how do you manage work and school at the same time

Nurse Kyles, BSN, RN · Apr 20, 2011

If you can learn online, I would suggest online courses. That way you really only have to work around your clinical times. I have some friends who sometimes (or always) work overnights, and this has been their best option.

Personally I work 2 ten hour days a week, and sometimes I feel that is too much. Best luck to you!

STCC2013 · Apr 20, 2011

Hi,

I am in a similar situation. I work 3 12's but strictly days and I have to keep that for both financial and benefit reasons. My plan is to work every weekend and one weekday, giving me 4 school days weekly. It stinks to have to work every weekend, but I figure I can do pretty much anything for 16 weeks (a semester) at a time!

Double-Helix, BSN, RN · Apr 20, 2011

The first problem I see is that many classes are only offered three times a week MWF, twice a week T,TH, or once per week. Then you have to factor in clinicals which may be in the daytime, evenings or on weekends. Will you be able to design a schedule that allows you three free days per week for work without missing classes? Working only nights might be a better fit for your schedule, but of course you will have to work some nights before you have class. Online classes, as previously suggested, might be a good idea.

As far as time management, working and going to school is difficult, but not impossible. It will definately require that you have good study skills and set aside time to study. You may not be able to keep up a full time schedule- either classes or work. Since you don't have any kids, you might be better off to work part time and take out a couple of loans for the meantime.

Also, bear in mind, that there is no guarantee you will be able to work as an RN after graduating, as the job market is very tough right now, but this depends on the area you work in and whether your hospital would be willing to offer you an RN position.

Ashley