Student Blogs

Written by Kayla Gonzalez

My name is Kayla and I am a Senior student, currently in my third semester. I am taking a Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.

Getting into nursing school is a big accomplishment. You conquered your way through numerous competitive applicants, and you are now on your way to becoming a nurse! While this is an amazing achievement, it is also a huge responsibility to be prepared even before entering nursing school. 

Committing to nursing school is just as important as any other life-long commitment in our existence. It can be challenging, nerve-wracking, and demanding. The transition from taking prerequisite courses to taking nursing school courses can be quite a shock. It is essential to not be overwhelmed with these changes as your cohort is going through it with you! We can get through this and come out victorious! 

Listed below are a few of the ways that you can start preparing for when entering a nursing school:

Investing in a Planner

Purchasing a planner that is specific to your lifestyle and needs will help you with consistently planning out all aspects of your life and scheduling things ahead of time. Planners definitely aid in organizing your life, both socially and academically, during your nursing school years. Being aware of the deadlines for assignments and documentation is essential. Therefore, ensuring that they are submitted timely should be a priority. Once your professors begin uploading the syllabus for the course, it would be beneficial to sit down with your planner and gradually begin to fill out the due dates and exam dates before even starting Nursing school.

Setting a Routine and Holding Yourself Accountable

Set boundaries for yourself and wake up early to check in on your courses and assignments for the week, even on the days you do not have class or clinicals. Additionally, get dressed as if you are going to class and plan what assignments you are accomplishing for each day of the week. Self-accountability is going to be one of the motivating forces that will keep you going despite the online aspect of some of your courses this semester. 

Communicating with Professors

Do not hesitate to ask for help! It is important to reach out to faculty if there is a question about assignments, exams, homework, etc. Take advantage of office hours and any additional resources, such as tutoring, to help you understand the material better. Connecting with faculty is also a great way to start networking and showing your commitment to learning.

Taking Care of Yourself

Incorporating self-care in preparation for nursing school should be a priority as well. Make sure to pay attention to what your body needs, whether it be taking a break from studying to prevent burnout, participating in a movie night with your family, or staying active.