Preparing for nursing school? Check out some quick tips on how to succeed.
5 Tips for how to prepare for nursing school
If you’re gearing up to start nursing school this semester, or you just like to plan ahead, check out these five tips for how to get yourself ready.
Tip #1 Learn and use the academic support available on campus.
Academic Resource Center (ARC) provides several services that any student can access and use.
You have many options for help, such as:
- Tutoring
- Supplemental Instruction (SI)
- Math Drop-in Desk
- Writing Center
- Peer Academic Coaches (PACs)
Often, the science prerequisites for the nursing program preparation are the most challenging courses pre-nursing students face. You’ll have access to tutoring and SI every semester. Be sure to stop by the ARC or reach out to schedule an appointment if you need some support. If you have questions about what services are available, just ask.
Academic services
CUW offers academic and non-academic accommodations for students that qualify for Academic Services. Do you believe you may qualify for accommodations? Would you just like to talk about what’s available to you as a student? Feel free to contact the ARC Director to learn more.
Counseling services
CUW wants to support you as you grow and develop in mind, body, and spirit. Our counseling services are free for you to utilize. If you’re having trouble coping with a stressful situation or solving a personal problem, we can offer emotional support. Counseling services are another way for us to support you in and out of the classroom, before and during nursing school.
Tip #2 Get to know your professors and use office hours.
Our professors are here to help! Communicate with them regularly. Need help outside the classroom? Utilize professor office hours. Professors provide one-on-one or small group support for students in their courses, and as a result, can give you the extra help you need.
Use office hours to:
- Ask questions
- Prepare for tests or quizzes
- Review lecture materials or homework assignments
Tip #3 If you’re struggling, get help right away.
Struggling in a class? Worried about failing a course? Get help right away. Don’t wait until it’s too late to ask for help. If you know a course will be hard, get help from week 1!
Tip #4 Take care and be aware of your mental health.
Preparing for nursing school can be stressful. If you are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, having trouble sleeping, or have changes in your thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that worry them, there is help available!
Campus services and state and national resources are available.
- CUW Counseling Center
- National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-784-2433
- Crisis Text Line at 741-741
Tip #5 Learn how to manage your time.
Students report managing time effectively as one of their biggest challenges. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the work you have to do, you’re not alone.
Learn about practical ideas of how you can manage your time:
Want more help preparing for nursing school?
Getting ready for an education in nursing can be stressful. If you need help, feel free to ask! Our advisors, faculty, and staff are here to help you succeed.
If you need more information feel free to contact us by phone at 734-995-7460, email us at ARC@cuaa.edu, or visit our website. We can’t wait to hear from you!
This blog was originally published on August 6, 2021. It has been updated to reflect current information.