Nursing Student vs Nursing Extern

Beyond just comparing the specific roles of a nursing student and a nurse extern, many of you might be wondering about the bigger picture: what are the actual pros and cons of pursuing a nursing career, especially from a student's perspective? From what I've experienced so far, it’s a mix of incredibly rewarding moments and significant challenges. The Pros of a Nursing Career (from a Student's View) One of the biggest advantages is the profound impact you get to have on people's lives. Even as a student, assisting with patient care, practicing skills like starting IVs, or helping with foley insertion, you see the direct difference you make. It's incredibly fulfilling. There's also the constant learning; every day brings new scenarios, new patients, and new knowledge, which keeps things exciting. Nursing also offers fantastic job security and a wide variety of work roles, from acute care to community health, once you complete your clinical classes. The hands-on experience as a nursing student or extern builds immense confidence, preparing you for the realities of the profession long before you graduate. The Cons of a Nursing Career (Truthfully) On the flip side, nursing school and the career itself are demanding. The academic load is heavy, requiring deep dives into complex subjects. Balancing studies with work, like my PRN schedule, can be tough. Emotionally, it can be draining; you'll encounter difficult situations and heartbreaking moments. Physically, the job is rigorous, often involving long shifts on your feet. However, I truly believe these challenges build resilience and make you a stronger, more compassionate individual. What Classes Do You Take for Nursing? Speaking of academic rigor, a common question is, 'what classes do you have to take for nursing?' While every program is different, you'll definitely delve into foundational sciences like Anatomy, Physiology, Microbiology, and Pharmacology. These courses provide the essential knowledge base for understanding patient conditions and treatments. Then, you move into core nursing courses, which integrate theory with practice, directly feeding into your clinical class completion requirements. These are the classes where you'll begin to apply what you've learned in simulations and eventually, real patient care environments, practicing the very skills I mentioned like IVs and foley insertions. The Value of Early Experience: CNA Licenses & Beyond For many, the journey into nursing starts even before nursing school. Obtaining your CNA license is often a crucial step. This isn't just a requirement; it provides fundamental patient care experience that helps you ace your clinicals and makes you a strong candidate for nursing student or extern positions. It introduces you to various work roles within a healthcare setting and helps you understand patient needs and hospital routines. This early exposure helps bridge the gap between classroom theory and the practical 'nursing work index' you'll encounter, making the transition smoother and boosting your confidence significantly.