Bombed test!

[Yayamaya]

I just recently began an ADN program and am feeling so disheartened after doing poorly (78%) on the first Pharmacology exam. An average of 77% is a C. I have never done so bad and am reconsidering if I have chosen the right career path.

Is it normal to score badly on the first few exams and still do well and succeed??

I suppose I just need to hear some stories of reassurance as this forum is so comforting!!!

[NooNieNursie]

I just recently began an ADN program and am feeling so disheartened after doing poorly (78%) on the first Pharmacology exam. An average of 77% is a C. I have never done so bad and am reconsidering if I have chosen the right career path.

Is it normal to score badly on the first few exams and still do well and succeed??

I suppose I just need to hear some stories of reassurance as this forum is so comforting!!!

Everyone does poorly on an exam from time to time. Take this as an indication that you did not prepare sufficiently OR that you need to modify your study style. Usually when I do poorly on an exam (I am a good student and it is rare for me but happened a few times) I can think of at least a few reasons why my performance was sub par. Usually, those reasons can be modified: studying more, but more importantly studying more efficiently. Setting set time for leisure actually improves studying because this more clearly differentiates study time from other time (and makes it hard to jerk around during studying).

Finally and perhaps most importantly, in nursing school ya just gotta really skim down your old activities. Working less to not at all is a good start (living on loans and your parents/S.O. helps with that). Not hanging out as much also is necessary.

For these two years, you're in a sort of emotional and intellectual boot camp. Consider it a challenge, treat it with respect and focus, and you will do well.

[justme1972]

On our first exam, alot of people did very, very poorly. You just have to get used to the format.