Single mom and nursing student

nursephillyphil, BSN, RN · Jul 4, 2017

Ive had multiple classmates in the same situation as you. As to how they did it? all i can think of is GRIT, sheer will and determination. You will be tired, but if you study efficiently then its very possible. My advice is to meet with your professors on day 1, develop that relationship and see if you can meet regularly to clarify things you don't understand and help you with areas you are weak in. Take advantage of the syllabus and stay organized. but most importantly: self care, you need sleep, exercise, and a good diet if you're going to make this work. Good luck to you and don't forget it IS possible :)

Trauma Columnist · Jul 4, 2017

Merged both threads

Esmith76 · Jul 4, 2017

Shayla, never be afraid to ask for help! You're so fortunate to have family nearby. My closest family lives about 1400 miles away I also bought a planner so I can look ahead at what I need to do. I'll still be working 40 hours so it'll be tough. And keep on praying, that's what I'm doing!

Shayla2019 · Jul 9, 2017

That's awesome, Congratulations! two of my classmates from Chemistry class got accepted as well. No I will be doing Rose morning classes. The hard thing about the schedule is theory will be Mon/Wed 11-1250 , clinicals Tuesdays 1430-2230 and lab Thursdays 8-11. I will have to figure in 32-36 hours of work around my school schedule..

Shayla2019 · Jul 9, 2017

To hear things like this really opens my mind and lets me know that it is possible. I will be the first person in my family to graduate college. that's of 9 kids my parents didn't graduate high school. I agree with you I need to take control and go to my professors for help or when I absolutely do not understand the material. I have had some people tell me I can work full time and go to nursing school on top of being a single mother.. crazy that some people say things like that. But I am excited about this journey and even more I will be glad once I finish to be able to be able to provide for my kids with out a struggle..

Shayla2019 · Jul 9, 2017

Wow, that is crazy.. I have even reached out to my close friends for a backup incase my family are not able to help out. I already know I wont have much of a social life but im content with that. Getting all the free and fun time out with myself and my kids now bc I will not be able to it during school. I am going to cut my hours down from 40 to 34-6.. it takes me longer to retain information so I need extra study time.

Esmith76 · Jul 9, 2017

I have faith we will do fine! Please keep in touch and let me know how you're doing. We are a rare bunch, single moms working full time and doing this nursing school thing. If you ever need an ear or shoulder, let me know! :)

Shayla2019 · Aug 7, 2017

Thank you sooo much for your encouragement and kind words :) I will definitely be in touch!

JillybeansRN2B, ADN, CNA, RN · Aug 8, 2017

I have three little ones, working full time on a modified schedule, and starting the nursing program the 21st as well! We will be fine!! It may take a little more out of us but we got this!

Shayla2019 · Aug 11, 2017

Congrats to you! I am starting to get some anxiety now that the time is getting close.. Good luck to you! :)

Cyara1991 · Aug 15, 2017

I am also a single mother of 2 and also work fulltime at a hospital. First semester was tough, but i got through it and made a B. Starting second semester next week. Time management is key! I had to really learn to manage my time. It is amazing how much time you have to complete tasks when you manage it well! Good luck in first semester, you're going to do great!

Shayla2019 · Sep 16, 2017

Got through my first month of nursing school, I failed my first exam and it really made me sad, im going to take that as a learning experience to do better the next exam! All i do is school, work and care for my kids. Im constantly behind on laundry and have to do quick meals it likes i just go non stop. Because I failed my first exam I have implemented even more room to study. This is so hard...