My little piece of advice to working parents/nursing students

[cherrock]

I have been seeing this question a lot so here's my little piece of advice:

I am a mother to a 16 month old, and I will be graduating in December from an ADN program. I worked full time midnights the first semester (went to class/clinical after work), then full time afternoons (2-10) the second semester (went to class/clinical before work). The 3rd semester I worked part time day shift (3 days a week)- this is when the long day clinicals started. In my program clinicals are usually 7-3 2 or 3 days a week and then class 9-2 the other 2 or 3 days, so I worked on the 3 days I didn't have class. I think it is best to work the days you are off school, this by far has been the least stressful and most productive for me.

Sleeping or eating were not a priority for me, sometimes I made the choice between sleeping and eating, sleeping usually won. Studying/ school/ homework, my daughter and my husband were my priorities. Granted, there were some days I didn't even see my daughter, but that was few and far between. It has been overwhelming and difficult at times, but hey world, look at me now! And regardless of what some people may say about keeping a neat house during nursing school, my house still stayed clean. Just stay organized, stay positive, do a little each day and don't get behind.

It is doable with kids though, just have a strong support system, whoever it is. Good luck to you all!

[Jill1215]

Thank you for the uplifting message. We hear so much about how difficult it is it's refreshing to read an uplifting message. It sounds like you found what worked for you and did not let anything stop you. My hat is off to you!

Good job on you accomplishments and good luck in whatever you decide to do.

Jill