I am psyching myself out... someone smack some sense into me

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So I am starting college as a brand new student. I am a little late to the game- I graduated from high school in 2003. I work full time where I make pretty good money but after having my daughter a year ago, I decided that being a good role model to her means to show her to pursue to do something rewarded and truly will make you happy. For me, nursing was it.

Here's the issue I am having: I start class on Monday 8/19. I have not written a paper in probably 12 years (my Senior classes were a breeze and did very little work). I haven't taken a math class (my worst subject) in 11 years. Science? Ha! Talking 13 years! My classes this semester are English 1A, Elementary Algebra, and Biology. I am so scared that I won't remember simple things and will fall behind in the class. I am already putting my husband and daughter through a lot by me taking on so much, I don't want to let them down and screw myself over getting into a nursing program in a couple years.

I think I need some inspiration from my fellow late 20's and beyond friends who started very late to the game that were able to pick up like they came from high school. What did you do to get that student mind set back? Did you also juggle a full time job and home/mommy duties? I don't have any friends that are doing this along with me so I don't have anyone close that can relate to what I'm feeling.

Wow I sound pretty whiny don't I? ;)

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Specializes in CVICU.

I'm 19 so I can't give you much personal advice, but just to let you know, I had many 30, 40, and even 50 year olds in my pre-reqs (College Algebra, A&P 1&2, etc) and they kept up quite well. In fact, the students I saw failing were those fresh out of high school who weren't taking it seriously.

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I dropped out of his school at age 15. Ended up getting my GED the same year I should've graduated (2004). Didn't consider going to college until after 6+ years working at a dead end fast foods job.

I had to take remedial math (pretty much Algebra I and II all over again!) And went on to my pre-reqs for nursing. I thought it would be hard to get back into it, especially while working a full time job, but I managed to maintain a 4.0 GPA until I got into my nursing classes! I think being older definitely helped! You have the desire to succeed and if you're like me, paying out of pocket and/or with loans is some major motivation to do well.

I managed to graduate with a 3.3 GPA and get my ASN. I am actually excited to start taking classes to work towards my BSN next semester.

The fact you've been out of school for so long doesn't matter. It sounds like you were a good student back then, and I'm sure that ability to do well academically will come back to you!

Good luck! :)

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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

Take a deep breath.....it's going to be alright. There are many resources and computer programs to run your paper through to correct it.....there will be resources on campus for free help. You have here as well.

((HUGS)) you will be fine....((HUGS))

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I graduated HS in 2003 too! :cat: I dropped out of college in 2005 and just free spirited my way through my 29s. I'm not a mommy, so hats off to you for making the leap back into school!

I went back to school in 2010 to finish my bachelors. Remember you might have the unique advantage of being older, mature and more experienced in the workforce than some of your cohorts. So now you just have to marry that with successful student habits in order to really make it.

Here's what I did:

1. My boyfriend was my study partner and overall support. He'd sometimes read my essays and quiz me for tests.

2. I didn't wait last minute for anything! I bought my books and started reviewing some of the topics that were mentioned on me syllabus.

3. I became well acquainted with my professors email and the schedule for writing and math tutors available on campus.

4. I scoped out who was successful in areas of study that I sucked in and tried to form a study group.

5. I brushed up on APA formats by using the Purdue Owl website and lots of YouTube.

6. I'd find time to pamper myself. I deserve it!

7. I studied at work. I studied on the train. I studied in between cooking dinner. Heck, whenever there was down time my eyes were in the textbooks or my notes.

8. My fun time with friends was greatly reduced but I did fit it in at least once a month.

9. I'd have my freak out moments about paying bills and being an adult... At which point I'd scream or workout.you need an outlet.

10. I kept and keep in mind that the effort I put in now will go towards something greater and bigger than me. I have to possess the faith and confidence to follow through.

Good luck to you! I'm sure you'll succeed!

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I graduated high school and started college for two weeks before I became sick and had to withdraw. 6 years later I decided I wanted Togo back. I had to get all of my pre req's and a few basics and was accepted into nursing program. I just had orientation and my first class is next week. I also have three very young children (all under 4). I passed everything (before nursing school) with A's and I hope to do well in nursing also! Good luck!! You can do it!

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I was in a similar boat. I as well graduate HS in '03 but I did attend college right after in something completely unrelated to nursing. I wasn't able to do my senior year because of financial reasons and dropped out of school. Then life happened. I moved across the country, got married, and had a baby in Sept 2010. When I decided to go back to school I was a nervous wreck. I'm going into my second year of pre-req's. i decided to split them up into 5 semesters so I can devote a lot of time to the two or three classes I took at a time.

Here's what I did:

-Developed a good relationship with my advisor. When ever I have a question I email him, call him or set up an appointment. I visit him at least twice during each semester to make sure everything is on track and to see if there have been any changes in the application process that I need to be aware about.

-If your school has a "Writing Lab" and "Math Lab" (it's basically free tutoring on campus with an honors student or someone very proficient in the subject) go there and get help with your papers and math homework.

-Utilize professor office hours. You know the old saying "There is no such thing as a dumb question. Except one that isn't asked." Nothing can be truer in college. If you can't make it to office hours send them an email. Most are more than happy to help you out. Believe it or not they don't want to watch you struggle and fail. They are on your side.

-YouTube... 'Nuff said.

-KhanAcademy.org - It has fantastic videos, especially math related, that have saved my butt on more than on occasion. Plus, it's FREE. It also has practice problems that are really great.

Keep in mind you are not alone! You will most likely NOT be the oldest person in your class. From my personal experience, try to get a study group of people that are close in age to you. I find that us old farts in the class tend to have a different out look on school than the 18 year olds. **No offense to all you young bloods out there... it's just what I have experienced. College is a whole different beast when you have kids, a family, and a house to look after.**

Anyway, GOOD LUCK. Stay positive. It won't be that bad... I promise!

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I went back to school when I was 36... you can do this!

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Specializes in Acute Care, Rehab, Palliative.

I went back at 38. I never finished high school.I was scared too. Especially when it came to writing papers and tackling science. I graduated third in my class.Deep breath. You can do it.Good luck.

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KhanAcademy.org - It has fantastic videos, especially math related, that have saved my butt on more than on occasion.

I just found out about this! It definitely is awesome. Helped with my NLN exam :cat:

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You will be fine, I am 50 and will be starting my first semester in an RN program. I am scared and nervous and excited all at once but I keep telling myself I have lived longer, expeirenced more and worked the same job for 26 years which shows a good work ethic. I went back to college in 2012 and made the Dean's list both semesters! I was the kid in high school who had to look at my diploma to see if it was even signed! Age gives you a better understanding in some areas, don't forget that and Good Luck to you!

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I graduated High School in 1998, took a couple semesters of college and dropped out. Thirteen years later, with a husband and 4 kids, I finally got a chance to go back to school. I've been a stay at home mom for the past 10 years and was terrified to go back to school. It's strange at first being in a class full of teenagers, but you get used to it. I've spent the past two years taking my pre-nursing courses and I start the ADN program next week. The difference between me at 18 and 33 is the determination. I want it more. I take so much more pride now in my accomplishments. It's not just for me now, it's for my family. If I can do it, so can you! You'll do great.

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