How I'm surviving nursing school

A blog designed to give advice on how to study, stay motivated, prepared, and much more.

[danpaparelli]

Finals mood

[danpaparelli]

Nearing the end

As the semester is winding down, the end finally feels within reach. We all should be proud of ourselves no matter what. Just making it to this point took a great amount of energy and determination, and that is something to embrace. Take it easy on yourself

[jademadss]

Pediatric Clinical #1, Check.

First clinical rotation done and it was not nearly as scary as my anxiety made it out to be. Actually, it was one of the best experiences I’ve had thus far in nursing school. 

Clinical aside from gaining hands on experiences, is where one (nursing student) will figure out where their passion is and what route they may want to pursue after graduating. I have always wanted to follow the pediatric route, initially wanting to become a midwife. I won’t know for sure if midwifery is actually for me until I step into the OB realm though, I can say pediatrics is definitely the right path for me.

I have always struggled with changing careers and feeling like I have found my passion and today for the first time in 30 years, I said to myself, wow I can actually see myself being a nurse in the pediatric cardiac unit every day and I would thoroughly love it. 

That being said, I am looking forward to the rest of this semester and enjoying every minute I get to spend with 2B at Dupont. <3 

Until next time.. 

[danpaparelli]

It’s crazy that we just finished our last clinical. This day felt like forever ago, but it’s insane to think we are officially done. We killed it this semester!

[danpaparelli]

Mid Semester Slump

We are officially half way through the semester. It is normal to be feeling tired and “over it” at this point. Take a couple days for yourself and REST! You got this, you are going to be fine. You need a break in order to be able to finish strong 

[iamkatrinathomas]

My first 2 exam for the semester,

I had my first two exam for the semester this week, and it was very stressful getting ready for both exams but with God I was about to get through it. How is this semester going with guys? I had a great day today with my friends, just taking litter bit time away from school and practicing self care. So guys don’t forget to take care of yourself because self care is very important, and have a great weekend. 

[danpaparelli]

I am so happy our tests are over! I am even happier that we passed! It is so important that we take some time to relax and rest our brains! This will give us a chance to cool down before we have to study again for our pediatrics test. Make sure you are getting adequate sleep at night (6-8 hrs) and remember to eat breakfast every day! We Got This!!

[skylarb22]

Pushing through!

Wow these past 2 weeks have been super stressful and full of anxiety for me! One of the things that really gets me is the med calc tests we have to take each semester and get 90s or greater on. The pressure of taking an exam like this isn’t easy, and it takes a toll on you mentally. Im happy to say that for now, I am moved on from the med calls and can focus on studying for our first exams coming up in a couple weeks! Once you finish something, there’s always more that you can do! In nursing school, you dont get to take a break!

[danpaparelli]

Good luck on the exam today, you definitely got this. 

[danpaparelli]

First Exams Prep

I just had 2 exams this week. I recommend studying at least a week in advance for both. It is important to stay ahead and study early so that you can cover all necessary information to ace your exams. Remember to eat and drink lots of fluids. Study hard and try your best, you got this.

[amandawagnerr]

[danpaparelli]

PREP U is soo much better!

[danpaparelli]

My First Pediatric Clinical

My first pediatric clinical was an experience that I will never forget. The long hours on my feet were something that I wasn’t used to, but wouldn’t trade for the world. I would recommend exercising often and getting used to working long hours. I would also recommend eating a full meal before clinical starts, regardless of how hungry you actually are. Try to stay focused and absorb as much information as you could. 

[iamkatrinathomas]

I am really excited and nervous at the same time to start this semester because we are starting clinical but with God all things are possible. And good luck with everything this semester guys, nursing is not an easy major so keep your heads up, stay motivated and take care of yourself. 

[danpaparelli]

I feel the exact same! I am very excited to learn more while also feeling nervous to fail. This is normal though. We got this! We just gotta study and work hard and we’ll be fine.

[danpaparelli]

Eat.

Make sure you are eating full and healthy meals throughout the day. (especially breakfast) If I don’t eat at least 3 full meals a day, I find myself performing slower and not as well. Eating breakfast is also super important in that it gives your brain a little boost to start off your day. 

[danpaparelli]

“The Best Way To Get Started Is To Quit Talking And Begin Doing.” – Walt Disney

Today is the first day of my second semester here at Widener. Above is a quote that I will take with me throughout the entirety of this semester to help motivate and inspire me.