Learn how to get through nursing school with help from University of the Incarnate Word’s ABSN program. Staying organized, prioritizing your self-care, leaning on your support network, and finding mentors are just some of the methods you can apply for academic success.
Earning your BSN can be a demanding yet rewarding journey, especially when students opt for an accelerated timeframe like the University of the Incarnate Word’s 16-month Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) track in San Antonio, Texas.
In this article, we will explore how to successfully earn a BSN and strategies you can follow for academic success.
Tip 1: Stay Organized
Investing in a physical or electronic planner can help you track your assignments, exams and clinical schedules. Digital tools like calendar apps or task management software offer the added benefit of setting reminders and alerts, ensuring deadlines don’t go unnoticed. Additionally, color-coding your tasks by priority or subject can provide a clear visual overview of your workload.
Tip 2: Develop Effective Study Habits
Break down your study material into smaller, more manageable chunks. Focus on one specific topic or chapter at a time and set achievable goals for each study session. Summarize notes in your own words to reinforce comprehension. Use flashcards to memorize key terms and concepts, and test yourself regularly to assess retention.
Collaborating with your fellow cohort members through group study sessions allows you to cover more material and gain different perspectives on difficult subjects.
Tip 3: Utilize Professional Networking Opportunities
Networking is a powerful tool for nursing students, providing access to resources, guidance and career opportunities. Becoming a member of a nursing association, such as the American Nurses Association (ANA) or the National Student Nurses' Association (NSNA), can be incredibly beneficial. As a nursing student at UIW, you will automatically become a member of the NSNA, providing you with numerous opportunities for growth and development within the nursing field.
You can also look for mentors among your instructors, clinical supervisors or professionals you meet through networking events. UIW offers a highly supportive environment for students, with ABSN faculty who care about helping you succeed.
Discover what to expect from nursing clinicals as an ABSN student.
Tip 4: Prioritize Self-Care
Prioritizing self-care is crucial to maintaining the stamina and mental clarity you need to succeed. Ensure that you exercise regularly, which can boost your energy levels, reduce stress and improve your sleep quality. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week. It is also important to follow a balanced diet and stay properly hydrated.
Additionally, consider incorporating stress management techniques like mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, journaling or yoga into your daily routine. Adhering to these practices can help you calm your mind, reduce anxiety and enhance focus.
Tip 5: Develop Strong Clinical Skills
Developing strong clinical skills as a nursing student directly impacts your ability to provide quality patient care. Take advantage of the skills and simulation labs in UIW’s ABSN track, which provide a controlled environment for practicing procedures and patient interactions.
These labs offer a valuable opportunity to practice and learn in a supportive environment, free from the pressures of real-life situations. Regularly practicing essential skills such as taking vital signs, administering injections, and performing basic procedures will help you build both confidence and competence as a nursing student.
Tip 6: Gain “Soft” Skills
Nursing requires essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork and empathy. Working with real-world patient populations and collaborating with healthcare teams in clinical rotations can improve your ability to interact smoothly with patients and colleagues. These skills are crucial for providing compassionate care and working efficiently in healthcare environments.
Want to learn more about which skills will help you as a nurse? See the top 5 nursing skills.
Tip 7: Examine Your Finances
Effective financial management will help you navigate education costs without undue stress. List all your income sources, including savings, part-time jobs and financial aid. Then, outline your expenses, such as tuition, books, supplies, housing, transportation and personal needs. Prioritize essential expenses and identify areas where you can cut costs. Regularly track your spending to stay within your budget.
If you need to take out loans, borrow only what is necessary and understand the terms and conditions. Focus on federal student loans first, as they often have lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options than private loans. Develop a repayment plan and make payments as soon as possible to reduce the total interest paid.
Are You Ready to Take on the Challenge of Completing a BSN Degree?
With these tips on how to get through nursing school, you will better understand how you can study, learn and stay organized on the path to your BSN. If the prospect of an ABSN track interests you, contact us today. An admissions counselor will reach out to begin the conversation and determine what you need to apply. Don’t wait to pursue your future in nursing.