO MY LIST BELOW!
Here is what I would have told myself one year ago...
1) Realize you are going to need to give some things up. Your house won't be as clean, you won't sleep as much, and you never feel like you have enough time to study
2) This crazy time in your life only lasts for a short period of time
3) Do not get behind
4) Only reading and making flash cards isn't going to cut it - need to study different ways
5) Try to understand the big picture... for example... Don't just learn about Diabetes, COMPREHEND how it effects each organ system, the vessels, the vital signs etc.
6) Invest in a GREAT pair of shoes
7) Invest in a decent stethoscope. You do not need top of the line, but moderately priced
8) Take advantage of every open lab - practice your skills at every opportunity
9) Be outgoing at clinicals! If you stand like a wallflower they will treat you like a wall flower. If you are eager, that will make an impression.
10) Take time for you!! Even if it is just an hour to read a non-school book or watch 30 minutes of trash TV