how to be a supportive BF to the GF in nursing school?

[medic4]

Nurses and nursing students!

So my new girlfriend and I happened to find each other during her break in between semesters and we have really hit it off. She is worried that we might not make it due to her studies and work. As a paramedic, I completely understand and I realize exactly how school in the medical field requires nothing short of dedication and focus.

I have explained to her that I will be here to support her in every way possible and try to help as much as I can, but I (we) have never been in this situation before. I know I will see her very little in this coming year. I know if we make it through this, we'll be good for the long run. thankfully I like working and have many friends which will help me keep busy while she is studying

So my question....How do I be the supportive BF that is a help and not a distraction?

Thanks,

Medic 4

[Hygiene Queen]

Always remind yourself of what it was like for you.

Keep that in perspective.

Study with her, if you can. It shows support, gives you time together and you can actively help her achieve her goal.

I think people can sometimes take the partners lack of time as a personal rejection or an excuse.

Or course, it's not.

That student probably fantasizes about being with you and not having to study, but they have their priorities straight!

That's a good thing!

[Bob_N_VA]

I think to your credit you already answered your own question. School requires a huge commitment on her part, a social life is a nice add-on. Since you are already in the field, you can help her with studies or being her test subject when she needs to practice assessment skills. You can also be her biggest fan and cheerleader, we all need one of those from time to time. This can be a good time for you both to grow together.

Good Luck.

[mermcm83]

I agree, I think you are already being supportive. The fact that you know what to expect, and have already made plans to keep yourself busy and let her do her thing, all the while being there if and when she needs you is Awesome! Now could you talk to my boyfriend who has no clue what Im going through, and is still demanding tooooo much attention...lol seriously

[butterfly134]

Just make sure that she has time to study and I think you already know that but also make sure that if she needs time to herself or just her girlfriends, you give her that space too, its important :) Don't worry though she might just mention ''oh the girls are going to the cinema/going out/having a movie nite in/etc '' and she will either say she is going or imply that she wants to go and you should give her that space :) Send her the odd txt to tell her that you are there for her so she feels the support even when she can't see you and just give her a hug if shes feeling stressed out about either clinicals or exams. Just be there for each other! Best of luck :)

[tech1000]

I think you got it. My boyfriend was somewhat supportive, but I don't think he ever realized how much work it really was. He broke up with me right after boards, basically because of my lack of attention to him during school. All you can do is be there for her!

[my2girlskk.]

I seriously think its sweet that you took the time to write this post. It seems like you are already a very supportive person and kind of know what to expect. Nursing school is her number one priority during the time she has left, but that doesn't mean you guys wont work out. Maybe you guys could make it a point to have at least one day for each other a month, scheduled at times she doesn't have an exam. I also agree it would be awesome support to help her study if you can. Just make sure she's actually studying during the time you're helping her and make sure she stays on track. I hope it works out for you because if she wasn't important to you, you wouldn't have taken the time to research this. Good luck!