Surviving Nursing School: A Journey of Resilience

The Early Days of Nursing School: Facing the Reality

Walking into nursing school, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. The initial classes were intense, and the amount of information was overwhelming. Many told me nursing school would be tough, but nothing could prepare me for the volume of material I had to learn in such a short time frame.

For instance, in my first week, we covered foundational topics like anatomy and pharmacology, which are crucial for future practice. It felt like I was drinking from a fire hose—information poured in so rapidly that it was hard to keep up.

Reflecting on those early struggles, I realize they instilled in me the values of resilience and dedication. Both are vital in nursing.

A collection of nursing textbooks representing the study load in nursing school.

LSUHSC Nursing Student Personal Testimony

If you’re feeling like the path to your dream is anything but straight, let me reassure you—you’re not alone. My journey through nursing school at LSU Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC) was anything but typical. I began in an accelerated 18-month program—intense, fast-paced, and demanding. Then, I made the choice to slow-track. That decision alone brought criticism from an instructor who dismissed me as “one of those six-year nursing students.” But I didn’t let that stop me.

I knew I learned differently. Despite graduating magna cum laude from my previous university, I suspected something deeper was at play. So, I got evaluated for adult ADHD. That diagnosis changed everything. With support from the Office for Disability Services (ODS), I received testing accommodations and finally found a learning environment where I could thrive alongside others with similar challenges.

I won’t sugarcoat it—six years is a long time. But every step brought me closer to the finish line. Now, I’m set to graduate on December 11, 2025.

So, what am I saying? Never give up on yourself. Not because the world believes in you—but because you choose to believe in you. Even as a spiritual woman with a deep Christian foundation, I recognized I needed more than prayer. I needed strategy, community, therapy, grace, and grit. Storms will come—often when you least expect them. But if you remain steady, grounded in God and in yourself, you can endure. You can finish. You can heal.

Finding Your Tribe

A significant factor in my survival was the friendship and support from my classmates. We formed study groups, shared notes, and provided encouragement during stressful periods.

Establishing these connections was crucial. According to a study, students with strong support systems perform 20% better academically. Together, we celebrated small victories, like passing quizzes, and lifted each other up during tougher times. If you’re just beginning your journey, find your tribe; they will be your greatest resource.

Balancing Life and Study

It’s no secret that balancing life while managing tough coursework can be difficult. I initially isolated myself, thinking I needed to devote all my time to study. That strategy led to burnout quickly.

Through trial and error, I learned that balance is essential. I scheduled time for relaxation, exercise, and social activities. For instance, dedicating just one hour a week to hang out with friends made a significant difference in my mental well-being. Studying smarter, not harder, became my mantra.

Remember the saying: you can’t pour from an empty cup. So, take the time to fill yours!

Time Management Skills

Time management became my lifeline in nursing school. With lectures, clinicals, and exam preparation, the days slipped away quickly.

I began using planners and productivity apps to stay organized. Breaking tasks into small, manageable pieces made my workload less daunting. By keeping an agenda, I could visualize my commitments clearly and set realistic goals.

Find a system that works for you—this small adjustment can lead to significant improvements in your stress levels and overall performance.

The Clinical Experience

Clinical rotations are transformative yet intimidating. Engaging with patients and applying classroom learning in real situations is thrilling but can feel overwhelming.

I remember my first day on the clinical floor vividly—my heart raced as I introduced myself to a patient. However, that initial fear turned into confidence as I learned to trust my education and instincts.

Embracing these opportunities is crucial; they help transform students into capable caregivers.

Handling Stress and Self-Care

Stress is an inevitable part of nursing school, but ignoring it can lead to severe consequences. I discovered effective coping strategies to manage academic and emotional pressures.

Practicing mindfulness and yoga became my safe havens. These activities improved my focus and reduced anxiety. Eating healthy and exercising regularly also played crucial roles in maintaining my mental health. For example, I noticed that after just a 30-minute workout, my stress levels dropped significantly.

Self-care isn’t selfish; it's crucial, especially in a demanding field like nursing.

Learning from Failures

Let’s be honest—you will face setbacks. I encountered exams that didn’t go as planned and clinical skills that took longer to master than I anticipated.

The lessons I learned from those failures were priceless. Each mistake taught me resilience and deepened my understanding. Remember, it’s okay to stumble. Those moments often offer the greatest lessons.

Dust yourself off, reassess your strategies, and keep moving forward. Your dreams are truly worth the effort.

The Light at the End of the Tunnel

As my nursing school journey progressed, I began to see the light at the end of the tunnel. The knowledge and skills I’d accumulated began to click into place.

It felt amazing to think critically about patient care and apply what I had learned to real-life scenarios. My confidence grew, and my passion for nursing was strengthened.

Visualize your goals and keep reminding yourself why you chose this pathway. This mindset will fuel your motivation during tough times.

Final Thoughts: Believe in Yourself

Surviving nursing school fundamentally hinges on belief—believing in yourself, your skills, and your aspirations. It is a challenging journey, but with dedication and connection, the rewards are beyond measure.

There will be days when the road feels daunting. But remember, you are capable of becoming an exceptional nurse. Each challenge is a stepping stone toward your goal.

Keep pushing forward, lean on your support network, manage your time wisely, and prioritize self-care. Nursing is not merely a job; it is a calling. Embrace your journey—you are well on your way to answering it!

Keep the faith and remember: You can endure. Keep pushing forward!