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what are some notes I can take about nursing school as a freshman in high school
I am an freshman in Riverdale high school and I am looking forward in life and through high school to be a nurse and be in nursing school
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6 answers
Updated
Lucy’s Answer
Hello.... nursing student here, my advice to you is please volunteer at a hospital or clinic thats close by you. Why? Because that will help you see the true day to day life of nursing staff...it will also put a picture in your mind if going to nursing school is really what you would like to do...the other thing is discipline ... nursing school is not for the weak and the way you will leave your lie will change and you will have to survive your time and other things just to keep up with classes and passing those classes, organising and good time management needed to become your bestie....why? Because it's going to be demanding of you to put in the work. The other most important thing is having true passion if you don't trust me don't do it...you need to love the stressful part and the good part..which is helping those in need wether they appropriate it or not if that love, passion is not there e ...you will burnout.... Therefore you can watch day in the life vlogs of real registered nurses on YouTube my personal favourites are ( Penny Tovor, Anna the nurse , Madis nursing journey, katty liu and an old time classic Registereg nurse RN. and if nursing school still spikes your interest more you can become a CNA. Which is a certified nursing assistant. Then go into nursing school...note experience is way more important than rushing through things... anyways...I hope you have gotten something from this and wish you the best in your path. 😊
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Mariana:
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a nursing career. Physics, chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, algebra, geometry and statistics will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills for research; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration among team members, staff and partner departments occur on a daily basis. As a nurse, communication is essential and critical when dealing with patients, medical personnel and other hospital staff. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills. While in high school, the debate team will provide the opportunity to sharpen communication skills which are backed with research and factual data and information.
Here are the Top 10 Best Nursing Schools of 2024 per www.nurse.org:
https://nurse.org/education/top-10-best-nursing-schools/
- Duke University
- Georgetown University
- Johns Hopkins University
- New York University
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of Michigan
- University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA)
- University of Washington
- Emory University
- University of Maryland
U.S. News & World Report has additional college listings for the best schools for a Master Degree in Nursing or a Doctor of Nursing Practice:
https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-nursing-schools
A Bachelor of Science (BSN) in Nursing will concentrate more on math and science courses. This will be earned at a college or university for a duration of four years. Clinical experience is gained while in nursing school at a college or university. Physiology, psychology and anatomy are some additional college courses that are required for one to take to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
There will be a application fee to pay for when submitting college applications. The amount of application fee will depend on the college that you are applying to. If there are questions about the college application process, please reach out to the college's Registrar Office.
College and scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. College and scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of college and scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship and acceptance to the applied college of choice, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
There should be no limit on the amount of scholarships that one can apply to. It will take time to fill out the scholarship applications and provide all of the necessary required information. Also, there should no fee and no cost to fill out and submit scholarship applications. If there is a fee or cost that is associated with a scholarship application, then please do not send this particular scholarship application in. It will be a scam and money will be lost.
According to Johnson and Johnson, here is a link for Nursing Specialties:
https://nursing.jnj.com/specialty
Here is a list of some of the High Demand Nurse Specialties:
- Cardiac Care Nurse
- Certified Nurse Midwife
- Emergency Nurse
- Perioperative Nurse
- Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
- Labor and Delivery Nurse (L&D)
- Home Health Nurse
- Hospice Nurse
- Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse
- Nurse Practitioner
- Obstetrics Nurse
- Oncology Nurse
Best wishes for your education and career path in Nursing!
While in high school, one will need to focus on science and math classes to prepare for a nursing career. Physics, chemistry and biology will be the core science courses. For math, algebra, geometry and statistics will be needed. Both concentrations will enable you to focus and refine your analytical skills for research; complex problem solving; investigative and innovative critical thinking; attention to detail; etc.
Other skills that will need to be built upon center around team building, team work and communication. In any work culture, collaboration among team members, staff and partner departments occur on a daily basis. As a nurse, communication is essential and critical when dealing with patients, medical personnel and other hospital staff. A college course in public speaking, communications and English will help with one's communication and writing skills. While in high school, the debate team will provide the opportunity to sharpen communication skills which are backed with research and factual data and information.
