Essential Strategies from a BAT Student to Thrive in Nursing School

Written by: Ryan G.

Starting a nursing program can feel like learning to swim in the deep end on day one. This holds especially true in the Baccalaureate Accelerated Track (BAT) program. The pace is fast, the content is heavy, and the expectations are high. However, with the right habits and support, every student not only can stay afloat but thrive in this rigorous program. Here is what has helped me throughout my time in the program.

1. Show Up and Stay Engaged

Attending classes is just the beginning of how to do well in this program. It's not about physically being in the classroom, it's about being mentally present. Each student has their own methods on how to take notes for class, but the approach I have found most useful is to print out each lecture using the printing funds through the university. I can highlight, write, and star important details and scratch out unimportant information. When a professor emphasizes something, I highlight or star each one of them. These always end up as exam questions—just like the NCLEX always has a question about abnormal potassium.

2. Review Early and Often

The nursing programs—especially the BAT program—move fast. If you wait until the night before an exam, you’ll feel overwhelmed. Regular review helps you truly understand the material rather than just memorize it. Mnemonics can help, but they rarely support long-term retention. The best strategy is simple: start studying early. Get ahead on readings, review lecture notes the same day, and break material into manageable chunks to avoid last-minute cramming. Consistent study habits will get you through even the toughest weeks, and many of these topics will reappear on the NCLEX.

3. Utilize Your Professors

Professors cannot stress enough how much they want to help you. Office hours are honestly one of the greatest "cheat codes" of nursing school. Professors are incredibly approachable, and I have even had some beg us to stop by! The one-on-one atmosphere is invaluable and sometimes I leave feeling like I got emotional support on top of the much needed educational support. And who knows...maybe they will even tip you off to a question or two that might be on the exam!

4. Get Involved

I'm the type of person who thrives with a busy schedule. While some people may feel overwhelmed or stressed, too much free time makes me more likely to slack and fall victim to the afternoon nap. Being involved in clubs and student groups provides structure, keeps me energized, and gives me a weekly routine. Though school always comes first, staying active in the community has definitely saved my mental health—and probably also my blood pressure.

5. Stay Active

Exercise has always been one of the biggest stress relievers for me. Running, walking, playing soccer, playing frisbee, hiking, going to the gym, etc. have all been my own personal form of therapeutic intervention. Nursing school can be demanding and moving your body gives your mind space to rest. You cannot pour from an empty cup, so be sure to take care of yourself.

6. Find Study Buddies

Friendships and study groups can make all the difference. Studying with other people helps to reinforce concepts and can give you different perspectives on challenging topics. This will also have a built in support system that truly understands what you are going through.

7. Have Fun!

It may sound cliche or ridiculous, but seriously, HAVE FUN! Nursing school is intense, but also full of some amazing memories. Hanging out with classmates who understand your very specific brand of stress, grabbing food or coffee after a long clinical, celebrating small wins (like finally passing catheter placement competency), or taking breaks to go out/explore the area/or just decompress can all be effective ways to get through hard weeks of classes. Maybe you can even watch the Bills, but be warned...sometimes that causes more stress than relaxation depending on the week.

Nursing school is challenging and there is no sugarcoating it. However, once you get through it, it can be extremely rewarding. Staying organized, seeking support, taking care of yourself and your classmates, and getting involved can make the journey not only manageable but meaningful. The BAT program specifically pushes you, but also shapes you into a confident, competent, and compassionate future nurse. You will be capable of more than you think. YOU'VE GOT THIS!