The honest side of nursing school
As I start my fourth semester of nursing school, I want to share some advice I saw plenty of but didn't see enough of at the same time.
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1. There are so many study tips online—ChatGPT, flashcards, reading the textbook, active recall, memorization, and more—that it can become overwhelming. Every time I watch a video on the best study methods for nursing school, I get frustrated because it seems like you’re doing all these things but not seeing results. My best advice is to try different techniques for each exam and see which works best for you, especially in your first semester. You might have to take risks or burn out quickly if you try everything at once. -
2. Clinicals are definitely not the same every time. Each clinical experience can be different—different nurses, patients, and cases. Some days you'll have so much to learn and do, and other days it’s so slow you want to rip your hair out. Just do your best even on the slower days; ask a nurse a question or find something new to learn.
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3. You don’t need every single item you see in nursing school supply haul videos. There are things I bought in my first semester I’ve only used once, and I’m glad I didn’t buy everything in those videos. Some schools give you a list of required supplies before classes start—just follow that list. If you know someone who’s already been to nursing school, ask them what you really need instead of relying on videos from first-timers.
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4. Take your downtime seriously. Even if I didn’t feel stressed, my body showed signs—like the acne I saw more of than ever. I wish I could share pictures, but I’m too embarrassed. On your days off, sleep if you need to. Don’t make your days off just catch-up days for everything you need to do. Be slow and purposeful on those days. It’s understandable that people work to survive, so when you get the chance to slow down, take it.
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5. You'll fall behind in at least one area, like the gym, eating, or self-care, no matter how much you try to hold on. It's okay to struggle through this phase. You might think you can handle everything, but exhaustion will hit, and breaks may last longer. Ensure that what you fall behind in isn’t what helps you self-regulate. If you’re Christian, keep God first, and hold onto your beliefs for strength. Remember your 'why'—whether it's providing a better life for your kids, yourself or your parents—as you navigate this tough time.
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This was a lot but I hope you made time to read and I hope it was helpful. If anyone has any other advice to give incoming nursing students, please drop them. Have a lovely day and I wish you all the best.
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#BackToSchool #lemon8challenge #nursingstudenttips #nursingstudent #nursing school
Nursing school is a demanding journey that requires more than just academic knowledge—it requires resilience, adaptability, and self-awareness. As highlighted, "What works for that influencer you follow, may not work for you," emphasizing the need for personalized study strategies. Many students feel overwhelmed by the variety of study techniques available, including ChatGPT-assisted learning, flashcards, active recall, and memorization. To succeed, it’s crucial to experiment with different methods for each exam and identify what aligns best with your learning style, especially during your initial semesters. Clinicals present a dynamic and often unpredictable environment. Each day differs due to varying nurses, patient cases, and ward activities, making some days intensely educational and others unexpectedly slow. Taking initiative during slower periods—by asking questions or seeking knowledge—can maximize learning and keep motivation high. Remember, "Clinicals are not created equally; every day will be different," so cultivating flexibility is vital. Another critical insight is to avoid unnecessary expenses on nursing school supplies. Many students get caught up in "essential supplies haul" videos, but often only a few items are genuinely needed. Following your institution’s supply list or consulting experienced students can prevent overspending and clutter. Downtime is often underestimated, but its impact on physical and mental health is significant. Stress can manifest in subtle ways, such as increased acne or fatigue, even if not immediately felt. Prioritizing rest on days off—sleeping adequately and allowing yourself to slow down—is essential for recovery and sustained performance. This aligns with the advice to "take your downtime very seriously." Lastly, it is common to fall behind in areas like fitness, nutrition, or self-care during nursing school. Granting yourself patience and grace during these times helps manage burnout. Maintaining a sense of purpose or faith can provide emotional strength, reminding you of your "why," whether supporting loved ones or pursuing personal growth. Embracing these realities with honesty and compassion fosters a healthier, more successful nursing school experience. For incoming students, understanding these elements—personalized study, clinical variability, essential supplies, essential self-care, and realistic expectations—will better prepare them to navigate the challenges ahead.
These arw great tips! Thanks for sharing! Breaking homework into smaller chunks helps you stay focused and makes assignments feel less overwhelming to finish.