How do I know I am smart enough to become a RN?

[tkesh]

I keep doubting myself telling myself I am not smart enough to be a RN. I am 36, I work 24 hours a week as a PCA. I love my job and I think I am darn good at it. I am just so scared of failing out. How did you know you were smart enough to do it?

[Laurlkat]

I'm almost though my first year of a two-year program, and I'm STILL wondering if I am smart enough. But I'm still here, hanging on for dear life. And I do love it. Have faith in yourself. Do or do not, there is no try.

Laurie

[my crazy world]

I am 38 and I dont know if I am smart enough to make it. But I am not going to let that hold me back. It has been years since I have been in school, and high school was not my cup of tea.. lemme tell ya. But what I do know is that I am going to give it my all each and everyday, I am going to learn how to be an amazing student and use the resources available to me. I am going to learn from my failures, and celebrate my victories. I am going to be stress out, living on popcorn and coffee taking it one day at a time through no sleep, tears, and I am going to appreciate each and every moment of the wonderful journey. It's all we can do... if you can do this then heck you can go on this amazing journey with me... and everyone here

[tenjuna, MSN]

I was 4.0 student until I got to clinicals...and now I am barely (and I mean barely) passing. I study 12 hours a day and while I get the material, critical thinking is not my bag (but I am getting there). Keep your eyes on the prize, it may seem out of reach but you'll get there!

[MrsStudentNurse]

Just don't make it an option. A few years back I half heartedly "did" some of the nursing pre-reqs and therefore received grades reflecting that. Fast forward a few years, here I am in my second semester, finishing up my pre -reqs and it is no longer an option to do poorly. I remind myself people's lives will be in my hands one day and to try less than is not an option. I believe every one is capable of getting good grades, it's just the work and prioritization that most aren't willing to fully sacrifice. You can do it, if you want it!

[PatriciaJ]

I always find it fascinating that men never ask these types of questions. They never question if they are smart enough. For some reason women always do. If you are already a PNA, then you know that you like that type of work. Go back to school! Never second guess yourself. If you put the time in and study and are really interested, you will be fine. Go for it!!!

[utahskiier]

Material wise, pre-reqs are phenominally more time consuming and difficult to master than what you get in nursing school.

[Vespertinas]

So basically, you don't have to be smart to be a nurse. True story.

It's the same way with plenty of other professions too, though. I know of idiot lawyers and government officials. Stupid people are everywhere. It's a handicap but they manage...or we manage.

Anyway, reach for the stars!

[ZombieMomma]

Wow thanks for your honesty! I have the same fears. I just try to think of my education as small short term steps. That way I don't feel overwhelmed with the big picture.

[sesilia_chan]

If you are motivated enough you will succeed believe me

[abaloney77]

Getting through nursing school isn't about being smart, it's about how well you can take tests. Nursing tests will LEVEL the smartest people out there. They mostly are not indicative of real world nursing. It's just another example of how our school system completely fails.

[Stephalump]

Getting through nursing school isn't about being smart it's about how well you can take tests. Nursing tests will LEVEL the smartest people out there. They mostly are not indicative of real world nursing. It's just another example of how our school system completely fails.[/quote']

What do you mean "level?"

[abaloney77]

What do you mean "level?"

Fail. There are tons of threads on this on this board, how Mrs. or Mr. 4.0 prereq student is now getting Cs on their exams.