RPN program...1st week...So overwhelmed!!!!

[MC-Jo]

Hi Everyone,

So this is my first week; 2nd day in the RPN program and I already feel like my head is spinning out of control.

There is so much being thrown at you in each class. I'm worried about being able to keep my p/t job, being on top or readings, assignments, etc. Is this normal? Have I bitten off more than I could chew?

I have so much reading (and making notes) to do, that I don't even know where to start.

Any words of advice???

Thanks a million.

[JohanneJF]

Hi,

I took the RN program and found it very, very challenging! If I were you, I would probably stop working, if you could financially manage. The RPN program is very intense, and working will def. interfere with your school work. As for studying, I found the use of cue cards very helpful with my learning. Although it is very time consuming, they are a great tool for memorization. Also, I found if I wrote something out over and over and over again, it stuck with me and I was able to recall the information on tests. In addition, study groups are great too...more heads are better than one! Also, don't be afraid to ask questions...as the stupidest question, is the question that you don't ask and you end up harming your client/patient/resident! Good luck! :)

[m_aidez]

What are your goals? Do you plan on being an RPN for the long run or do you want to bridge and get your RN few years later down the road? Although work is important in the short term, school is more important in the long term. You have to decide whether school is worth jeopardizing so that you can work and provide for yourself. Maybe look for a job around campus, they're more apt to be lenient towards students.

[MC-Jo]

Thank you very much everyone. I haven't started my p/t job, but will soon. I will definitely not allow my job to get in the way of the time that needs to be devoted to this program. If it gets to that point, I will quit the job. Thanks again everyone...

[loriangel14, RN]

Yeah I remember that feeling of having a lot of information being thrown at you at once.You look at the outline for a subject and read what the learning goals are and you swear you will not be able to stuff it all in your brain.But you will manage if you don't let yourself get behind.

Good luck and keep us posted.