We asked our WVJC nursing students what essential tips from nursing students have worked for them, and this is what they said! If you are starting your nursing career journey, read and incorporate these tips into your daily routine.
1. Keep Your Fridge Full of Healthy Snacks
It’s easy to get lost in studying and binge eat junk food because of stress! Stock up on healthy snacks to maintain your energy and focus.
2. Be Flexible
Things are going to pop up in school, and assignments or studying may take longer than expected. Stay adaptable and plan for the unexpected.
3. Avoid Procrastination
Procrastination will only cause more stress. Just get the assignments and studying done and over with to avoid last-minute panic.
4. Make Time for Yourself
Go to the gym, take a walk, or call loved ones. Making time for yourself is crucial. It’s okay to take breaks and recharge.
5. Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Nursing school is not a solo endeavor. Help each other out and remember that it’s not a competition. Collaborate and support your peers for a smoother journey through nursing school.
6. Study the ATI Rationales
When preparing for ATI finals, make sure to study the rationales. Understanding why an answer is correct helps reinforce your learning.
7. Study to Learn and Understand
Don’t just memorize; aim to understand the material thoroughly. This approach will benefit you in the long run, especially in practical applications.
Work-life balance is crucial. My biggest piece of advice, which always surprises my peers, is to make time for friends and family. Yes, an accelerated nursing program is intense, but life is short. During this stressful time, I need fun and family more than ever. Writing out a schedule and dedicating days to family is important and more than possible. I’m debunking the “nursing school is miserable and lonely” myth because, with good time management, it doesn’t have to be.
Additional Essential Tips from Nursing Students:
- Don’t Change Your Answers: Always read the rationales when you get a question wrong or right to aid comprehension.
- Daily NCLEX Practice: Try to do at least a few NCLEX* practice questions every day. It seems silly initially, but it’s key to acing your exams. Knowing how to answer the questions is crucial when nursing school is about choosing the most right.
- Give Yourself Grace: Be kind to yourself and acknowledge your efforts.
- Make the Most of Clinicals: You get what you put into clinicals. Always look for learning opportunities.
- Find a Study Buddy: Having someone to bounce ideas off can be incredibly helpful.
Tools and Techniques:
- GoodNotes App on an iPad: Great for note-taking during lectures.
- Collaborate via Google Docs: Sharing documents with friends helps you see different perspectives and enhances collective learning.
- Early Start on Study Guides: Don’t wait until the last minute. Start as soon as the study guide is available and review it multiple times.
- Pharmacology Flashcards: Memorization is essential for pharmacology, and flashcards are effective.
- Utilize All Resources: Attend study sessions, lectures, and any additional help offered by your school.
Organize Your Time:
- Big Desk Calendar: Write down all your due dates and clinical dates. Crossing them out as you go can be a great motivator and helps ensure nothing sneaks up on you.
Thank you to all the nursing students who shared their invaluable tips. Your essential tips from nursing students and insights are sure to help many others on their journey through nursing school! These practical and tested strategies can make a significant difference in managing the challenges of nursing school. From maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding procrastination to leveraging teamwork and utilizing study tools, these tips are designed to support your success. Remember, you are not alone on this path—lean on your peers, seek balance, and stay dedicated to your goals. Good luck, and welcome to the rewarding world of nursing!
Join the WVJC family for your nursing education and use these essential tips from nursing students! Get started today and speak to a nursing admissions team member about your goals by requesting information.
*Passing the NCLEX-RN exam is required to become a Registered Nurse.