Should I be aggressive or patient while pre-nursing??

smilin_gp · Jan 7, 2006

I was in a similar situation when I started pre-nursing, and really liked the weekend shift as a medication aide (have kept with the job and shift through nursing school). One thing to get information on is the shifts and days that they orient new hires. My employer insisted on doing this during the week and it conflicted with my schedule. Also good to know is whether you will be expected to attend staff meetings outside of your regular schedule. Good luck!

NurseLatteDNP, MSN, DNP, RN · Jan 7, 2006

It all depends if you think you can handle it. Every person is different. I have worked fulltime during the pre-nursing classes. After I got into nursing school I started woking only weekends as a Nurse Aide. Good Luck to you.

StudentKD · Jan 7, 2006

IMO, unless you need the money from a job to survive college, don't take it. Yes, it would be good experience and yes, it would look good on your resume but student life is much easier if you can do it without having to work.

In my case, I was pre-nursing then applied to the Associates program at my community college. I did very well until I had to take a job about 6 months ago. I'm hanging in there, but its much tougher. I had to drop one of my summer-intensive classes because I could not handle class and work. With nursing school, I already told my DH that I'm cutting ALL unnecessaries out of the budget and cutting back on my hours. I'm considering taking a patient care position after I finish a semester of clincals for the experience.

I know people who can handle it but most of them are single or attached but without kids.

Good luck!

cynrncyn · Jan 7, 2006

Thanks guys...great suggestions. I have 2 kids 15 and 17 yoa so no real demands there now. Right now, my husband is shaking his head no...don't do it..college may be more demanding. Oh crykie...I will probably just be patient and get thru a clinical quarter first.

I don't know what I'd do without you all and this website!!!

Thanks again.

Serria · Jan 7, 2006

i have to agree with studentkd.

most of the students at my college have to balance kids, school and a part-time (some even full time) jobs. they seem stressed and complain that they can not devote enough of their time to studying. often, their jobs and the classes have conflicting schedules.

we had a student last semester who worked as a cna while in the nursing program. she had to drop out because she had too many absences/tardys. her work schedule was fine for the first 4 weeks, after that she found herself covering too many hours (due to people showing up late or schedule changes).

i'm in the same situation. my husband says i should not seek employment while i am in school. although the extra income might help, i rather have not have the extra responsibilities/stress while i am in school.

good luck to you.

MIA-RN1, RN · Jan 7, 2006

I would take the job if it were me. I work during the week and go to school during the week and its hard. I wish I could work weekends only. Like you, my kids are a bit older (11, 17) and need a little less from me than they used to.

The only thing I'd be worried about is working 3rd shift--is that overnight? If you have classes on Monday mornings, that might be a problem.

But I say if it fits in your schedule, then go for it. It will really give you a leg-up on your clinical skills and youwill gain confidence. Plus, a lot of hospitals give nursing students tuition break and flexible scheduleing. Not to mention a foot in the door when you are looking for a job after graduation.

cynrncyn · Jan 7, 2006

Yeah..3rd thift they noted is 11p-7a and Monday's anat&phys class isn't til 6p. So i would get some sleep there. I am a night owl..I love and adapt to night shifts quite well..I come alive then. See, that's why I also would love to apply for this position..to gain more confidence. I am a volunteer EMT-Advanced...but I am sure being a nurse student/nurse is a different atmosphere.

I really am not concerned with money...just the experience and confidence.

**RosesrReder, BSN, MSN, RN** · Jan 7, 2006

You've gotten great advice.

My input is if you want you can give it a try and if things aren't working out........leave the job.

Just keep in mind that this is your first quarter

and.............you want to get the highest grades possible because I am sure you are aware of the competition. (Not that I doubt you can handle it. I work too and managed straights A's).

Best wishes to you.