How to balance school, a kid and work??

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Ok so I'm currently a CNA. I have just gotten a job as a CNA doing night shift from 11-7. I start school in August. I am going to my local community college, Malcolm X to become a RN. I'm a single mom as well but my ex helps me out with my baby. Here's my dilemma: how do you guys manage your time? Being the mom of a 1 year old and going to school and working seems like a lot of stressful work! I'm freaking out and the problem hasn't even started. My job is about an hour to an hour and a half away from my school. Think I'm taking on too much at once? I'm just trying to future my career and make a better life for me and my daughter (:/) Is there anyone who has been in the same boat? How'd you do it? Seriously need advice.

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I start in August as well, I'll be working 11-7 maybe two nights and every other weekend 7-3. So I can say how I've done it, as I'm right there with you. I have 2 kids, 10&3 and my husband and family to help. The only thing I see that could be a problem is that your job is so far away and if you'll be going from there straight to class, that will be a stretch. All I can do is give you advice that I've been given, which is to have a good support system when It comes to the baby and don't over do it when It comes to working, because you'll be studying a lot. I hope someone who's already doing it or has done it can chime in and be of better assistance. Good luck, many before us have done it.

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*cant

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Specializes in PCT, RN.

Wow, an hour and a half? The money better be worth it because that's going to kill you in gas.

It's possible, just be prepared to be very tired and very stressed. If you are determined to keep this job, I suggest recording lectures and listening to them in your car as you're driving. That'll give you 3 hours of "study time" while you commute to and from work.

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Right, I drive 35-40min and I think that's too far.

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Specializes in PCT, RN.
Right, I drive 35-40min and I think that's too far.

I was driving 45-an hour (depending on Chicago traffic) and I was making $17 an hour. That's literally the only way I would consider ever driving that far again lol.

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Yes, by the time you get there you're tired from driving.

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Specializes in Rehabilitation, Geriatrics.

I have a 5 month old, work part-time as PCT at a hospital and I will be starting my second quarter at nursing school in July. It's a two year program. I am just starting out and know that I will continue to be challenged. I am sure this will be the most challenging two years of my life, BUT I am more excited and optimistic about it. I have my fiancé and some family helping. A good support system is def. a big portion. You can do it! I would first stop doubting and questioning yourself and start having a mindset that, I AM GOING TO DO THIS!I HAVE TO DO THIS! Time management and organization is very important. I have an agenda, wall calendar and track things on my phone. Every night before bed I know what has to be done the next day. Also, I utilize every second I have. Literally! I will put my headphones in and listen to lectures or youtube while I'm pumping, washing dishes, walking the dogs or driving in the car. I flip through flashcards and talk to my daughter when she's doing her tummy-time or jumping in jump-a-roo. Yes it can be overwhelming at times, but I pray and keep pushing myself. There are moments, when I don't want to do anything, but I keep reminding myself this won't last forever and it will pay off in the long run. I drive 30 minutes to work, so what. Yes, I'm tired and yes it is hard, but I CHOOSE not to focus on that. You have to do what is best for you. Plan ahead, organize, get your child into a routine (my daughter is ready for bed by 7pm and wakes up at 5am pretty much everyday.), be positive, pray (if you are spiritual) and have a good support system (make sure they understand your needs) and a back-up plan for sick days and emergencies. This will minimize stress. I hope everything works out for you! You can do this!

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My advice to the op is to prepare physically and mentally as it going to be tough. Also know your limitations, if your finding it too tough and it start to affect your school work then you will need make changes. Also please do not work then come to clinical, my instructors would send students home if they did that. I was offered a pct job that was 12 hour shifts and a one hour drive with toll fees. It did not work and I'm thankful it did not as it would be have been too much work. I also hope that job is worth the drive or else you are going to get very frustrated and cause yourself unnecessary stress.

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I was driving 45-an hour (depending on Chicago traffic) and I was making $17 an hour. That's literally the only way I would consider ever driving that far again lol.

Right, I hope she is getting decent pay. Mine was an hour drive (with no traffic), pay was $13 per hour. I also had to pay toll fees, If I wanted to avoid toll fees then I would have to drive longer.

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