Nursing school, the great unknown. So many of us have expectations of what nursing school will be like, but are those expectations realistic? Here is a list of what to expect in nursing school, expectations versus reality. So you know exactly what to expect!
Expectation #1: Nursing school will be hard
Reality: Going into to nursing school with the expectation that it will be difficult is spot on. Nursing school will challenge you in many ways. You’re going to feel like there just isn’t enough time in the day to do all your assignments, reading, and studying. But that’s just the reality of nursing school and you’ll find a way to get the important things done.
For all the Pre-Nursing students out there, be sure to visit Tips for Pre-Nursing Students to be Successful in Nursing School.
Expectation #2: You’ll still be able to get straight A’s throughout nursing school
Reality: While this is doable for some, for the vast majority this simply isn’t the case. You may be used to getting straight A’s in your pre-requisites, but nursing school is on a whole other level. Like I said, you’re going to be challenged in many ways.
Also check out How to Successfully Read and Understand Nursing Textbooks and How to Take the Best Notes in Nursing School to help you get the highest grade possible.
Expectation #3: Everyone will give 100% in group projects
Reality: We all know this wasn’t true in pre-requisites and it still isn’t true in nursing school. While it is true that students seem to care more when it comes to classes pertaining to their major, there will still be people who wait until the very last minute and do the minimum amount of work. Leaving the rest of their group members scrambling to do the rest for them. Pretty much the exact same as pre-req’s.
Expectation #4: You’ll still be able to have a life outside of nursing school
Reality: Most all your time in nursing school is going to be dedicated to nursing. Which is why it’s so important to get in all that friend and family time on breaks and holidays.
Expectation #5: You’ll have the weekends off
Reality: While you won’t have classes on the weekends, you’re still going to have homework, assigned reading, and exams to study for. If you organize and plan ahead of time, you will be able to do things here and there. But don’t think going into nursing school that you won’t have any school stuff to do on Saturday’s and Sunday’s.
Expectation #6: You’ll be able to work a full-time job and go to school
Reality: If you’re superhuman or have more than 24 hours in a day, maybe this will work for you. But for the rest of us this is simply not doable. Even working part-time while going to school is challenging. If you’re able to not work while in school, then that’s the way to go. Pick up some seasonal work when you’re on breaks and take the extra time when you’re in school to study.
If working during nursing school or on breaks is for you, visit Top 10 Best Jobs for Students in Nursing School.
Expectation #7: You’ll be 100% prepared to go to clinical once they start
Reality: No one ever feels 100% ready for clinical. Even if your task for the day is to simply introduce yourself to the patient it’s still nerve-racking the first few times.
Here’s a list on 16 Things You Need to Bring to Clinical to help you feel more prepared. And be sure to visit Managing and Preventing Student Stress for more info.
Expectation #8: You’ll have great clinical instructors who will support and believe in you
Reality: While hopefully this is true for you, this isn’t always the case. In some situations, you’re going to have clinical instructors who believe in tough love. You might forget to turn in a clinical assignment, or you might just be off you’re A-game, but you’re going to have some not-so-great clinical experiences. It’s all part of the game to help prepare you for the real world of nursing, where not every shift is rainbows and butterflies!
For those nurse preceptors that you do like and learn from, visit Gift Ideas for Your Nurse Preceptor!
Expectation #9: Once you graduate, you’ll know everything there is to know about nursing
Reality: While I wish this was the case, it’s simply not. In the medical field, there is always something new to learn. You can ask any seasoned nurse and I’m sure they’ll tell you the same thing. In fact, to renew your nursing license, you need continuing education units. You’ll always be learning in nursing!
Expectation #10: You’ll get a job the second you graduate
Reality: This is true for some people, but not for every new nurse, and that’s okay! You still need to set aside time to study for the NCLEX post-graduation and send out your applications. Then you can start focusing on getting that dream job of yours!
And that’s it! Now that you know the expectations and realities of nursing school, head on over to How to Survive Nursing School, Nursing School Must Haves, and Where to Search for Your Dream Job for more info!
Also be sure to visit What to Expect Out of Nursing: Expectations Versus Reality for more nursing realities.
You always provide clear explanations and definitions.
Thank you! That’s the goal!