I need of encouragment!

[Mocha01]

Hello all! I am a 23yr old single mother of a 5yr old, and a 4yr old. I am starting my pre-reqs for nursing school in may and i am very nervous. i just got a great job as a nurse tech. at a local hospital and my manager made it a point to let me know that she will work with me on my schedule and is supportive of her nursing school staff. We currently live with my mother and are moving out soon. Probably in the end of july so i can save up some cash. Basically i am going to be doing it ALL ALONE! I'm excited but also very nervous. My faith is strong but i still have times of doubt. So any advice on how to organize and prioritize would be great:). I am going to be a fulltime student, and working 12hr night shift at the hospital 3 days a week. I know i can do it, but it would be quite encouraging to hear other stories about how other people made it through.

Thank You all in advance:heartbeat

[tnbutterfly - Mary, BSN]

Hello and welcome to allnurses.

You might want to read some of the threads in the Success Stories in Nursing as members have posted some stories similar to yours. Hopefully others who have been in similar situations will come along and post.

Your goals are very admirable and I wish you the best of luck!

[Shiningstar05]

When I started school, I purchased a planner and calendar to help manage my time. I would write down my class times, work schedule, any appointments, and when you plan to study / write papers, etc. It helps you to be accountable for your responsibilities. When you receive a professor's syllabus, read it and be aware of what is expected of you.

Always read or review the chapter(s) that will be lectured in class before you attend the class. Figure out some study methods that work best for you. (Flash cards, creating a study guide, recording lectures, questions in the back of the book, etc.)

If you can, start preparing for your classes before the semester begins. Knowing that you have two small children and a job, I can't stress enough how important your time management and preparation will be.

It would be great for on study times, to study when your children are asleep or you have days or times where you can get a babysitter and study in complete silence with little distraction. I sometimes can't study without my public library! Also, depending on what school you are attending, make sure you plan on what classes you need to take and what quarter or semester you need to take them in order to apply to the nursing program. I am not a parent and do not work, so this would be my absolute advice for you. Good luck! :)