Working and going to Nursing School

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I am looking for some good advice. I am in a position where I will have to work at least 20 hours a week if not more to live and go to Nursing School. I know everyone says not to do it but we all know that this is not always possible.

I did work full time the entire time I did my pre-reqs and always made better grades it seemed than the students that did not work at all. I am very focused and determined.

I would really appreciate any input from those who have made it this way!

Thanks!

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Specializes in Peds Cardiology,Peds Neuro,Pedi ER,PICU, IV Jedi.

Hi ga girl...

Bottom line here is that you do what you have to do. All of us understand having to work to make the ends meet, and yet we have to do enough academically to make the grade...it's a delicate balance, one that will probably take some serious decisions. If you're doing well in school and feel comfortable doing more at work - try it! If you're feeling overwhelmed, just do the best you can...solicit help from instructors, study groups, et cetera.

Best of luck to you!!

vamedic4

I am looking for some good advice. I am in a position where I will have to work at least 20 hours a week if not more to live and go to Nursing School. I know everyone says not to do it but we all know that this is not always possible.

I did work full time the entire time I did my pre-reqs and always made better grades it seemed than the students that did not work at all. I am very focused and determined.

I would really appreciate any input from those who have made it this way!

Thanks!

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I am in the same boat. Don't have a choice - need to work to pay rent, bills, etc. Good luck to both of us!

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Look into nursing "extern" positions. You would be killing 2 birds with 1 stone - learning nursing, and getting paid.

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I worked throughout nursing school, it can be done. I worked as a CNA on the 11-7 shift. After I passed medsurg, I was upgraded to a "nurse tech" and helped with dressing changes, also made $3 more an hour. I was able to earn a lot of valuable experience in my job, made it a lot easier to transition into the world of nursing upon graduation.

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I start nursing school in August and I will be working almost full time. I have alot of flexibility. I have been there so long, I have the job down to a science and need to be there more to supervise. I find that I am more organized and I don't have time to mess around. I have set study and work times. My commute is almost and hour. I tape lectures and listen to them in the car. I seem to be more prepared then other students. It is all in what you have to do. When I took nursing readiness the instructor told us to get all our housework done before the semester starts and clean again when it ends.

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I worked a full-time job and went to nursing school. It was hard...but it can be done!! I was always prepared for school....just set priorities, and take some time to just VEG out..for mental health reasons!!;)

And...I graduated 1st in my class...with honors!

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thanks for all the great advice!! It is sooooo nice to know I am not alone in all of this! I am getting so nervous!!!

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