Should I keep trying?

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I am currently in Chemistry for the third attempt. I am doing well this time. Out of the 3 tests we have taken so far I got two B's, but the last one I am afraid I got as low as a D. I seemed to go in slow motion during the test. I am so worried I am going to fail again.

I have been taking classes since 2004 so that I can eventually become a nurse. I also have two kids and I seem to lack study time and I kick myself for it because I really can make the time (like right now being online instead of doing homework). I have this chemistry, the two anatomy and physiologies, the microbiology, and one more math class to complete and then all I have to do is apply to a program.

I am worried that I am just fooling myself after all these years and I am trying to achieve an impossible dream. That this happens for other people that are smarter, but not for me. I am worried that if I struggle with chemistry so badly, then the biology classes with be much more difficult. I need someone to give me an experience where you struggled or doubted in a similar way? Some encouragement? Helpful advice? Thank you.

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Specializes in School Nursing.

Chemistry, for me, was the hardest science class I've taken in college (and I've taken a bunch)-- don't judge how you're going to do in the others by Chem.

At least take some of the direct nursing pre-reqs (like the APs and Micro) before deciding if this is the route you want to take.

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Chemistry, for me, was the hardest science class I've taken in college (and I've taken a bunch)-- don't judge how you're going to do in the others by Chem.

At least take some of the direct nursing pre-reqs (like the APs and Micro) before deciding if this is the route you want to take.

Great advice. Thank you. :)

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chemistry is definitely the hardest pre req class, its just overall complicated... i know for me chem was hard because it didn’t relate to nursing (well thats how i felt) so it was hard to stay focused. the rest of the science prereq classes relate very well to nursing so i think that definitely helps. keep with it, chem is the worst, once you get past that things should be better (not necessarily easier but better).

i don’t know how your teacher tests or lectures but something that helps me is reviewing every night what we have learned so far. it shouldn’t take long, just read over your notes every night, repetition always helps.

most important thing is so stay positive and remind yourself that this is something you really want and you can do it… confidence helps a lot.

keep with it!!

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Specializes in Community Health/School Nursing.

I am really just a C student. I have been all of my life. I have to work hard at everything I do. It took me 3yrs to get to the point where I could apply for nursing school. I was turned down by 2 and felt it was over. I thought I wasn't smart enough, good enough, and never stood a chance. BUT when I applied at the college I eventually graduated from in 09' with my ASN I felt like I had just as good of a chance as anyone else of graduating.

I put up a list on my fridge (where I could see it every day) of all the reasons why I wanted to be a nurse, all the reasons why I would make a good nurse. I read it almost every day. It really helped me keep going on those days where I was exhausted and couldn't see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Just know that.....YOU ARE WORTHY AND DESERVING OF ALL GOOD THINGS.

You deserve being a nurse or whatever it is you decide just as much as the person next to you! You can do it!!

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Thanks Tristannicole and wavewatcher. This is very reassuring. I am happy to have you guys let me know I am not alone with what I am going through. The tips help also!

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I can absolutely relate to what you’re going through. I find myself thinking about what can become that I lose the focus of what needs to be done now to move towards that direction. I’m a single mother and it is very hard to squeeze so much in a very small space. Just hold on and don’t give up. Don’t say that it is impossible because it’s possible if you just believe and willing to put the time and effort; you’re almost on your way. You still have enough time to get a good grade in your Chemistry class, if it takes you 8 hours or more to understand one material then it is what it is. It’s not about who is smart who makes it into nursing school, it all about determination and not giving up. Whenever you plan to take A&P next semester just start reading ahead when time.

SN: I find myself on this site all of the time when I know I am supposed to be studying; but the truth is my brain is letting me know that I need to take a break because I over-do-it sometimes. Don’t give up and Pray for strength and direction.

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I am really just a C student. I have been all of my life. I have to work hard at everything I do. It took me 3yrs to get to the point where I could apply for nursing school. I was turned down by 2 and felt it was over. I thought I wasn't smart enough, good enough, and never stood a chance. BUT when I applied at the college I eventually graduated from in 09' with my ASN I felt like I had just as good of a chance as anyone else of graduating.

I put up a list on my fridge (where I could see it every day) of all the reasons why I wanted to be a nurse, all the reasons why I would make a good nurse. I read it almost every day. It really helped me keep going on those days where I was exhausted and couldn't see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Just know that.....YOU ARE WORTHY AND DESERVING OF ALL GOOD THINGS.

You deserve being a nurse or whatever it is you decide just as much as the person next to you! You can do it!!

Great message...;)

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Chemistry isn't everybody's subject. For instance, I'm doing pre-nursing/nursing, and I love chemistry, but biology, which is probably more important toward our major, isn't really one of my strong points. It does take time and dedication, but don't give up just yet. Try taking a biology class and see how you feel about it. If you really don't like it, then maybe try giving another major a shot. Nursing isn't easy. I haven't started the program yet, but this is what I've heard, and I don't doubt it with how competitive it is. Also, if all your tests are weighted the same, 3 Bs and a D could potentially average out to a C. Don't forget to take into consideration your lab component. The prereqs definitely aren't cakework, so don't give up because of this one class. Good luck!

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Thanks everyone! I got through it! I got a C, but I was lucky to get that even. I took A&P1 and got a B, and A&P2 got an A!!! So I definitely surpassed my expectations! Now that I have one more to go, which is micro, and it is so much like chemistry, I am freaking out again! I freaked out alot through my A&Ps too. It's like a rollercoaster! I wish I didn't have anxiety issues. Anyway, I still have time to figure out this micro class, and HOPE to at least get a B, although I wanted an A, this one seems to be a nightmare, flashback to chem.

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