what is a typical day like in an accelerated nursing program?

[Stanford]

Hi, I am applying to an accelerated nursing program for the Fall. I was wondering what a typical day/week is like for you? How do you manage classes/clinicals/studying/assignments? What are clinicals like? Anything you would like to add... I am just trying to get an idea of what a year of my life is going to be like so I can get prepared! Thanks!

[Chrissy Lou]

Organize, Organize, Organize! In my program, we have one class a month, the upside being that we only have to concentrate on that one particular class. Now that we are intermediate however, we only have class 2 days, and clinicals 2 days. That means classroom-wise, 4 days of material in 2, with a quiz or test each day we are in class. Daunting at first, but once you get the rhythm, it works. Our clinical homework is typical, careplans, drug sheets (they never end!), notes, assessments. Usually due the next day. I agree with the others, read every night, make note cards, find the best way for you! There is little time for anything social, and if you don't have to work, don't or maybe just one day to keep your foot in the door. I have 4 kids, and they have learned a lot with me, as far as what college is like and the work you have to put into it. I grab little moments with them whenever I can, and always remind them that this won't last forever! At times I have to remind myself that it won't last forever! Try to find positive people to surround yourself with. I am lucky in that I have met some wonderful women also coming back to school, and we support each other, yell at each other, cry on each others shoulders, and celebrate our achievements together. Hallmark sounding I know, but they are a great source of support. Yes it is tough, but I wouldn't have it any other way! I am so glad to finally be in school! Only a few more months to go!

[Bnono]

right now i have 2 clinical days a week and 2 lecture days a week...all from 7a-3:30p and then i usually go home and do anywhere from 4-6 hours of homework......i work fridays and saturdays.....if you live at home STAY THERE! if you have someone to support you it will be to your advantage....i dont work on sundays so i can have that whole day to get everything i need for my school week in order plus i usually have some kind of paper due...my nursing school pretty much told us the first day of the semester that if you have a job or a bf say good bye!...it is a huge challenge and i am constantly exhausted but its not too bad...i have learned that you just have to stay organized and it will all work out..but you will be amazed at how much you have to learn and how much you do learn....all the mothers in my class are my heros i have no idea how they do it!~