Is there a point in celebrating holidays in nursing school?

birdinflight · Nov 27, 2011

Hi there.

I'm currently in nursing school and have a lot coming up with the end of semester exams and finals, as I'm sure you do, too.

I've been on Thanksgiving break that started this past Wednesday, and I will tell you, I have been taking complete advantage of it. I haven't done a single thing for nursing school this week. Tonight I'm going to finish up any homework for Monday so that I don't have to stress about it Sunday night, but other than that, I've taken a break from school.

I may not be getting a 4.0 anymore because I'm not devoting every waking moment to school, but I'm at least keeping myself somewhat sane, too.

I'm also going to be taking at least an afternoon to go gift shopping with my husband.

So I say... celebrate!! It will renew and energize you! As long as you don't make your holiday too complicated or stressful. This year, my husband and I are scaling Christmas waaaay back, financially and time-wise because I'm in school.

School is still the priority. But, we all need to take mini-breaks and have a little family time, too.

allnurses Guide · Nov 27, 2011

You need the time off and the mental break. I still have 20+ papers to grade, etc. I am enjoying my family and my holiday; you work (study) to live, not live to work. :hug:

Glutton-4-Trauma, BSN, RN · Nov 27, 2011

I've got two theory exams, a skills final and a theory final all back to back within the next few weeks, which means I should've spent the majority of TG break studying and preparing. But I didn't. I refuse to let school work come in between me spending time with my family during the holidays. I'll work it out. There may be lots of late nights and early mornings involved, but I'll "get er done". With that being said, the answer to your question is yes, there is a point in celebrating holidays while in nursing school.

NurseLoveJoy88, ASN, RN · Nov 27, 2011

Its so nice to read all these responses. Atleast I know I'm not the only one enjoying my Thanksgiving break.

OAN: Totally petrified of failing my exam I have tomorrow. It is not for nursing school but for a RN internship that starts in February. Its 50 questions and I need an 80 to pass and be considered for an interview. Please wish me luck and pray that I pass :)

allnurses Guide · Nov 28, 2011

It has lead to a lot of cramming once family leaves, but I have always celebrated holidays throughout nursing school.. Graduating in 11 days and going to be studying for NCLEX - I will take time off of studying for Christmas and New Years though, most definitely. Family and rest are just as important as school.

SC APRN, DNP, APRN, NP · Nov 28, 2011

I'm off to take my test, after studying most of the weekend I feel very prepared and relaxed. My classes Facebook page is lighting up with people that crammed all night because they took the weekend off. I'm so glad I avoided that stress.

I did finish my shopping, got my hair done, did some housework, went to the ballet and did something nice for myself. I just took advantage of every free minute I had, because I work full-time, and I have military weekends, so catch up time, is the best way for me to recharge.

I promise during my six week break I will relax!!!

NurseLoveJoy88, ASN, RN · Nov 28, 2011

I passed my prehire exam.... Yay

sandyfeet · Nov 28, 2011

I took 2 days off to celebrate, and it totally recharged me. Now I have the energy to put my head down and barrel through until the final! If I hadn't had the break I probably would have fizzled out by now. Take a little time, it definitely helps!

NurseLoveJoy88, ASN, RN · Nov 28, 2011

Looking forward to being done. Have my final exam next week.

pockunit, ADN, RN · Nov 29, 2011

You can't take one day off to spend it with your family? Your time management skills may be lacking.