Advice for n00bs

CHILL OUT!

Research the various programs you are applying to VERY well before you decide which one to attend so there are no surprises. If you're in an ADN program (because I can't speak for BSN programs), expect it to be the most stressful two years of your life, and figure out coping strategies (such as extra help from family) ahead of time. Be ready to temporarily make getting through school your #1 priority, and prepare family/friends/employer for this. If you work full-time, talk to your employer about whether you can take extra time off when needed or even take a leave. Be ready for days that you will be ready to cry (or actually be crying) because, despite giving 100% effort, you fail a test or are told from your clinical instructor that it just isn't "good enough." Be prepared for days where you think you're best option is just quitting, but don't -- just stick it out and it will get better! That's my best advice because those are all the things I wish I fully understood and had done before I started the LVN-RN program I am now in. Good luck to you! :)

lvnmum I have a friend on my facebook who posts at least once a month that she doesn't know why she thought she could do it. She's always stressing out I'm going into a BSN program. I don't work, but I do have two kids who are younger. I'm up in the air about whether I will try to get work on campus or not. We could definitely use the money, but I could also use the sanity. I may just take out larger student loans so that I don't have to work.

Wait until my kids were in school full-time.

Don't give up.