Here are the Top 10 Best Nursing Schools of 2024 per www.nurse.org:
https://nurse.org/education/top-10-best-nursing-schools/
- Duke University
- Georgetown University
- Johns Hopkins University
- New York University
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of Michigan
- University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA)
- University of Washington
- Emory University
- University of Maryland
U.S. News & World Report has additional college listings for the best schools for a Master Degree in Nursing or a Doctor of Nursing Practice:
https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-nursing-schools
A Bachelor of Science (BSN) in Nursing will concentrate more on math and science courses. This will be earned at a college or university for a duration of four years. Clinical experience is gained while in nursing school at a college or university. Physiology, psychology and anatomy are some additional college courses that are required for one to take to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
When reviewing colleges and universities, it is best to check the following:
- In-State vs Out of State Tuition
- Internships
- Scholarships
- Career Placement upon graduation
- Course work and offered classes
- Post-Graduate Degrees - Master and Doctoral
There will be a application fee to pay for when submitting college applications. The amount of application fee will depend on the college that you are applying to. If there are questions about the college application process, please reach out to the college's Registrar Office.
College and scholarship applications can start to be submitted during your Junior year and will continue throughout your Senior year in high school. It is best to ask your Academic Advisor/School Counselor on the timeline process as well. College and scholarship applications will have specific deadlines and requirements to meet in order to be submitted for review and consideration.
You may want to start to compile your resume/portfolio since a majority of college and scholarship applications will require academic grade point average (GPA), academic accomplishments, school activities (clubs, sports, etc.), community involvement (volunteer, church, etc.), academic and personal recommendations, etc. There may be essay requirements on why you are a qualified candidate to receive the scholarship and acceptance to the applied college of choice, what your future goals are academically and professionally and other questions centering around who you are, your beliefs, etc.
Here are a couple of links for College Scholarships:
https://www.mometrix.com/blog/scholarships-for-college/
https://www.nchchonors.org/students/awards-scholarships/national-scholarships
Also, it will be best to check with the colleges and universities that you will be applying to. You can check with the School/Department of your desired major, the Campus Career Center and the Register's Office for additional information for college scholarships and grants and specific requirements for qualifications.
There should be no limit on the amount of scholarships that one can apply to. It will take time to fill out the scholarship applications and provide all of the necessary required information. Also, there should no fee and no cost to fill out and submit scholarship applications. If there is a fee or cost that is associated with a scholarship application, then please do not send this particular scholarship application in. It will be a scam and money will be lost.
According to Johnson and Johnson, here is a link for Nursing Specialties:
https://nursing.jnj.com/specialty
Here is a list of some of the High Demand Nurse Specialties:
- Cardiac Care Nurse
- Certified Nurse Midwife
- Emergency Nurse
- Perioperative Nurse
- Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)
- Labor and Delivery Nurse (L&D)
- Home Health Nurse
- Hospice Nurse
- Neonatal Intensive Care Nurse
- Nurse Practitioner
- Obstetrics Nurse
- Oncology Nurse
Best wishes for your education and career path in Nursing!
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
That’s fantastic! As a freshman in high school aiming for nursing school, here are some important notes to guide you:
1. Focus on Science and Math
Key Courses: Take biology, chemistry, and math classes seriously since these subjects are foundational for nursing.
Future Classes: Aim to take advanced science courses like anatomy, physiology, and even psychology in later high school years.
2. Volunteer or Shadow in Healthcare
Opportunities: Look for volunteer opportunities at hospitals, nursing homes, or clinics. These experiences will help you understand healthcare settings.
Learn the Environment: Shadow a nurse or healthcare worker to get a real feel for the daily tasks and responsibilities.
3. Develop Strong Study Habits
Nursing school is academically challenging, so developing solid study techniques and time management skills now will prepare you for the rigor of college.
4. Explore Nursing Specialties
Different Roles: Research different nursing roles (pediatric, emergency, surgical, etc.) to see which ones interest you.
Learn About Pathways: Understand the different nursing degrees (LPN, RN, BSN, MSN) and decide what path you want to follow.
5. Extracurriculars and Clubs
Join health-related clubs like HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) to start building leadership skills and networking with future healthcare professionals.
6. Maintain a Strong GPA
Nursing programs are competitive. Aim for good grades, especially in science and math, to increase your chances of getting into a quality nursing program.
