I am 32 years old. I was always interested in nursing, but when I graduated High School it was a decision - nursing, which I did not have the grades for (hey, we're all stupid when we're 17) or the job I was offered at the time, working for a record company.
Guess which one I took?:)
I worked in the music biz for 7 years. I loved it, the artistic temperaments, the perks, but not the pay! Minimum wage for 70 hour weeks....it was tough. I couldn't afford to eat properly. I packed it all in five years ago and now work full time in the Transportation industry, doing payroll for a trucking company. While I love my job, and I like to think I'm good at it, I can't really "do" anything - I don't have a piece of paper like my husband, saying you ARE somebody. I know that sounds silly.
I have recently been looking into going back to school. I can't quit my full time job - no money. But I can become an RPN at night school. It will take three years, and I've missed the deadline to apply this September - but I have signed up for two of the credits (psychology and Health writing skills). So I suppose I will be a bit ahead next year. I toyed with it all year after having a FABULOUS nurse when I had surgery last year. She was amazing. She listened to everything I said (or mumbled) and fought for my comfort with the surgeon (who I don't think cared if I was alive). She was an inspiration, I want to BE her....I want to make that kind of difference to someone. These days the only appreciation I get is when a truck driver picks up his paycheque!
Here is my dilemma. I am terrified. I was never a good student. I excelled at things I was interested in (English, arts, Biology) but was a disaster at anything mathematical. I haven't been in school in over 12 years. I am so scared of failing.
Finally, after years of "floating" off in employment neverland, I have finally found what I really want to do, and I am so scared I won't be able to do it!
I am actively searching for a math tutor to prepare me for the entrance exam, I have applied to be a volunteer at the hospital around the corner from my house, what else can I do to boost my confidence? I have contacted the college I am planning to attend, but it is very large and impersonal.
It's not that I compare myself to my hubby, and he certainly doesn't make me feel bad about myself - he is my biggest supporter - it's just that I was never able to afford college (also lots of drama on the homefront!) and I really feel a bit sad when I see his framed diploma on the wall.
Yes, I do a lot of math, but it's with a computer and calculator!
Don't let fear and doubt keep you from following your dreams. 95% of success in school is desire and perseverence. You have suceeded in your previous jobs which is a good indication that you will be successful in nursing school too. And remember you don't have to be a straight A student to be an excellent nurse! Your response to the nurse that inspired you shows you understand the essence of good nursing...so go for it! And about that math. Start out with the basics and move along. Even if you have to repeat a class or two...do it. It will be so worth it. Keep us updated and good luck!
Worthy, do you know what they call the person that graduates at the bottom of their class in medical school? DOCTOR. But really , it sounds like you are doing this right, taking 2 prereqs now is a good start. If this is something you really want, you can do it! Surround yourself with positive people that will encourage you.(like here at allnurses!) Good luck, keep us informed on what's going on with you. zudy:)
I am meeting with a potential tutor tonight and she will want to know what I want to learn, I am sure!
She is not a nurse, but is affordable (Free! Friend of husband) and is an advanced high school math teacher.
Since some days I feel my math is at grade 3 level, I figured she could help me get a head start.
Forgot to mention - Worthy is my horse's name. I figure I will have no problem with the "gore" quota of nursing - I give IM shots to her, vet visits, witnessed surgeries etc on other horses - people can't be much different, right?!? (kidding).
Also have a diabetic cat!!! Syringes are my life Never wanted to be a vet though. I love my horse, but animals can't say thank you, nor tell you what is wrong.
Wow, I'm so glad I found this bb...just goes to show you what a search on MSN can find you!
You should get a book on dimensional analysis (the factor method I think is the old name). They have two I have heard of "Math and Meds for Nursing" and "Dimensional Analysis for Meds".
Frankly, algebra may help a bit but these books will teach you all you need to know without the extra stuff you don't need to know. The books start out with a review of the basic math that you will need, so all the stuff from the beginning is right there.
You will need conversions from metric, apothecary, avoir du pois. Memorize the conversions first, because you can't do the math problems without them. You will need to know fractions and decimal conversions. Either of these books will go over that as well as all the abbreviations and lingo.
Perhaps you should contact the program you plan on entering and find out which text they use?
I was an awful student in high school, when I went...lol. When I decided to go back to school to be a nurse I was so very scared of the math. I decided to face my fears head on and take all my math first and get it over with. WOW, Its amazing as an adult how much easier it is . Its all in desire. If you want this.... it will happen. I found out I was doing this stuff every day and diddn't even know it. Not only did I actually enjoy math I aced it and suprised my self. The fact that you are worrying about it and already taking steps to learn more shows you will succeed.
Good luck and remember you always have all of us here if you need help! If you have any questions once you start the math courses PM me and mabie I can help ya!!!
You might also try starting in developmental math classes. I did that and gradually worked my way up to college algebra. Glad I did! I would have been lost There!!!
Never wanted to be a vet though. I love my horse, but animals can't say thank you, nor tell you what is wrong. 
Worthy
93 Posts
Thank you, everybody.
It's not that I compare myself to my hubby, and he certainly doesn't make me feel bad about myself - he is my biggest supporter - it's just that I was never able to afford college (also lots of drama on the homefront!) and I really feel a bit sad when I see his framed diploma on the wall.
Yes, I do a lot of math, but it's with a computer and calculator!
Thanks again for the support.