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Discussion

Do I have what it takes?

Hi Everyone,

I have been going back and forth with myself about this, so I wanted some "outside" feedback. I do not LOVE math or science. I tend to be a B+/A- student in those areas, and I've always seen those classes as a means to an end rather than a real enjoyment themselves. I had to struggle to learn to deal with some of the technology in the ICU, too. I learned it proficiently, but it did not come naturally.

My strengths are that I have GREAT bedside manner, I'm organized, very conscientious, and I perservere through hard times. But I did not enjoy nursing school -- I would have rather been reading about history or theology or sociology. I do like being a nurse most of the time though.

I am almost to my one year in the ICU mark (a neuro ICU). From what I can tell, my experience is probably "intermediate" to other ICU's as far as experience with variety -- I've seen and done a lot, but not as much as many others.

I don't think I'd like school very much, but I would work hard towards the goal and feel a great sense of accomplishment upon completion. I would enjoy the job moderately -- as much as I enjoy nursing now, if not more (good days and bad days...but if I didn't have to work 40hrs a week I wouldn't). I would be doing CRNA school as a great goal for myself and as a way to provide well for my family.

Upon application my stats will be:

1 year neuro icu experience (good recommendations)

GRE (not taken yet, but I consistently test above average)

CCRN (to be taken)

ACLS

3.3 GPA

Organic Chemistry (signed up for it)

Is the fact that I'm totally indecisive reason enough to not pursue this? The three things holding me back are:

1) I would like it but not LOVE it

2) I would have to work harder than many others to understand the material

3) My ICU experience and knowledge is much less than many others I have met

Featured Replies

I am similar as far as academic strengths and weaknesses. I have one aunt who still tells me I should be a lawyer, because I read a ton and write well. Math has always been a struggle, and science too if it is math-based like chemistry. In a way I am really enjoying stretching my brain now. My mom is like me except worse in math, and she would just say that she was bad at it, not smart enough for it, etc. So I thought that too, and I'm discovering that I CAN do it. Very cool. So don't let that hold you back.

I also don't think I work a lot harder than others. I think having skills in reading and writing makes it smoother for me, because a lot of nurses can't write worth squat. Anyway, it's all hard material and even the very bright are studying like mad.

As for motivation - well, school is a bear, so you have to want this. Whether you want it enough has to be up to you.

Life is short, CRNA school is long and difficult. Find something that you LOVE. If you are going to work the rest of your life I think it is worth your while to do something that you LOVE to do 99-100% of the time. I would bet that the majority of CRNA wannabe's know that they would love the job and know that becoming a CRNA is exactly what they want. At least that is the way I feel. But, if you decide that CRNA school is what you really want, then go for it.

  • Author

haha, you two are each speaking for one side of my mind -- I can't decide between the two. Thanks so much for replying SReece, and ApaisRN. I'm glad to have some feedback. :)

WHY would you do something you already know you won't enjoy? I just withdrew from my ACNP program (right before I was to start specialty classes) so I could pursue CRNA and I couldn't be more excited.

I will admit I also hate chemistry, physics and math, but I love biology, physical assessment, etc. I hated nursing school and so did every other nurse I know, so I can't say don't do it if you won't like SCHOOL, but if you know you won't like the JOB or if you're doing it simply to feel a sense of accomplishment over something, please do yourself the favor of making it something you'll LOVE.

Best of luck!

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