sdmommie

I bought a study manual (the one offered by ATI) and did a practice test online. I would recommend doing both.

It's incredibly difficult for those who live here to get a job. It's not impossible, but here's what I've been told... Scripps isn't hiring New Grads right now unless you are already a Scripps employee. Every hospital is looking at upwards of 400 applicants for every 1 position. Not really good odds. San Diego is an amazing place to live, but getting a job as a new grad here is REALLY difficult.

I skim the key headings of the chapters before the class. Paying special attention to the bold, because they are most likely going to be part of a pop quiz. During class, I make notes on the Powerpoint printout. Then, I read the chapter, making notes in outline form, including material that was covered in class in the Powerpoints. Before the exams, I usually read the text again and make notes on the things I don't know or have to memorize. Some people make flashcards, but I find them time consuming. Oh, if there is a chance of a study guide being available on Amazon or something, I would get it. It helped me quiz myself for the exams.

These are the things I recommend... 1) Clear your schedule as much as possible. You will need lots of time to study. Seems easy, but make sure you have not committed to lots of things in advance. 2) Get your school supplies and buy in bulk. Went through 2 reams of paper in 2 months. Get extra toner cause you're gonna use it. Buy extra of stuff you might lose. I bought a few pen lights, because that just seems like something I would lose. Flashcards. Rolling backpack/laptop bag is essential. 3) Once you get the syllabus for the class, start reading immediately! We had 22 chapters to read in the first 4 weeks. 4) Buy the study guide. Mine was not recommended or required, but I got it anyway. Whatever Fundamentals book you have will probably have the study guide for it. Good luck and hope this helps!

Congrats! Two people did not show up for the orientation yesterday. I guess they lost their shot. Feel free to PM me if you have any questions about the orientation.

Hey Everyone, I just got accepted to Grossmont's Nursing program (yay!). I will have to arrange for childcare during the time that I am in school or on my way to clinicals (or wait until Fall 2009 for the E/W program). For those who have been through it, could you please give me an idea of what times I might be scheduled? And what other time commitments I might have besides what it on the schedule. Thanks so much!

The school that I'm on the waiting list for is in danger of losing it's NLN accreditation. How important is that accreditation for the school? How will it affect my future job searches and getting an advanced degree? Any comments would be appreciated as I am freaking out!