Feeling Discouraged

pmabraham, BSN, RN · Feb 15, 2014

Good day:

Some thoughts to consider... most prerequisites -- even the hard core sciences -- are taken by students going to different fields... some nursing, some ultrasound, some deeper sciences, and so on. As you look around you in class, take note your goal is not to compete with them (they have their own goals, dreams, etc.) but to compete with yourself.

Everyone learns differently. Does your school have a learning center,a adviser, or such to help you learn your learning style? Have you tried to isolate what removes your focus? I.e. social media, trying to study with too many people around, etc.? Does the "staying focused" apply to everything or just somethings? I.e. attention deficit disorder. If ADD, then check with your school for what options they have for helping you with a learning disability. Ask for help, it's ok; you are not alone.

Thank you.

akulahawkRN, ADN, RN, EMT-P · Feb 15, 2014

Everyone does learn differently. I suggest you use and abuse your school's testing and assessment center to find out if you have a learning "disability" because once you know what's going on, you may be able to get assistance in learning how you learn best. Once you know how you learn best, you should find things a whole lot easier.

RN_Loading1 · Feb 15, 2014

I don't think I have a learning disorder, but I do think that I should really understand exactly what my learning style is. Knowing my learning style is something that I never worried about because up until this semester, I've been doing pretty good. But I do think that social media plays a part in me being so distracted.

ixchel · Feb 15, 2014

Everyone does learn differently. I suggest you use and abuse your school's testing and assessment center to find out if you have a learning "disability" because once you know what's going on you may be able to get assistance in learning how you learn best. Once you know how you learn best, you should find things a whole lot easier.[/quote']
I agree with this very much. I know you feel you don't have a learning disability, but what if they have tools to help you succeed without it feeling quite as much of a chore? Tapping into your learning style and struggles might be the only thing you need to make you an A student without feeling like you're so far behind. You can do this!

pmabraham, BSN, RN · Feb 15, 2014

Good day:

"But I do think that social media plays a part in me being so distracted."

Then remove it from all of your devices until you are at a comfortable place to slowly put your feet back in. As shared, do go to the learning center to find out your learning style. I know for each class I have to use different techniques to do well.

Thank you.

noshee · Feb 16, 2014

hi new to site is there any science in lpn enterance test at eastern boces ny

plz

RN_Loading1 · Feb 16, 2014

Thank You everyone for the advice and encouragement !

NorthwestCT · Feb 16, 2014

Just one quick thing about feeling like you are the only person in the class who does not understand what is going on. If I didn't have the highest grades in my chemistry, microbio, and A&P classes, I was at least top 2 or 3. However, I left every class completely confused, feeling like I was the only person who did not understand what was being taught. Those are difficult subjects, and they require a ton of work outside of class to actually understand. So, take it from the kid sitting up front who you would probably think understands everything; I have just as little of a clue of what is going on as you. Again, science is hard, and it is probably impossible for 99% of us to pick up the information on the first go around. We need the discipline to study on our own. That is really what it is all about; being willing to spend a butt load of time alone, buried in your books, figuring stuff out.

jetergirl20 · Feb 17, 2014

I know EXACTLY how you feel! I just always thought that I was being lazy or not living up to my potential. Don't get me wrong, part of that was true... But it took my dad setting an appointment for me to talk to my Dr about it. Turns out I have ADD! Looking back, it makes so much sense! I'm not saying that you have it too, but it wouldn't hurt to talk to your Dr just in case. Once I found out that I am ADD, I was able to start working on it on my own. I am not on any meds right now and I have been passing all my classes and actually made A's in 3 classes last semester. Not normal for me! Lol I always knew that I was capable of making GOOD grades, and I used to get so down and depressed with myself when I got C after C....fail after fail....dropped course after dropped course. I guess it just took me finding out that it was not JUST because I couldn't seem to get myself together. I DO, however, plan on getting on some meds for when I get accepted in to nursing school. GOOD LUCK! Don't give up!

yayarn · Feb 17, 2014

I felt the same way as you did. Everyone else seemed always ahead of me especially in Mirco, and it was because I wouldn't put enough time into my work. Nowadays its really hard to concentrate and get something done with the advances in technology and such. Like TV, the internet, social media, friends. Its a lot to ignore when you have to get work and studying done, but you have to do it. Manage your time and reward yourself. Tell yourself and commit to it. If I study for this many hours and really concentrate, I can watch the walking dead tonight. Or if i finish my class work for today, I will spend an hour on Facebook. Erasing unwanted apps from your smart phone also helps. I know its tough, but just think of the rewards that come with it. Write yourself motivational quotes and stick them in the restroom, bedroom, or wherever you will see them the most. You can do it!

kjennie · Feb 18, 2014

Hi! I just started nursing school and I sound a lot like you do. I know I am smart and I make good grades but I wait until the last minute to study or get help and I always feel behind and short on time.

One of my professors told us to take this online test to learn our learning style, and it helps you know how to better study.

http://www.vark-learn.com/english/page.asp?p=questionnaire

Hang in there, you'll be just fine!