It’s no secret that nursing school is a challenging and sometimes stressful experience. It requires hard work and dedication to your education, but with the right tools and resources, it will be a rewarding experience. From creating a study plan to building a strong support system, these nine tips will help you succeed.
Keep reading to discover East Ohio College’s essential 9 tips for navigating the challenges of nursing school and setting yourself up for a successful academic experience!
1. Use A Planner
If you are a student who thrives by using lists and visual organization, a personal planner can be a great tool to help you stay organized! Having a planner to track your necessary tasks at your fingertips can help you better manage your time and remember important dates at a glance.
2. Set Clear Goals
Setting clear and attainable goals throughout your nursing education is crucial to helping you stay motivated and celebrate your accomplishments. We suggest using the SMART goals strategy, which guides you to achieve your larger goals by breaking them down into smaller, more manageable steps.
3. Stay Organized
Organization and multitasking are important parts of being a successful nurse, so developing these soft skills during your education is crucial. Registered nurses often work in very fast-paced environments, so they must be highly organized and pay close attention to detail. These skills will help you not only in your nursing career but also in your personal life.
4. Do The Work
An accelerated Nursing program is challenging but possible. Going into your education knowing that you have to put in an effort in order to be successful can help you understand what to expect. Coming to class and labs, reading the required materials, and completing your assignments will make a significant difference in your educational experience. Being well-prepared and ready to participate in hands-on training and discussions will enhance your learning experience and better prepare you for your nursing career.
5. Develop A Strong Routine
When embarking on the journey to becoming a nurse, it is crucial to develop a routine and stick to it. Balancing academics, personal, and work obligations can sometimes be tricky, but having a solid foundation can make this transition easier. Your routine should include allotted time for studying, attending classes and labs, and completing assignments. Additionally, it is essential to incorporate self-care activities and time spent with friends and family.
6. Join A Study Group
An excellent asset to helping you along your nursing journey is developing relationships with those on the same path as you: your classmates. Forming study groups with other students is a great way to practice hands-on components, study, gain different viewpoints, and build your professional network during your education.
7. Prioritize Self-Care
The demands of nursing school can sometimes make it challenging to find a balance between education and personal life. It is important to remember to take care of yourself and your well-being. Be sure to prioritize self-care, eat balanced meals, get enough sleep, and engage in a physical activity you enjoy. Remember, taking care of yourself is a necessity, not a luxury.
8. Ask For Help
If you are struggling with the demands of nursing school, remember that you are not alone. As an East Ohio College student, you have access to support services that can help you through academic and personal challenges. Establishing clear boundaries with family and friends throughout the educational process can help you not become overwhelmed with outside obligations during your time in school.
9. Keep A Positive Mindset
It is vital to keep a positive mindset during times of stress. When you feel overwhelmed with your academic responsibilities, consider why you want to become a nurse. Remember that this journey is a temporary step toward your dream career!
East Ohio College Is Here To Help You Navigate Nursing School!
We understand that the journey to becoming a registered nurse* can be difficult, so that’s why East Ohio College has dedicated itself to providing students with the support they need to get through challenging times.
Join the EOC family to further your nursing education! Get started today and speak to an admissions team member about your goals by calling 330-385-1070 or requesting information.
*Passing the NCLEX-RN exam is required to become a Registered Nurse.