finally, an encouraging evaluation

[RedRobin8]

Here I am, 2/3 of the way through my diploma program, second career, full plate with family, kids' sports, my homework, kids' homework, my job, etc., and I finally received my first substantial and helpful evaluation. I get pretty weary of reading "met goal, satisfactory, met competencies, etc." although I suspect this is the required verbage. I see these bland, neutral comments given to everyone that doesn't fail, and began to question whether I made the right decision to pursue nursing as a career. My clinical instructor, who is a tough cookie and great nurse, said I do a terrific job. She encouraged me by stating that my numeric grade (C+) did not reflect my ability in nursing, but my full plate with life and three difficult courses. I admittedly get envious of the single 20-somethings with all pre-req's behind them and all the time in the world to study one course and get A's like I used to get in high school.

Ten months to go now, and those few words of encouragement make me want to do even better.

[HyperSaurus, RN, BSN]

Sounds like you have it tough. To be fair, there are plenty of single 20-somethings with alot on their plate besides just school (trying to pay rent, working a crappy part-time job or two, ect...)

Anyways, I'm glad you got a good and useful review. I always wonder if they just say the same thing to everyone who doesn't fail.

[NSALVADORE]

I know what you mean and how you feel!! Good for you, glad you got the good feedback and hopefully that helps keep your motivation up for the last year :)

I too am finishing my 2nd year of a diploma program! I wish I had it "easy" like those students who have less on their plates. But, if we are doing great with all this on our plate, just imagine what else we can accomplish :):)

Best of luck in your last year

[RedRobin8]

"Sounds like you have it tough. To be fair, there are plenty of single 20-somethings with alot on their plate besides just school (trying to pay rent, working a crappy part-time job or two, ect...)"

Yes, you are right. Funny you mention jobs, I did quit a well paying job to have the time to go to school, and instead replaced it with...two crappy part-time jobs... Tech work in the hospital (for experience) and substitute teaching at my kids' middle school... Which means much less money to pay the bills. Hoping it remedies itself when the diploma is in hand.

[HyperSaurus, RN, BSN]

My dad did the same thing. He retired from the Marines and promptly went to nursing school while working part time as a truck unloader at Meijer and then a nurses aid. I don't envy you and I certainly didn't envy him. How much longer do you have?

[RedRobin8]

I will finish at the end of February 2011. I get to count down the months now, not years. How about you?

[HyperSaurus, RN, BSN]

December 2011. I have a year and a half.

[NSALVADORE]

May 2011 here Woo Hoo