Almost done, but still frustrated

[PrettyLady87]

Quick background:

BS in Biology

Currently in a ABSN program

Graduate August 2013

Even though I'm almost done with my program, I feel more stressed than ever. I'm going through some tough financial hardships right now, and I feel that my peers are not completely understanding of this. Since when was it a requirement to buy all instructors gifts? I can't even afford to pay my bills!! My mom pays for everything and she gives me money for the necessities such as gas, food, and parking money. Money seems to have separated me from the majority of my cohort, especially when 90% of the "bonding" activities require it. There have been so many group assignments and partnerships that have caused strain on my perception of people just because they have formed cliques. I am a loner in my class, and I just wish these partner and group assignments would just stop already! I understand the concept behind group work because it teaches us how to collaborate with our colleagues at work, but enough is enough already!

Okay enough venting, I still have hw to do, including a late care plan >.

[sogade]

I'm sorry you feel like the loner. I don't really have any advice, persevere you are almost at the finish line and then hopefully onto employment to ease your financial worries! Good luck.

[llg, PhD, RN]

About the instructor gifts ... don't feel obligated. Many instructors are a little embarrassed by that tradition and wish it would stop. Just tell your classmates that you can't afford it and tell them you will say "thank you" to your instructors in your own way. Most instructors I know (and that includes me) would be very happy to receive a little note or e-mail (free) saying that you appreciate what they have tried to teach you. I'd much rather a student write a little note than buy me a present ... and even more, if they would write something positive on the course evaluations.

Giving gifts to instructors is a "girly thing" held over from another era. It is not characteristic of other professions and disciplines.

[LoriRNCM, ADN, ASN, RN]

Well, count me in the loner group then, because every dime I have will be paying for my nursing program. I won't have money to meet in restaurants and order pizza in someone's house for study groups. Nope, not gonna happen. I am paying my own way, w/ a mortgage and car payment and a million other bills to boot.