Afraid

I am just starting out on the road to becoming an LPN (which has been my dream since I was a kid) and I'm so excited! But I'm also terrified. I'm scared I won't be smart enough or be able to remember anything or I'll look stupid performing my skills. I'm scared that with 3 kids and working part time that I won't get enough study time. I'm afraid that I don't know how to study properly. I'm trying not to panic but it's really hard not to. I need some inspiring and motivational words...

Hello there! I am in my 8th month of the LPN program- I graduate in July and plan on going right back into an RN program ASAP. I won't lie, it is scary at first but know that you will find your groove and as long as you read the chapters and listen to instructor, (listening is key- not sure if you've seen all the funnies out there about nursing school but the one about "the instructor and the book are both correct even if they disagree" is completely true!) listen to your instructor! They will tell you when you should follow the book or their words.

I made my spare bedroom into a study room and family knows that when I'm in there, they don't bother me. I try to carve out time to do family things- but know that you may have those days where you are completely swamped with homework and studying- do you have someone that can help out with the kiddos? Support is key! You will need it!

We all look stupid when we do our skills for the first time, we feel insecure because it is our first time, well most of us- you may find some people who already work in the field- just trust that you WILL get the hang of it- anytime you are offered extra practice- take it!!! Don't take time for granted.... I didn't start feeling"ok" with skills until I was performing them on real patients- everyone is different-

At first it may feel like everyone is in competition to be the best at everything- you will see soon enough that we are all knocked down to size with one thing or another- the key is to LISTEN and do exactly as your instructor tells you! They have been there and know the "real world" of nursing.

Stay away from gossip- whether it be about other students or your classroom instructors or clinical instructor– STAY AWAY FROM THE GOSSIP....

If you can, find a partner- or a study group- eventually you all learn it is best to stick together- at least a few of you will.

NEVER COMPLAIN... There is always a reason for why and how you are doing something- remember, the instructors have seen "real world"

Believe in yourself, you may have to revisit why you decided to become a nurse in the first place... Revisit it often and trust in it!!! You will need that motivation at some point..

Remember we were all 4.0 students when we entered the program, that's how we got accepted.... Now, let that go.... Do your best.... But don't kick yourself when you can't maintain a 4.0... No one said Nursing school is easy- but there are tons of nurses out there so you know it is doable- you just have to commit- dig your heels in and ride the ride!

When you get to the other side you will be stronger, smarter, and more cynical than you ever thought you could be!

Good luck- we are all rooting for you!

K

I'm also starting LPN classes in a week I also nervous and have 4 kids the person above really helped...I hope I can keep up

Its definitely a bit overwhelming at first, and a constant sacrifice, just try to find a balance and keep extremely organized! You will jump right in and it will be nonstop literally for the entire year- its a challenge, but such a rewarding experience- good luck!

I am just finishing up my first quarter..had two finals & one to go. I was scared to death as well..still am. Every hour is jammed packed esp. If you work and have kids, but like what one poster said, get a study group of a few..yes! Stay away from the gossip. Keep our professionalism always. Instructors know the students who are complainers ! Stay organized. Ask for help when needed. Good luck!