I was 27 when I went back to school to start me pre-reqs and then continued on to nursing school. Algebra was the first class on my list that my advisor said would either make or break my chances of being accepted in to the nursing program that I wanted to apply to since the application process is so highly competitive. I too felt weak in my math skills (C's in high school and haven't had to think about algebra for years). I took advantage of the free tutoring services that my campus provided and attended study groups with class mates. I did not cut ANY corners. At the end of the semester I had earned an A in the class but more importantly my success gave me the confidence to focus and push through the rest of my pre-reqs earning A's in each class. I then realized the old say was true that "if you put your mind to it, you can do anything". It is truly a great feeling to look back and honestly say to yourself that you tried your hardest and had no regrets about the effort that you put in to your education. I have been an RN for 7 months now and I whenever I begin to doubt myself I still reflect on what I accomplished during nursing school and that gives me the boost that I need to work even harder for what I want.
So, my advice to you...some people have the ability to earn high grades in the pre-reqs and nursing school without having to set aside time each day to study. Those people are lucky! If you are not one of these "lucky" people jump in head first. Embrace the educational experience. Find excitement in learning but more importantly UNDERSTANDING new concepts. When you feel overwhelmed take it one day at a time, sometimes you may even have to take it one hour at a time. Be very organized and complete assignments ahead of time if you can. This will save you stress in the long run. Start your studying process at least a week before the scheduled exam. This way you'll be fully prepared when the exam comes and you won't find yourself cramming the night before when really you should be resting up for a fresh test brain. Take advantage of any and all extra credit opportunities. Develop a positive and professional relationship with your instructors. They’ll be the ones to provide personal recommendations letters for jobs later on. Lastly, take time to care for yourself mentally andp hysically. What I just described was my life for 4 years. Looking back on it now it really flew by though at times during the middle of the process it felt like time was standing still. Good luck and congratulations on making the decision to go nursing school!!!
I started at 49, am 52 now with one more semester to go. Chemistry was hard for me. I never had it in High School. I liked A & P. So far the nursing classes are fine. I am far from the oldest student which helps. I think the average age in our class is 35. My only advice is to watch out for some instructors. Hopefully they have kept up with the current industry standards. We have a couple that have such big ego's and like to grind us down. Fortunately the other ones make up for it but you always have that one that has a class you can't avoid. Do what needs to be done and you will be fine.
Lola Lou, BSN
99 Posts
I was 27 when I went back to school to start me pre-reqs and then continued on to nursing school. Algebra was the first class on my list that my advisor said would either make or break my chances of being accepted in to the nursing program that I wanted to apply to since the application process is so highly competitive. I too felt weak in my math skills (C's in high school and haven't had to think about algebra for years). I took advantage of the free tutoring services that my campus provided and attended study groups with class mates. I did not cut ANY corners. At the end of the semester I had earned an A in the class but more importantly my success gave me the confidence to focus and push through the rest of my pre-reqs earning A's in each class. I then realized the old say was true that "if you put your mind to it, you can do anything". It is truly a great feeling to look back and honestly say to yourself that you tried your hardest and had no regrets about the effort that you put in to your education. I have been an RN for 7 months now and I whenever I begin to doubt myself I still reflect on what I accomplished during nursing school and that gives me the boost that I need to work even harder for what I want.
So, my advice to you...some people have the ability to earn high grades in the pre-reqs and nursing school without having to set aside time each day to study. Those people are lucky! If you are not one of these "lucky" people jump in head first. Embrace the educational experience. Find excitement in learning but more importantly UNDERSTANDING new concepts. When you feel overwhelmed take it one day at a time, sometimes you may even have to take it one hour at a time. Be very organized and complete assignments ahead of time if you can. This will save you stress in the long run. Start your studying process at least a week before the scheduled exam. This way you'll be fully prepared when the exam comes and you won't find yourself cramming the night before when really you should be resting up for a fresh test brain. Take advantage of any and all extra credit opportunities. Develop a positive and professional relationship with your instructors. They’ll be the ones to provide personal recommendations letters for jobs later on. Lastly, take time to care for yourself mentally andp hysically. What I just described was my life for 4 years. Looking back on it now it really flew by though at times during the middle of the process it felt like time was standing still. Good luck and congratulations on making the decision to go nursing school!!!