just feeling a lil down

You seem really frustrated and its understadable, but dont let anything get in the way of your dreams or education. Take everything one step at a time. As far as the NET or Teas, HESI tests, if you are having trouble on the math portion there are practice books available. The math on the tests is basic math and it can be difficult especially if you haven't done it in awhile. My 10 year old know more math then I do. But if the books don't help, maybe you can get help for friends or someone from school. Don't give up, it's just another hoop you gotta jump through, but you can do it!!!

I'm sorry that you are having such a rough time. I know how things can appear when you are feeling down and frustrated. Everything seems so out of reach. A lot of people have chosen to go the LPN route, whether first beginning or after working as a CNA like you. It is something to be excited about and good for you if choose to take that path if that's what works best for you! Have you been taking any pre-reqs? I think many find just being in a class setting again helps them process information better and get back into that school set of mind.

As for the entrance exams, definately get the study guides and brush up on your skills. If math is the only thing you are consistantly failing on, see if you can find a way to scrounge up some extra money for a tutor. I'm willing to bet you would only need to pay for several hours worth as the math portion is fairly basic (for someone who has taken math recently, that is!) and doesn't cover too much material, or require a bunch of fundational concepts like say a college alebra class. It's well worth the $100 or so you might pay in order to overcome the difficulties you are having with the portion of the tests. Good luck on everything and keep your chin up! Possibly the most important thing you can teach your boys is to keep trying even if you don't succeed right away! Determination always gets you ahead in life, no matter what road you take.

Before I can even think to encourage you, I must first APPLAUD YOU for sharing your situation with us. Unlike a lot of people, some of us do not have the "perfect" road to success without any problems. In spite of your challenges, you are able to have determination, and that is not a tool that everyone possess. Maybe since your sons are teenagers they can help you out with some of the math questions you have. You have to stop speaking negatively over yourself, words are powerful. Since you can't receive grants, maybe you can take a class or two at a time until you have satisfied the requirements needed to apply for scholarships. Maybe your job, or another one offers tuition reembursement?

Stay encouraged, you are already on the path because you now recognize what the problem was. One day at a time, make every step count. You will be back in class and finished with your nursing program before you know it.

I hope this helps a little. Chin up, this too shall pass.

thank you so much for those words of encouragement as I sit here and write this to you I am a lil emotional yes I have taken pre req's and of coure like usual math and my science classes are all thats left.... so I will and I am going to push on... God bless you so much for taking time to read my blog

I am new here, but I was moved by what you wrote. My husband and I both are trying to pursue careers in a bad economic time. We wish we had been wiser when we were younger, but we all can't really dwell on the past can we!?

I have not taken the NET yet. Have you? If not, I have heard it is basic math skills. I am not affluent in the math department and so naturally a tad nervous, but by allowing this to be a roadblock, it will only prevent me from getting to my desire dream.

It can sometimes be a challenge and a fight to get what we want, but in the end it will be worth it. Keep fighting! GOOD LUCK

I have not read through all the replies yet so I am sorry if I am repeating. How old are your sons and are they good at math. Males tend to be more math orientated to start and if they are HS age and good at math can they help you??

If that isn't an option search "math" on this site, their are lots and lots of links to helpful sites.

Are student loans an option to help financially with school?

I understand your frustrations. Since I decided to pursue nursing I have hit many of roadblocks, but I am someone that when I get focused on a goal I push through. Many times though I was fed up and ready to quit but I slept on it, got up and focused in on my goal again.

Best of luck to you, hang in there :)

I'm an older student too, and I'm paying cash for my classes (thank God they have a payment plan!) I am going to be taking college algebra AND statistics this fall (I am going into a BSN program). I haven't taken math in 20+ years. What I plan on doing is going over my daughters middle school and HS math books (we homeschool) before class starts and using them for reference when I get stuck.

However, in our local community college ADN program there is no math requirement to get into the program. You need just AP 1&2, Micro, English comp and Human growth & dev. None of which require anything more than basic math. The problem with the CC's is the wait list, 2-3 years here in CO. You will probably have to look at loans instead of grants now, and many I hear will cover even living expenses.

I applaud you for being a good role model for your boys - don't give up. You need to carry on even if it takes one class at a time, or waiting a few years to get in, you will show them how important goals are and perseverance. They will celebrate with you even if it doesn't happen tomorrow.

Good Luck msmarshun! You can do it!!!!!

Thank you guys so much for all of your words of encouragement you all don't know how much it means to have someone, anyone, just give those kind words... you know I always thought when you reached a certain age wisdom and a lot of childish ways would leave a person especially if you have kids of your own, however some of the nurse that I work with at the hospital here love to throw things in your face as if to say they are smarter than a person, or they "always have money".... wow... its something else... but any way.... they have to answer to that maybe some day.. but I have taken the TEAS, and my boys are in 7th and 5th grade so I am going to pick their little brains and see what I can find out... I pray i will live through all of this but again thank you soooo much lets me know people do care for one another even complete strangers!!!!

You are still young!!!!!!!!! You have your whole life ahead of you, so what your not 18 or 20. Keep going, don't stop!!! Good Luck.

I can so relate to how you're feeling right now! I am the one who posted the

"I give up" post because of such a horrible nightmare that I'm going through with

my Micro class, the way it's being 'taught' and the instructor's rigid, relentless

pursuit of intimidating us.

I understand how hard life can be, but you have to keep going, just as I do.

Do not let your past keep you prisoner; go to the high school near you, see if

they can help you get some tutoring; go to the library, etc.

I have been totally revitalized, by the wonderful nurses on this board to go and

take this class online:) and I'm waiting to find out how:)

Life will be tough but you can do this, just as I can:)

God bless you!

thank you so much... good luck to you as well God bless you!