Looking for a NP mentor, or maybe just some positive words...

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I just started my first semester in the NP program and I don't feel like my normal self. I have not had a break in school since 2007 and am getting working experience as I complete this program. I work part time, and have a family (3 kids under 7 years old...)

I don't know if it is just me, but I feel like I am having the hardest time gathering up motivation to do my homework. I am almost a 4.0 student, and have never had this issue before. I do not know anyone in my family (or friends) who has a masters degree and I feel as if my mind is trying to sabotage me into thinking this program will be too tough (so why try... bagh!).

I keep pushing through the homework, (little by little I might add) and perhaps I will feel better once I receive an assignment that is graded by the teacher. I keep feeling like I am just spinning my wheels and will ultimately find that I am not good enough to be in this program.

eh....

Anyone have any positive feedback for me? Will this feeling ever go away? I want this so bad... I'm just scared.

I really want to just know that I will complete this program and become a rock star nurse practitioner.. :)

Thanks for letting me vent..

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

Well, first pat yourself on the back for tackling all of this! Then, take a deep breath - you've been going to school for 5+ years - thats a long time. You will feel more comfortable as time goes on. I'm gathering you are an experienced RN? If you are a new grad or relatively new grad, you've got that added stress too. That's a lot on your plate. Relax, get some graded assignments and good luck...

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Specializes in FNP.

You sound like me last year - only I was working FT... it gets better. I took no classes this summer, because I needed a break, and as I get ready to start my final year next week - I feel better about things. I have a few people at work who are very encouraging, my best friend, my mom, my husband and 3 kids... when you start getting down, have a 'champion' to get you to look towards the end. I think my mistake was going too part time... it got very boring, tedious, and I discussed my concerns with my instructors and the program director, and got the assurance there as well that once I began to work with patients, it would get better - and after my first round of clinicals - it really did. Good luck! Keep the end in sight - take a break for yourself if / when you can... and know that it's close! :)

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Specializes in family nurse practitioner.

Hi OP. I think you can do anything that you want to do and that you put your mind to. The first few classes are really dry and boring and full of busy work (not that the busy work ever ends lol) so its hard to be motivated to do that sort of stuff. Not many ppl like learing about Research, policy and theory. But once you get past all that stuff, you get into patho, advanced pharm, advanced assessment, mother baby, peds, acute illness, chronic illnesses ant etc. It becomes way better and you will be much more motivated to study those things verses the boring things. You can do it! Just try to get the home work part over with asap so you can have time for your family. If you put it off and procrastinate then you will resent it and will always feel like its hanging over your head and hindering you from doing what you really want to do :). NP school can be painful and full of challenges, but it is worth it in the end. You will be a rock star NP if you keep pressing through and applying yourself! Best wishes :) and you can do this

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I am also in NP school and trust me, you are not alone. As frustrating as school can be, we came this far for a purpose. As Tinabearn stated, research,theory and policy is not very encouraging. With all the papers we see, it's hard to see a end. Don't give up. Take a breath and keep looking towards the prize !!

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Thank you all for your kind words. You have no idea how much it means. I'm deciding to quit feeling sorry for myself and do the best I can.

Yesterday I was reading a post from a girl in a 2 year program who said she had her 1st semester of hospital clinicals and she feels like she is never going to make it. I remember feeling like that. I had a little chuckle and then considered responding because didn't most of us feel overwhelmed about what we didn't know? There was already about 30 encouraging posts, so I logged off.

After I logged off (yes, it took me that long...), it hit me... How am I any different? Granted we are in different programs, but we both feel overwhelmed about information that we don't know....yet...

Today is a new day.... I'm feeling ready to take on the world!! (or at least learn how to prescribe medication for them) :)

Sending happy thoughts to TraumaRUs, Mom2cka, Tinabearrn, NerdyNikki. I appreciate you taking the time to encourage a total stranger! :)

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

You are very welcome. That's what we are here for!

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Specializes in ICU.

Hang in there! It gets better hats off to you with all on your plate. I was like you some 20 years. I had 5 kids under 8 and was going to LPN school. You can do this. I'm now in the FNP program with a year left. Don't hesitate to inbox me when your down.

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Specializes in CTICU.

Promise, it gets better! Especially once you get into clinical and realize "I can do this!". It might get harder before it gets better, but it's a totally new way of thinking and like anything, it takes practice. Kudos to you - I did it while working fulltime but can't imagine doing it with little kids! Maybe some study groups if you're into that kind of thing with your fellow students? It really does help to decompress with each other occasionally!

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I will be starting my BSN program in Jan. of 2014 and am looking for a mentor to help guide me. I am planning on getting my DNP shortly after getting my BSN. I am thinking about opening my own clinic on day and could really use the guidance from someone with their DNP. Advise/comments would be great.

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Fyi update....I graduated my FNP program and passed my boards. Thank you all for your kind words!

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Oh my God! Congratulations!..:) Now go ye and become a rockstar Nurse Practitioner! ..:)

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