Back to nursing school

carolinapooh, BSN, RN · Aug 16, 2009

Never mind what they think - this is YOUR chance. Take it as another opportunity to catch up on things you missed the first time (I can't tell you how many times I do wish I could go back to school and redo X or Y or see something again). Remember you'll possibly be treated as though you don't know some things - just accept this and be grateful for the opportunities for extra practice. Even if someone (instructor, another student) is showing you how to do something, don't argue with them - watch their technique and listen to their explanations because you may (and probably will) pick up on some tips for improving your own practices. If you are the one who can help someone else, be the team player and do it - and if you're asked why you know, tell the truth - "I had some problems the first time I went through school, but I've been given a second chance".

If the practical stuff is your strong suit, offer to barter with someone who has stronger academic skills - "I'll help you with A if you can help me with B". There are lots of people who can do the bookwork and struggle with the clinical aspect.

Obviously your school saw something in you that prompted them to give you a second chance - so use it wisely. I gather that this doesn't happen too often.

Good luck to you - keep your chin up and you can do this this time!

lunden · Aug 16, 2009

I've been given a 2nd chance myself. I was n the program in 2002 and failed by 2 pts. I'm starting again for aug.2009. Basically I'm going n with an open mind willing 2 learn everything I can.

Sniper RN · Aug 16, 2009

I wouldn't tell anyone that it was my second time. Just go in and act like them, they shouldnt find out unless you say something.

sneakymom2011 · Aug 16, 2009

There's at least 2 other people (besides me) who are doing a "re-do".

Failed a class by 21 pts. Could have gotten back into the program (they allow you a second chance) BUT I may have had to wait longer than the year that I'd already waited. So I'm starting fresh in a new program. I feel pretty good b/c there isn't anything that I haven't already seen (execpt for Phlebotomy) the first go-around. And the one skill I haven't seen can't be that bad.

I just look at it as a second chance to do what I want to do. And I already feel better about lecture (I have issues with NCLEX questions) because they teach things differently at this new school.

brokenroads27 · Aug 16, 2009

I agree about the NCLEX questions. We had a practice test at the end of the semester to begin preparing for the real one and I failed by a lot. I can't seem to eliminate answers when all 4 of them are correct! Critical thinking is hard.

sneakymom2011 · Aug 16, 2009

We have paid for this computer software program (online) that school wants us to use. We're supposed to spend 20 or so minutes a day on it- so I started a few days ago just because I had time. It is kind of helping, it breaks down how the questions are written (there's 4 basic types) and how to go about answering them (use your nursing knowledge and go with what you know).

I guess it's helpful. We don't (at least I don't think so) get hurt if we don't use the software. And I can see it being hard to get to it when there is just SO MUCH else that needs to be done. But, I'm paying for it, so I'll try to use it when I can.

mstacyi · Aug 17, 2009

Some times you are gonna have to lose. There is nothing wrong with repeating a course. There could had been a million reason why you didn't passed the first time. So dont hold this against yourself. And if others wonder why you know more than them, it could be because you just study more. they dont have to know unless you tell them. Plus, I dont think that students are gonna care that you are repeating this class. I find myself talking more to thoes student who had to repeat cause they know what is coming or what to study for on an exam. And of course, I dont think the instructors will say anything.

good luck.