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What are some tips for beginning nursing school?
Where do I start in order to study for the nursing career and what steps should I take first.
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6 answers
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Hailey’s Answer
My best advice would be to gain a CNA certification prior to nursing school. Most programs require one these days and you gain a better respect for that position. Focus most on science and math during schooling.
Updated
Martin’s Answer
We've chatted about this topic quite a bit before, so feel free to revisit some of our past discussions. My advice? Focus on subjects that spark your interest, like science, math, or psychology. And remember, if you have the chance to volunteer, go for it! It's a wonderful opportunity.
Updated
Dawn’s Answer
Hello, Martha!
This is a great question! I asked myself that same question when looking at nursing programs. I graduated high school with a diploma before returning to college 10 years later and didn't know where to begin.
There are a few questions to consider first. How soon do you want to start working as a nurse? Does affordability matter to you? How much time and money do you want to spend in school before working as a nurse? This answer is different for everyone.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs are affordable and roughly 14-18 months long if you want to start working as a nurse faster. There are also 2-year and 4-year Registered Nurse (RN) programs.
Depending on whether you are seeking a 2-year or 4-year nursing degree, you want to start by seeing what schools you are interested in offer nursing programs. The programs usually require what they call, prerequisite courses, which are courses/classes you would need to take to be able to apply for the nursing program you are looking to enter. I am unsure if a 4-year program includes these prerequisites as part of their curriculum, as I went into a 2-year program to start. Either way, programs will state what their requirements are to apply.
With any of these choices, you want to ensure that the program you attend is 'accredited'.
"Nursing accreditation is the process of an independent, nongovernment peer review of a nursing program by an established authority. During this peer review, the accrediting organization reviews all aspects of a program to determine if its graduates are qualified to pass the RN examination (NCLEX) and practice as nurses."
"Accreditation signals to financial aid institutions and prospective students that the nursing program prepares students for future success in their career. Accreditation also protects employers and the public, because it ensures that graduates meet national professional standards required to work in their field."
Speaking for myself, I went back to college at age 27 looking for an accredited, affordable program because I continued working part-time while in school. I also wanted to start working sooner and entered my hometown's 2-year community college nursing program, which was very competitive with the surrounding university programs, and less expensive. Initially, I graduated with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) before returning later to obtain my Bacchalurette Degree in Nursing (BSN). In a 4-year program, you would graduate with a BSN right away.
The steps I took to start:
1. Looking at the nursing program and the courses I needed to enter the program. They usually have them listed under the program, and the college I attended required a grade of C or better in those classes to be considered to apply to the program.
2. Took those courses: English, Math, Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology, Biology, and Microbiology. These may differ where you are and in your program/school of choice. Some programs now require students to take Statistics or other courses, again, this depends on the program you want to apply to.
3. I worked very hard to maintain a grade point average (GPA) of 3.8 for those courses so I would not need to repeat classes to satisfy their grade requirements and be accepted into the program immediately.
4. After taking the prerequisites, I applied to the program and was accepted.
I was also a certified nursing assistant (CNA) for many years before nursing school which also helped me decide if I wanted to pursue a nursing degree. I learned many skills as a CNA that would carry over throughout my nursing career.
I hope this helped!
This is a great question! I asked myself that same question when looking at nursing programs. I graduated high school with a diploma before returning to college 10 years later and didn't know where to begin.
There are a few questions to consider first. How soon do you want to start working as a nurse? Does affordability matter to you? How much time and money do you want to spend in school before working as a nurse? This answer is different for everyone.
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) programs are affordable and roughly 14-18 months long if you want to start working as a nurse faster. There are also 2-year and 4-year Registered Nurse (RN) programs.
Depending on whether you are seeking a 2-year or 4-year nursing degree, you want to start by seeing what schools you are interested in offer nursing programs. The programs usually require what they call, prerequisite courses, which are courses/classes you would need to take to be able to apply for the nursing program you are looking to enter. I am unsure if a 4-year program includes these prerequisites as part of their curriculum, as I went into a 2-year program to start. Either way, programs will state what their requirements are to apply.
With any of these choices, you want to ensure that the program you attend is 'accredited'.
"Nursing accreditation is the process of an independent, nongovernment peer review of a nursing program by an established authority. During this peer review, the accrediting organization reviews all aspects of a program to determine if its graduates are qualified to pass the RN examination (NCLEX) and practice as nurses."
