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...this is all so surreal. I start orienting tomorrow : )

You will have a fantastic journey on your way to becoming an RN. As a second career, I would've never guessed how much this experience would shape my outlook on life and future events. Take things one day at a time and you will find your experiences will be more fulfilling. I'm here, among many others, to help in any way

I completely agree with you. When answering questions you must understand what the question is asking you...with the answer you choose, does it directly apply to the question at hand. I had a hard time trying to figure this logic out. In all simplicity, I chose answers based upon what the question was asking me. For example, you might be asked what do FIRST or what is PRIORITY. It seems really simple but when you stare at your answers, they may all seem right. However, you must choose what is FIRST! I highly recommend reading the to-do list within the Kaplan study guide.

For about year I've depended on "allnurses.com" and its members for emotional and educational support. Now is my time to tell my story. I failed the NCLEX the first time. I automatically assumed taking the exam as soon as I graduated was the smartest thing to do. I quickly came to the realization that it wasn't when I received the failure notice in the mail. I didn't want to do the PV trick because I knew in my mind, I failed. I depended on Kaplan online review the first time. Thinking back on it now, I did not give it the honest effort to comply with the directions set forth within the program. Instead, I answered qbank questions, hoping that reviewing them would help me. It didn't. It was a blow to my ego and needless to say, hurt those around me (family). The second time I took the test, I made sure I brushed up on content and skipped questions all together. I convinced myself that studying content was key to passing the NCLEX exam. Again, I purchased a review program called Excel Nursing Review. It was an awesome, extensive in-class review that lasted for 7 days straight. I did this before Christmas Day 2011 because I was serious about passing. I reviewed content until I felt confident to schedule a test date around February. I thought this time around would be different. I thought the perfect gift to give my wife for Valentine's Day was "passing". Again, I failed. I'm a guy. However, I will admit that this time around was most difficult for me. I cried a little and definitely beat myself up for failing. I honestly did not see any end in sight. As I would explain to others at the time, I couldn't see any glimmer or hint of sunshine on my horizon. It felt bleak and I thought there was no hope for me. When I knew I hit rock bottom and was tired of being mad at everyone else, I turned to God. I knew I needed to be at peace with myself in order to begin studying again. I handed all my frustrations and pain to God, because I am human. I felt a huge sense of weight lifted off my shoulders. I began to study for the exam again. This time I used Kaplan. I followed it based upon the instructions provided in the front of the book. I answered all qbank questions, finished all trainers and diagnostics. I went over questions and questions, analyzed why I got them right and why I got them wrong. I used YouTube to supplement information and Medline Plus for other things too. I felt ready but cautious. I scheduled to take my test on July 13, 2012 at 0800 hours. I walked in the testing center completely at peace with myself. I knew I was going to try my best. I took 2 breaks and when I hit 75 questions, I thought my test would stop. Of course, it didn't. It lasted until 187 questions. I had multiple SATA questions. It almost felt like it was half the test. When the test shut off, I left the testing site just as relaxed as I came in. How did I feel afterwards? My wife was the first of many who asked. I felt good about it but I didn't want to say it. I mean, what would she think if I told her it was easy and all of the sudden I get a fail response (hahahaha). So I just told her I didn't know. I waited to do the PV trick until Thursday the following week. I was worried I failed again and with some convincing from the missus, I tried it. I've only experienced the CC page of PV, so when I was going through the screen, I was really nervous. Low and behold, the "good" pop-up was dead center on my computer screen. I must have checked it a dozen more times to make sure. I was genuinely shocked as most people are I'm sure. I called my wife who was out with her friend at the time. I cried "I passed"! She was shocked too. I failed to write that she had a dream the night before and told me I passed. I was scared she was wrong. But she was right. One week from taking the test, I checked the CA BRN website and I saw my name. It was clear. I am a California RN. Even after the blood, sweat, tears, feelings of hopelessness and unhealthy eating habits, the journey to get here (to this day) was completely (100 percent) worth it. I've learned a lot about myself and those around me. I have learned that God listens. It may not be the answer you want sometimes but He knows when, where and what path you are going on. Because it took me three times to pass, it made me feel stronger as a person spiritually. I needed that spiritual portion in order to be a complete nurse. Does that make any sense? I hope it does... Ah! It's 2:33 am PST and it's time to go to bed. If you are interested on my schedule or plan of attack for studying the NCLEX , shoot me a message and I will reply.