7. Research Nursing Schools
Start looking at universities or community colleges with strong nursing programs. Consider the requirements and admission standards early on.
8. Build Communication Skills
Nurses work closely with patients and other healthcare providers, so strong communication skills are crucial. Get involved in activities like debate, theater, or student government to improve your ability to speak clearly and compassionately.
By keeping these points in mind, you’ll set yourself up for success as you work toward your goal of becoming a nurse!
1. Focus on Science and Math
Key Courses: Take biology, chemistry, and math classes seriously since these subjects are foundational for nursing.
Future Classes: Aim to take advanced science courses like anatomy, physiology, and even psychology in later high school years.
2. Volunteer or Shadow in Healthcare
Opportunities: Look for volunteer opportunities at hospitals, nursing homes, or clinics. These experiences will help you understand healthcare settings.
Learn the Environment: Shadow a nurse or healthcare worker to get a real feel for the daily tasks and responsibilities.
3. Develop Strong Study Habits
Nursing school is academically challenging, so developing solid study techniques and time management skills now will prepare you for the rigor of college.
4. Explore Nursing Specialties
Different Roles: Research different nursing roles (pediatric, emergency, surgical, etc.) to see which ones interest you.
Learn About Pathways: Understand the different nursing degrees (LPN, RN, BSN, MSN) and decide what path you want to follow.
5. Extracurriculars and Clubs
Join health-related clubs like HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) to start building leadership skills and networking with future healthcare professionals.
6. Maintain a Strong GPA
Nursing programs are competitive. Aim for good grades, especially in science and math, to increase your chances of getting into a quality nursing program.
7. Research Nursing Schools
Start looking at universities or community colleges with strong nursing programs. Consider the requirements and admission standards early on.
8. Build Communication Skills
Nurses work closely with patients and other healthcare providers, so strong communication skills are crucial. Get involved in activities like debate, theater, or student government to improve your ability to speak clearly and compassionately.
By keeping these points in mind, you’ll set yourself up for success as you work toward your goal of becoming a nurse!
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Mariana !
Great question ! Since your high school does not offer a Nursing Program, you would have to enroll at nursing school after high school. The closest nursing school for you would be Gwinnett Technical College in Lawrenceville which is 20 miles from where you live. The other two are further from you, Wiregrass Georgia Technical College (30 miles) and LaGrange College (45 miles). I would advise comparing these colleges, making notes on the tuition, courses offered and any other features that interest you. Also note what each colleges' admission requirements are, too. That could indicate which classes you may want to take while in high school. If you can visit any of the schools for an orientation that would be even better. It always helps to get an in-person feel for the school and the people.
I would advise on an active level to take any human science and health science classes that are available at your high school. Find out about and participate in health related activities, groups and events at your school or in the local community. Look into doing some volunteer work at a hospital or Nursing Home. So more than taking note of, you can actively build your experience and knowledge for your future career while you are in high school. There is also a lot to read about being a nurse and also videos on You Tube that you can view where people speak about what the career and nursing school is like.
Best wishes in all you do !
Great question ! Since your high school does not offer a Nursing Program, you would have to enroll at nursing school after high school. The closest nursing school for you would be Gwinnett Technical College in Lawrenceville which is 20 miles from where you live. The other two are further from you, Wiregrass Georgia Technical College (30 miles) and LaGrange College (45 miles). I would advise comparing these colleges, making notes on the tuition, courses offered and any other features that interest you. Also note what each colleges' admission requirements are, too. That could indicate which classes you may want to take while in high school. If you can visit any of the schools for an orientation that would be even better. It always helps to get an in-person feel for the school and the people.
I would advise on an active level to take any human science and health science classes that are available at your high school. Find out about and participate in health related activities, groups and events at your school or in the local community. Look into doing some volunteer work at a hospital or Nursing Home. So more than taking note of, you can actively build your experience and knowledge for your future career while you are in high school. There is also a lot to read about being a nurse and also videos on You Tube that you can view where people speak about what the career and nursing school is like.
Best wishes in all you do !
Updated
Alishba’s Answer
Hello Mariana,
Blueprint to Success in High School
Academic Excellence: Engage in math and science courses, particularly those that offer honors or AP options, to lay a solid foundation for your future.