"Accreditation signals to financial aid institutions and prospective students that the nursing program prepares students for future success in their career. Accreditation also protects employers and the public, because it ensures that graduates meet national professional standards required to work in their field."
Speaking for myself, I went back to college at age 27 looking for an accredited, affordable program because I continued working part-time while in school. I also wanted to start working sooner and entered my hometown's 2-year community college nursing program, which was very competitive with the surrounding university programs, and less expensive. Initially, I graduated with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) before returning later to obtain my Bacchalurette Degree in Nursing (BSN). In a 4-year program, you would graduate with a BSN right away.
The steps I took to start:
1. Looking at the nursing program and the courses I needed to enter the program. They usually have them listed under the program, and the college I attended required a grade of C or better in those classes to be considered to apply to the program.
2. Took those courses: English, Math, Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology, Biology, and Microbiology. These may differ where you are and in your program/school of choice. Some programs now require students to take Statistics or other courses, again, this depends on the program you want to apply to.
3. I worked very hard to maintain a grade point average (GPA) of 3.8 for those courses so I would not need to repeat classes to satisfy their grade requirements and be accepted into the program immediately.
4. After taking the prerequisites, I applied to the program and was accepted.
I was also a certified nursing assistant (CNA) for many years before nursing school which also helped me decide if I wanted to pursue a nursing degree. I learned many skills as a CNA that would carry over throughout my nursing career.
I hope this helped!
Updated
Megan’s Answer
Hello Martha,
A big round of applause for deciding on nursing as your career path! It's a well-known fact that nursing school can be quite demanding, and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) often ranks as one of the most challenging undergraduate degrees. However, remember that the BSN isn't the only route to becoming a nurse, and all nursing programs have their own set of challenges.
Your first task is to determine your starting point. Are you aiming to become a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Associate Degree Nurse (ADN), or a Bachelor of Science Nurse (BSN)? If you're looking beyond bedside nursing, I'd suggest heading straight for your BSN. It's a tough road, but it's worth it to get it done and dusted.
Next, you'll need to pick the right school for you. Research their nursing program, ensure it's accredited, and compare the costs. Be ready for a demanding schedule filled with classes, study sessions, and clinical practice. But remember, it's essential to carve out some time for yourself to avoid burnout. Don't let school consume your entire life.
One of the best pieces of advice I received when I started my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) was to keep in mind what truly matters to me. Family, friends, and school should be your priority. Don't stress about chores like cleaning or laundry; they can wait. They're not crucial in the grand scheme of things.
Lastly, try to avoid watching the news. It often portrays the world in a negative light, and you'll encounter enough challenging situations in your clinicals and nursing career. You don't need additional negativity. Remember, you'll also experience plenty of joyful moments in your career.
I hope this advice is helpful and I wish you all the best in your nursing school journey!
A big round of applause for deciding on nursing as your career path! It's a well-known fact that nursing school can be quite demanding, and the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) often ranks as one of the most challenging undergraduate degrees. However, remember that the BSN isn't the only route to becoming a nurse, and all nursing programs have their own set of challenges.
Your first task is to determine your starting point. Are you aiming to become a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA), Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), Associate Degree Nurse (ADN), or a Bachelor of Science Nurse (BSN)? If you're looking beyond bedside nursing, I'd suggest heading straight for your BSN. It's a tough road, but it's worth it to get it done and dusted.
Next, you'll need to pick the right school for you. Research their nursing program, ensure it's accredited, and compare the costs. Be ready for a demanding schedule filled with classes, study sessions, and clinical practice. But remember, it's essential to carve out some time for yourself to avoid burnout. Don't let school consume your entire life.
One of the best pieces of advice I received when I started my Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) was to keep in mind what truly matters to me. Family, friends, and school should be your priority. Don't stress about chores like cleaning or laundry; they can wait. They're not crucial in the grand scheme of things.
Lastly, try to avoid watching the news. It often portrays the world in a negative light, and you'll encounter enough challenging situations in your clinicals and nursing career. You don't need additional negativity. Remember, you'll also experience plenty of joyful moments in your career.
I hope this advice is helpful and I wish you all the best in your nursing school journey!
Updated
Sharie’s Answer
Hi Martha, starting nursing school is a significant and exciting step towards a rewarding career in healthcare. To ensure you are well-prepared, here are some essential steps to consider before you begin your nursing education:
1. Research Nursing Programs
Accreditation: Ensure the nursing schools you are considering are accredited by relevant bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Program Fit: Look for programs that match your career goals, whether it's an ADN, BSN, or direct-entry MSN program.
