Getting into nursing school is a challenge in itself, but now that you have been accepted, you are ready to start on a long but rewarding journey towards a new and exciting career in medicine.To master the material, be sure to study in advance and go to class on time.If you can, volunteer and participate in clinicals.To get through nursing school on top, you have to keep your personal life and education balanced.You can succeed in nursing school if you have time management and study skills.
Step 1: You should buy your books and supplies ahead of time.
As a nursing student, you need to get started as soon as possible.Ensure you have the required textbooks for your classes, purchase a backpack or messenger bag, and stock up on pens, highlighters and notebooks.Most clinical sessions require a stethoscope, a watch with a second hand, and scrubs.If you can, get your supplies at least a week before your semester starts.All of the required textbooks may not be in stock if you wait until the semester begins.As you wait for the book, you may get behind in your schoolwork.If you want to get all your reading at an affordable price, look for secondhand books on sites like eBay and Amazon.Determine what additional supplies you need for each class by taking a look at your course outline.You should check with your school to see what kind of scrubs you need.Some schools may require you to get scrubs with their logo on them, while others may let you pick any scrubs.
Step 2: To keep track of exams, assignments, and important dates, use a Planner.
As soon as you receive your syllabus, record all of your homework assignments, exams, and important dates in a monthly planner to help you manage your workload.Record the assignments and dates for each of your classes, and consider color-coding the planner by class or level of assignment.Once the semester starts, you can get overwhelmed by all of the due dates and exams.You can color-code your planners so they correspond to red, blue, green, and orange.You can get a sense of what to expect in the upcoming semester by recording your workload during syllabus week.If you want to plan a trip home to see your family in between your exams, you can easily skim through the planners to find a date.You can use aplanner notebook, binder, or cell phone app.
Step 3: You can prioritize your work by writing daily "To-Do" lists.
You can assess what you need to get done in a single week by looking at the assignments for the upcoming week.Write the tasks in order of importance.You can focus on one thing at a time if you do this.Write "To do - Monday: Study for an anatomy quiz from 10 to noon, read course materials from noon to 2, clinical from 3 to 5 pm, finish laundry, grocery shop, meal prep."
Step 4: You can get a study guide to help you with the classes.
You can use the study guide to help you learn the material.Key material is broken down in this supplementary book.You can complete the practice quizzes in the book if you read over the sections that correspond with your schoolwork.You can study for both the classwork and the test at the same time.Knowing that you will have to take the test in the future can help you feel more confident.The section in your study guide that covers the same key topics can be found after you finish reading.You can expand your knowledge by comparing your notes with the information in the study guide.
Step 5: As soon as possible, complete your prerequisites.
Prerequisite classes prepare you for the bulk of your nursing studies.Basic math, English, and science classes can be included.The more difficult classes require you to complete these first, so schedule them early in your studies.You can complete your prerequisites at community colleges if you are in the US.Prerequisite classes include biology, statistics, and introduction to psychology.You can take your prerequisites at a local university if you want to go for a master's degree in nursing.Most community college credits can be transferred to 4-year schools.
Step 6: You can learn the material in small sections if you study each day.
In nursing school, you will take courses in biology, chemistry, and biology.You can't cram the information right before the exam, so be sure to spend a few hours each day reviewing the material your professor is covering in class.You will retain more information if you do this.If you want to master the material, you need to read over the notes you take in class.Go back and read the section or chapter if you're not sure.You can find a study pattern that works for you.Some people are comfortable sitting down for a few hours at a time to read, while others take smaller breaks between each chapter.Use the method that works best for your learning style.
Step 7: On time, finish the assignments and read the material.
If you keep a note of your due dates in your planner, you can always complete your homework.You should read over all of the material assigned to you.You will fall behind in class if you don't complete your assignments on time or skip over the assigned reading material.You can either turn in your assignments online or in person.
Step 8: Don't distract yourself as you work so you can focus.
If you're studying at home or in class, turn off your cell phone and TV.If you choose study music without lyrics, you will be less distracted.It's a good idea to organize your study space before you start.You can improve your study habits by focusing on only your studies.You are more likely to finish your work if you eliminate distraction.You can use an episode of your favorite program as a reward when you finish your studying goals.
Step 9: If you are struggling, reach out to your professors.
There is a lot of information to learn in a short amount of time, which makes nursing school difficult.If you don't understand a concept or feel overwhelmed with work, ask your instructor for help.Your professor can help you with difficult concepts or offer study tips.If the circulatory system is giving you trouble, you can go to your professor's office hours and ask them to review the system again.Do not wait until you are overwhelmed or do poorly on the exam to get help.You can stay ahead of your studies if you participate in study groups, writing workshops, and library programming.
Step 10: Be attentive to the demonstrations.
The clinical portion of your studies gives you the chance to use the information you learned in class.Pay attention to the demonstrations and ask the questions that come to you.You can show your commitment and desire to learn by being active in discussions.As your professor figures out which vein to draw blood from, watch closely.Ask your instructor for suggestions about which vein to choose.You should move to a position where you can see the demonstration.
Step 11: When your professor asks for help, volunteer.
Since you apply your knowledge in real-time scenarios, volunteering during clinical is a great way to develop your nursing abilities.You may be hesitant at first, but get some courage and go for it!In class and in the lab, use as many opportunities as you can to practice nursing techniques.Someone may be asked to demonstrate taking a patient's temperature.Show the class your understanding of this basic nursing skill by raising your hand.
Step 12: If you want more practice, go back to the lab after the clinicals.
You can get more hands-on feedback from your professors if you visit the lab after your clinical time.You can ask your instructors questions, get more practice time, and interact with patients.If you are confused about class material or need extra help before a big exam, this is a great idea.This shows your dedication to your professors and patients.
Step 13: You can get support from other nursing students by befriending them.
You can get support and encouragement from other nursing students who know the struggles of nursing school.Before and after class, introduce yourself to others and ask them where they are from, what they like about nursing, and why they chose this profession.If you befriend other nursing students, they may be able to offer you helpful study tips, words of encouragement, or a listening ear.If you or one of your friends have to miss a class, you can help each other with notes and study sessions.
Step 14: Study parties are a great way to learn from other students.
Go over your class material with a group of nursing friends.Everyone can keep each other focused and accountable if they study in a group.The other students can help you understand certain topics.Study parties help you prepare for exams.This is a great way to stay in touch with your friends.When you are in a study group, you can come up with ideas that help you memorize.You can play study games and practice with flashcards.
Step 15: You can squeeze in extracurricular activities if you manage your free time.
You will have a tight schedule as a nursing student.If your schedule allows it, set aside time for your hobbies or leisure activities even if it is only for a short time.You can join a club, play soccer, read a book, or volunteer with this time.You may have to delay your favorite activities until after the semester ends if your schedule doesn't permit it.To focus on each week, be sure to find some things outside of school.Even if you only have 20 minutes a day to exercise, it can be a great way to take your mind off your studies.
Step 16: You don't want to get burnt out when you take breaks.
You need to pace yourself as you go through nursing school because it is not a sprint.A study break could include grabbing lunch with your friends, stretching for 5-15 minutes, or moving to a new study location.A change of scenery can help reset your focus.For example, if you want to veg out in front of the TV, keep in mind that your break should be brief enough for you to get all of your work done.