Healthcare Exploration: Gain invaluable insights and experience by volunteering at healthcare facilities or shadowing nurses.
Active Participation: Involve yourself in school clubs that align with your interests in health, science, or leadership, such as HOSA or Red Cross clubs.
College Preparation: Keep track of important dates and deadlines, and start researching nursing programs at various universities ahead of time.
High School Certification Opportunities
CPR or First Aid Certification: Stand out from the crowd when applying to nursing programs by becoming certified in CPR or basic first aid.
Healthcare Pathways: Take advantage of healthcare or technical pathways offered by some high schools that can give you a jumpstart in your nursing career, like Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Phlebotomy training.
High GPA: Strive for excellent grades, particularly in science and math courses. Nursing schools are competitive, and maintaining a high GPA (usually 3.0 or above) is key.
Science Concentration: If possible, enroll in biology, chemistry, and anatomy classes. Some schools also value AP courses in these subjects.
Volunteer Work: Show your dedication and commitment to healthcare by volunteering at hospitals, clinics, or healthcare-related organizations. Nursing programs appreciate this kind of experience.
Extracurricular Activities: Boost your application by joining health-related clubs like HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) or taking on leadership roles.
Blueprint to Success in High School
Academic Excellence: Engage in math and science courses, particularly those that offer honors or AP options, to lay a solid foundation for your future.
Healthcare Exploration: Gain invaluable insights and experience by volunteering at healthcare facilities or shadowing nurses.
Active Participation: Involve yourself in school clubs that align with your interests in health, science, or leadership, such as HOSA or Red Cross clubs.
College Preparation: Keep track of important dates and deadlines, and start researching nursing programs at various universities ahead of time.
High School Certification Opportunities
CPR or First Aid Certification: Stand out from the crowd when applying to nursing programs by becoming certified in CPR or basic first aid.
Healthcare Pathways: Take advantage of healthcare or technical pathways offered by some high schools that can give you a jumpstart in your nursing career, like Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Phlebotomy training.
High GPA: Strive for excellent grades, particularly in science and math courses. Nursing schools are competitive, and maintaining a high GPA (usually 3.0 or above) is key.
Science Concentration: If possible, enroll in biology, chemistry, and anatomy classes. Some schools also value AP courses in these subjects.
Volunteer Work: Show your dedication and commitment to healthcare by volunteering at hospitals, clinics, or healthcare-related organizations. Nursing programs appreciate this kind of experience.
Extracurricular Activities: Boost your application by joining health-related clubs like HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) or taking on leadership roles.
Updated
Hana’s Answer
Hi Mariana,
That is a great question. If you want to be prepared for nursing school after high school, I suggest that you take some courses related to the nursing field while you're in high school so that you can easily understand the nursing courses during college.
Based on my experience, if you take Biology, Anatomy, and maybe Statistics, this will help you understand some of the courses. Biology is a great prerequisite to Microbiology and Anatomy & Physiology, while taking Anatomy will help you to retain terms and locations better in Anatomy & Physiology class. And if your nursing school offers Statistics (as mine did), then this will be easier for you to take that class later.
Additionally, I suggest that you volunteer or work (maybe as a Certified Nursing Assistant- you need a certification) in a hospital or other healthcare institution to gain experience working. This can help you be more prepared going into nursing school and help you understand concepts better. And maybe you'll have an idea what type of nurse you want to be when you enter college!
Best of luck to you with your nursing career!
That is a great question. If you want to be prepared for nursing school after high school, I suggest that you take some courses related to the nursing field while you're in high school so that you can easily understand the nursing courses during college.
Based on my experience, if you take Biology, Anatomy, and maybe Statistics, this will help you understand some of the courses. Biology is a great prerequisite to Microbiology and Anatomy & Physiology, while taking Anatomy will help you to retain terms and locations better in Anatomy & Physiology class. And if your nursing school offers Statistics (as mine did), then this will be easier for you to take that class later.
Additionally, I suggest that you volunteer or work (maybe as a Certified Nursing Assistant- you need a certification) in a hospital or other healthcare institution to gain experience working. This can help you be more prepared going into nursing school and help you understand concepts better. And maybe you'll have an idea what type of nurse you want to be when you enter college!
Best of luck to you with your nursing career!