Cost and Location: Consider the tuition costs, availability of financial aid, and the location of the school in relation to your residence.
2. Meet Prerequisite Requirements
Coursework: Complete necessary prerequisite courses, which typically include subjects like biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and sometimes psychology or sociology.
GPA: Maintain a strong GPA, as nursing programs can be competitive.
3. Gain Healthcare Experience
Volunteer or Work: Gain experience by volunteering or working in a healthcare setting. This could be in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities. Such experience is invaluable and sometimes a requirement for admission.
4. Prepare for and Take the Entrance Exams
TEAS or HESI: Many nursing programs require scores from the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) or the Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) exam. Prepare thoroughly for these exams to enhance your chances of admission.
5. Apply to Multiple Schools
Safety and Reach Schools: Apply to a mix of schools, including both those where admission is likely and some that may be more of a reach.
Application Materials: Prepare your application carefully, including your transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and any other required documents.
6. Understand the Commitment
Time Management: Recognize the time commitment that nursing school requires. It often demands a significant amount of reading, studying, and hands-on training.
Lifestyle Changes: Prepare for lifestyle adjustments to accommodate your study schedule and clinical rotations.
7. Connect with Current Students and Faculty
Networking: Reach out to current students and faculty in the programs you are interested in to gain insights into the curriculum, the teaching style, and student life.
8. Prepare Mentally and Physically
Health: Ensure your health is a priority. Get physical check-ups, update immunizations, and prepare for the physical demands of the profession.
Mental Preparation: Nursing school can be stressful, so developing good coping mechanisms and stress management techniques will be beneficial.
By following these steps, you can prepare for the challenges and rewards of nursing school. This preparation will not only ease your transition into nursing education but also lay a strong foundation for your future career.
I wish you the best in your journey!
1. Research Nursing Programs
Accreditation: Ensure the nursing schools you are considering are accredited by relevant bodies such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) or the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Program Fit: Look for programs that match your career goals, whether it's an ADN, BSN, or direct-entry MSN program.
Cost and Location: Consider the tuition costs, availability of financial aid, and the location of the school in relation to your residence.
2. Meet Prerequisite Requirements
Coursework: Complete necessary prerequisite courses, which typically include subjects like biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and sometimes psychology or sociology.
GPA: Maintain a strong GPA, as nursing programs can be competitive.
3. Gain Healthcare Experience
Volunteer or Work: Gain experience by volunteering or working in a healthcare setting. This could be in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities. Such experience is invaluable and sometimes a requirement for admission.
4. Prepare for and Take the Entrance Exams
TEAS or HESI: Many nursing programs require scores from the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) or the Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) exam. Prepare thoroughly for these exams to enhance your chances of admission.
5. Apply to Multiple Schools
Safety and Reach Schools: Apply to a mix of schools, including both those where admission is likely and some that may be more of a reach.
Application Materials: Prepare your application carefully, including your transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and any other required documents.
6. Understand the Commitment
Time Management: Recognize the time commitment that nursing school requires. It often demands a significant amount of reading, studying, and hands-on training.
Lifestyle Changes: Prepare for lifestyle adjustments to accommodate your study schedule and clinical rotations.
7. Connect with Current Students and Faculty
Networking: Reach out to current students and faculty in the programs you are interested in to gain insights into the curriculum, the teaching style, and student life.
8. Prepare Mentally and Physically
Health: Ensure your health is a priority. Get physical check-ups, update immunizations, and prepare for the physical demands of the profession.
Mental Preparation: Nursing school can be stressful, so developing good coping mechanisms and stress management techniques will be beneficial.
By following these steps, you can prepare for the challenges and rewards of nursing school. This preparation will not only ease your transition into nursing education but also lay a strong foundation for your future career.
I wish you the best in your journey!
Updated
Crystal’s Answer
Volunteering or shadowing in a hospital or clinic is a great way to see firsthand what nurses do everyday. Also, some healthcare systems offer medical career camps in the summer that allow you visit multiple departments within the hospital, like physical therapy, laboratory, respiratory, and pharmacy. If your high school offers career days, take advantage of that time to ask questions and gain information about classes and tips on how to apply to nursing programs. They may also give you information on scholarship opportunities.