Feeling discouraged

TheCommuter, BSN, RN · Feb 27, 2013

So basically I would like to know how do-able the nursing program is.

It depends on your previous academic preparation, study skills, and how quickly you understand new and novel information. Keep in mind that each student brings a different ability level to the table.

There are more than 3.5 million registered nurses in the United States, so obviously the nursing program has been 'doable' for millions.

classicdame, MSN, EdD · Feb 27, 2013

you are wasting energy worrying about things you cannot control. All you can do is try to make the best grades possible. Also, if you have the reputation for being an honest and cooperative student that might help if referrals are needed.

maddiem · Feb 27, 2013

The average GPA of a student accepted to nursing school is 3.4 and above. Not sure what the stats are for your school. I would talk to a counselor at your school to find out more about the average GPA for accepted students at your school. You could also retake some courses you did not so well in and bring up your GPA. This would bet be done at a community college because it would cost less. Also keep in mind that you need to do well on your admissions exam.

alihoff93 · Feb 27, 2013

Thanks guys! I will look into retaking a couple classes.

Music in My Heart · Feb 27, 2013

I don't know who's been telling you how hard is nursing school but I will say that it really wasn't that bad.

The pace was unrelenting and the stakes were very high (ours was cohort based so failure in any class meant disenrollment from the program) for each test and each class but the material wasn't that difficult.

Blindsided · Feb 27, 2013

True story. I dropped out of high school in my senior year. Later got my GED. Entered college as a "probationary student" having to take a certain amount of classes to "prove" myself. Finally could apply and was accepted into nursing school. Really struggled with three young children, very poor, working 24-32 hours a week while in school. Here I am many, many years later with my masters in nursing. Stay focused on the goal. Take one semester at a time, finish that, and press on. It was hard and it is hard, but you can do it. I want to wish you the best luck ever :)

alihoff93 · Feb 27, 2013

Thank you so much for the encouragement! It seems like anyone I tell I'm going to school for nursing tells me I'm crazy. It's nice to finally hear someone say that it is possible with determination! How long did it take you to complete the program? I am in my second year of college and I know I will be in for at least 3-4 more.

Blindsided · Feb 28, 2013

Let's see. I first got my associates degree, but it took about four years. Then I got my BS a few years later in 1982. It was not a BSN, so I had to take a couple bridge courses before I could get into the masters program. I was about 32 when I got my first degree, so kind of a late bloomer. I've had a long career, and have done lots of different nursing jobs. Currently I'm "considering" retiring and/or doing something completely different. You are just starting out, but determination is the exact word I would use to get you through. I once had a professor say to me, "how in the hell did you even get in this class!" Well, I did have to take it twice. I chose a different professor and got through it that time. That was my only double take though. Toward the end, I just had to focus on one small step at a time; pass this test, finish this project, etc. All these years later, I still remember how hard it was. Well, we need some young newcomers to take care of us boomers, so I hope you make it in. Maybe I'll look up and see your smiling face some day if I have to be in the hospital.

JustBeachyNurse, LPN · Feb 28, 2013

duplicate threads merged for continuity

alihoff93 · Feb 28, 2013

Wow that is so awesome, props to you for sticking through it! So glad I found this website its just what I needed. Its good to know that no matter what pace I take it at I will eventually get there!