Want to be a nurse but I am really bad academically

[Raistlin007]

I want to get into nursing because I want to help people and earn an average wage, since I'm struggling financially, but I have a major problem, I am bad academically. I dropped out of high school after 10th grade and got my G.E.D. I have taken no science classes ever and I don't even know basic high school algebra. I was looking into an LPN program where I live and to even qualify for it I need to pass a test called a TEAS exam. It's broken down into four sections.

I tried to do the practice math section and I bombed it. I saw math I never saw before and felt lost, and this is simply the eligibility test to see if I could get into the LPN program. Is Nursing simply an unrealistic goal for someone in my situation? I have no idea where I go or who I talk to, to try to get educated enough to pass this LPN eligibility test. I really want to be a nurse, but have no idea what to do in my situation. Am I simply dreaming too big, or can someone in my academic situation realistically become a nurse?

[Reha786]

I think you are overwhelming yourself. Take a step back, talk to an academic adviser and remind yourself continuously that there are no shortcuts. It will take some time, lots of work but there is no reason on earth you cannot do this.

Nobody is born knowing math...they are taught. You will do the same...you will learn.

I strongly suggest you take one step at a time, not give up and always remember that if millions of people can do this...so can you.

[Reha786]

this sounds more like a self confidence issue. I left my house in 9th grade and didn't get my GED until I was 24. Didn't start prereqs until I was 26. Then took a year and a half off.

I too had a crippling fear of never believing I was smart enough. I let my fears get in the way of learning material.

When I started college, I had to take remedial math. Passed that, and went onto pass statistics. Hadn't taken a science course since I was in grade school; passed all of my major science courses with A's. Even tutored other classmates.

was accepted into 4 out of the 7 schools I applied to for nursing. And the TEAS isn't that tough.

Focus mainly on your weaknesses, and brush up on your strong topics.

kahn academy is a non profit that has a overwhelming amount of videos for math (from 2nd grade all the way up to college maths) and science topics, along with tests. libraries let you use their books for free. Barnes and Noble doesn't mind you staying and using their study prep books (just dont write in them, bring a notebook!)

set a study schedule, stick to it, and do a few practice exams that mimic the test environment (set a timer, do as many questions as you'd see on the exam, use a quiet room free from distractions.)

you can do this.

WOW! This is amazing and inspirational!

[Kgs2017]

I started community college straight out of high school with a 4.0 GPA and still had to take remedial math. I'm also in my second semester of nursing school and I'm just now learning how to study properly. Don't let highschool academics make you think you're not smart enough. Motivation is what really helps you succeed.

[FutureNeonatalNurse]

Thank you for all of your advice I appreciate it. I guess that's why you people are good nurses you're good at helping people. I'll look into talking to someone at Community College. I've just been very discouraged and down lately because I am 32 and stuck working a survival job with no hope or future, and feel like a failure in life. Would you suggest I look into a CNA training program so I can get my foot in the door in the nursing profession, or should I focus on getting up to speed with my education in community college first? I do appreciate all of the advice and encouragement though, you people are really kind and helpful and I'm sure you are good nurses.

My story may be different yet similar in a few ways. However, take it with a grain of salt because I am not a nurse yet. I dropped out of school at the age of 16. I decided to get my CNA certificate and my High School Equivalency Diploma. I decided I wanted to become a nurse. I was in the same place as you. I knew my math skills were terrible. I also know that my social skills right now aren't the best. But, A few months ago I took Accuplacer and im in the process of completing my pre-requisites for the nursing program that involve remedial courses as well. If you put in the work, you will see the results. My social skills are improving as well as my academic skills. I won't lie to you. It is not easy when you are hard on yourself. The thought that keeps me going is that each step gets me closer to my goal. Take your first step. Enroll in a pre-requisite course at your community college. I am at a community college right now and I can guarantee you that people from all walks of life return to school. I have met people from ages 15-76 who were students. Do not let your age be a factor. The MOMENT you find yourself struggling in a course, take advantage of your resources! You can do this. It is not going to be easy. The biggest tips I have for you is to create a support system, develop time management skills, and do not give up the second you experience a hardship. Do not make excuses on why you can't do something. Try it. Find your "why" and remember it each time you feel like quitting.

I apologize in advance for my grammar mistakes. I am typing on my phone and it is not the best device to type long responces on.

[bsyrn, ASN, RN]

Getting your GED is not an easy thing to do so I know you are intelligent. That being said, Take your CNA classes and try some basic math and English at your local community college. Once you complete those, try for your LPN. Take it one day at a time and you will succeed. Keep us updated on how you do!

[ddrftw]

I'm 28 years old and I literally just got my GED last week after dropping out my senior year of highschool. I actually got my ged WHILE I was attending college as a full-time student and I got 3.8GPA in my core classes. Trust me, if you put your mind to you, you can do it!