Anyone have anything positive to say about nursing school?

[AllThingsPink]

Besides the outcome at the end; becoming an RN, is there anything positive you've experienced throughout nursing school? I've read so many negative things (and for a person starting her first semester Tuesday, it's not always a good thing to read all of the negative things, though some are reality and help prepare and know what to expect).

So what are some things you liked/loved about nursing school? Anything?!? LOL

[darrell]

Nursing school was an awesome experience. I went in at about 47 or so and thought I was pretty darn good with the ole' academic front! I came out a bit humbled perhaps, but with a strong sense of accomplishment. My worldview was significantly altered and I opened a couple of unexpected personal frontiers. Despite the challenges, I'd do it again.

D

[Purple_Scrubs, BSN, RN]

When I was actually in the moment of nursing school, I had very little positive to say, and at one point actually considered quitting my accelerated BSN program and trying to transfer to the local ADN program.

Now, looking back, it was those challenges that I complained about that made me the nurse I am today. I made some great friends, many of whom I still keep in touch with today. I have many fond memories of that time of my life. I can now look back fondly and even a little longingly at nursing school. Once you get some distance from it, you may have a completely different perspective.

[johnnybravo8802]

I am going to give you my opinion-nursing school doesn't even begin to prepare you for the real world. It's a breeze compared to the real thing. I was pretty ticked when I got out and realized how little I really knew-when they throw you in feet first and you're realizing that you know very little after 6 yrs. of school, it's a little bit scary!!!!!:uhoh3: In my experience, most places don't want to take the proper time to train you. You have to remember, hospitals are a business and making money is the name of the game. When a business is training you, they are spending money and not making it and they don't have time for much of that-you're seen as a big boat anchor that's dragging them down until you're on your own. The faster you hit the floor running, the better it is for them financially-it's a blunt way of putting it but the truth-SORRY if this is not what you wanted to hear. I can remember praying that I didn't kill someone before I learned what I was doing. In all honesty, I think nursing schools should be more honest about how it is in the real world-being under someone else's license is the easiest times you'll have in the medical profession. I really disliked the BS of the profession-If you could just be a nurse and do your job, it would be ok but it's never like that-there's more BS than nursing-I hate politics!!!!!!:devil:

[Brit1114]

Although there are negatives there really are some positives to be seen. You do make some pretty amazing lifelong friends. You all are going through pretty much the same thing and it's always nice to know you have people who understand doing it with you. You really do learn ALOT about yourself and who you are through the process!

[caliotter3]

Nursing school is nice when it is behind you and you are a nurse.

[Blove86]

I am in my final semester of nursing school.................UMmmmmmmm when I get my RN and start working I shall look for this post and respond LOL

[PHnurse26]

Even though most students talk about having bad experiences at nursing schools, there are certainly some positive experiences too that we should keep in mind. As a student you will find that many of your classmates are having the same anxieties and fears as yourself. if you are lucky some of these students will become your friends....I mean friends for life. Your classmates/students often are and will remian a great support system/resource for you throughout your schooling. They'll give you the courage,strength and the motivation you will need on a daily basis. A lot of what you might experience as a nursing student also depends on YOU and who you are as a person, or how you deal with pressure, stress, and negativity in general.

In every school you will find at least a few students/mentors/faculty members who like to serve students mainly by being there for them and being a resource. The key is to stay connected by making strong/positive bonds with your fellow students and faculty members. Ask questions, share your thoughts/feelings and get support as much as you can. If you have the determination and the passion to be a nurse I am sure you will be fine at any school. Always remember your perseverance counts a lot as well.

No matter where we are in life we often come across stressful situations, its how we cope with that stress that defines us as people. Sadly, it will be sometime before the nursing school environment changes for the best...in the meanwhile you can do your part by being an active part of your student community and by mingling with teachers/staff who are supportive and nurturing. All along keep your eyes and mind focused on the "Bigger Goal" (to become a good nurse) and make active efforts in breaking the cycle of negativity thats rampant in nursing schools.

Good Luck.....!!:)

[CBsMommy]

I'm only a week and a half into school and so far, so good! They have hit us really hard with assignments, tests and clinical skills already but if you are well prepared, have all of your documentation, etc., you will do just fine. I find the people in my class are struggling because they haven't read everything they needed to or studied on a particular skill that they should have known that we would be checked off on. If you follow the syllabus, write down the assignments and practice, it's actually really fun. And don't be afraid to try new things! We are all there to learn.

[reginahayes]

Nursing school? My that was a long time ago! I enjoyed it. My classmates were great but my instructors were fantastic. I learned alot, most importantly to be prepared, for anything. Secondly, I was very good at it. It was natural to me and I knew where I belonged. Being able to explore different venues, to go behind the "Authorized Personnel Only" sign was exciting. 26 years later and I'm still learning, still growing and exploring. I'llalways remember putting on my cap for the first time and my pinning ceremony.

[CathLabNursePA]

The outcome is possibly the best thing about school. I would have to say the changes you go through both personally and professionally are a great benefit in nursing school. The instructors seem harsh and inhumane at times, but they want to push you to become a better person. It is and should be an interactive experience. Apply yourself and look at how much you grow.

[9livesRN, BSN, RN]

Nursing school is where i learned

to bow,

to be humble,

to be kind,

to take constructive criticism and work with it,

to stretch my budget,

to drink caffeine,

to respect others opinions

to multi task

to be able to expand my focus

to look forward to learn

to wake up cold, and hungry and take on a 19.50 hour per day battle, just to repeat it every single day of my life for 2 years...

[Nursingstudent2188]

There are so many things that have happened this first year that helped me realize that I absolutely LOVE nursing. I had a patient tell me that she thought I was going to be a great nurse. (Made my year, really). I've met so many new friends, and experienced so many new things. I love learning about all the medical stuff, interacting with patients. Really, now that I think about it..this whole nursing school thing...it's not that bad. :)