NurseKat

I don't have any personal advice because I only worked part time during nursing school, but just wanted to say thank you for your service. <3

I am in California and they did not require us to have a doctor sign off on our health conditions. I don't have any chronic diseases or disabilities but in my nursing program, we did have diabetic students who needed more frequent breaks for snacks, and students with ADHD who had to take their exams in a quieter place and for a longer allotted time. If I were you I would schedule a phone or in-person meeting with someone in the nursing program asap and keep communication open about your needs.

Not in California.

Spend at least a couple hours a day, no matter who you are. Do it while on campus if possible, to limit distractions. Definitely let your close friends and family know that the next couple of years, they can't take anything personal when you are not able to make every holiday and celebration. Both you and they need to know that it's only temporary.

Let your friends and family know that you are going to have a rough couple of years, and you need their understanding and acceptance. You will not be able to attend every holiday, celebration, or get together. Only others who have been through nursing school understand this, so it may be difficult for them to understand, but maybe assertively let them know from the get go. I lost friends during nursing school and even a family member because they did not understand the pressure I was under and the time that was required to dedicate to clinicals, studying, a part time job, and a healthy body and mind.

I am partial to my MacBook Air.. Bought it during nursing school and it was great. Super lightweight, battery lasts a long time, doesn't take long to charge, keyboard is quiet if you want to type notes during lecture.. I still use it now 8-9 years later as I get my MSN online.

Have a good sense of humor!

Ugh, I am so sorry this happened to you. Does this mean you failed your Nursing IV class? I doubt you will be able to appeal the grade you already received, but perhaps you could appeal to be able to re-take one or more of the exams?

I think "have" to is not necessarily true. I started out in a SNF as a new grad, then an outpatient clinic for many years, and now a case manager for an insurance company, and I am doing great. So no, you don't "have" to do anything as a nurse, it is such a diverse occupation with so many options! Public health/psych nursing jobs may want you to have experience first though. I think you should take whatever experience you are able to get, whether it's immediately in the field you think you love (you may change your mind), or in the hospital. Any kind of experience will benefit you in some way, and honestly you have no idea how many times I've heard nurses end up in a totally different field than they thought they had always wanted, and thrive.

They probably have their own insecurities, which is usually why cliques and bullies act the way they do. You don't need them. If you need help during clinical, use your instructor and even the nurses on the floor as a resource!

I waited about 6 months after finishing my ADN program and working a little while before I started my online BSN. I agree with the above comment that although it's not easy, it's much more chill than the actual nursing program. You won't regret taking at least a small break from school after you graduate. It's difficult to learn a new job at the same time you start a new degree.

Hi Scott! I start at GCU Sept 30th as well! Professional Dynamics. WooHoo!