COMPASS test terror!

Do-over, ASN, RN · Jan 7, 2010

When I tank the math portion,

First, try thinking positive. There are plenty of things to stress out about in school, no need to borrow trouble so early in the game. Also, I don't really think it is possible to study for the Compass. It is simply an assessment tool, as far as I know. (I didn't have to take it, but had to do something similar at another CC)

I don't think they will "make" you take any remedial math classes (should the test indicate), but it might not be a bad idea if you are not comfortable with math. Set yourself up for success.

The med math class is basic algebra, conversions, etc. Also, math is incorporated into each semester's clinical rotations and is included in a lot of the instructor's exams. So, while the nursing math isn't terribly difficult, it is important to get very comfortable with it.

Community colleges are designed to help all students succeed - resources are in place - take advantage of the math tutors, etc. The math tutor at Western is cool, stop in and see him or someone at one of the other campuses.

Cyn2school · Jan 7, 2010

Math has changed a lot since you last took it. I went back for math after a similar absence.

First thing to change is your attitude, "I am a math moron and didn't even make it through algerba in high school (almost 20 yrs ago, no less!). I am one of those people that just don't get it and can't think math."

DITCH THE CANT ATTITUDE!

Replace with can do and as many "I'm nearly 20 years older and my brain has matured to the point where I can do this!!!" Find a developmental or pre algebra program @ a jr college and get it done. Start at the bottom and work your way up!

I did it and ended up completing Finite math and Inferential statistics, upper division university level math classes.I have my BA in Psychology-Marketing and started Nursing School yesterday, dont tell anyone, I turned 53 on Monday.

NoviceRN10 · Jan 7, 2010

I did the COMPASS assessment at Macomb and ended up with only 11% in math. I had done no prep whatsoever and couldn't have told you what an integer was if you paid me! Thankfully it didn't matter as far as the nursing program there, which requires no math classes. If you are worried I would go get yourself a 6th grade math workbook and practice!

mmh2 · Jan 7, 2010

Thanks to all for the advice, support and encouragement! I needed that and a kick in the pants too! My husband has been saying all of the same things! I will definately brush up on my math skills. Have asked my husband who is a teacher to get me some worksheets. LOL I will peel myself off of the ceiling, take a deep breath and have a better attitude. I am so glad I found this site! Everyone has been so nice and helpful!

cheska_rn, ASN, RN · Jan 8, 2010

Hey there!

I took the compass test at WCCCD about 3 years ago. I don't remember much of it (LOL), but I do know that I did not do well in the math portion (I had struggled all through high school, and graduated only having completed Pre-Alg!!). The school recommended I take Pre-Alg, which I did, and successfully passed with an 'A'. I definitely attribute it to having 'matured', and have found the material has stuck w/me a lot better.

I did not take any other math courses except for the Med Math for the nursing program. The Med Math course (with a good instructor) is not hard at all. I had a phenom instructor who made it so easy!!!

I am starting the nursing program on Jan 19th (yay!!), so you can definitely get in, even if you have a less than stellar math history. Good luck!!

mmh2 · Jan 8, 2010

Hey cheska rn2be- Thanks for the support! So funny bc my hs math experience is very similar so it was comforting to learn that the COMPASS was unremarkable. I too will probably need a pre alg class and that would actually (much as I hate to admit) be a good thing. I was so worried that I would have to take numerous math classes, struggle and become discouraged. I'll just make sure that it is my only class that semester. LOL Good luck in school!!