Flora
The nursing major is truly one of the most unique journeys that a college student can experience. Compared to more traditional majors which consist of mainly lectures, nursing school is comprised of a fair amount of didactic courses as well as plenty of hands-on lab and clinical opportunities. Beyond academics, nursing school teaches its students about compassion, empathy, and professionalism through patient interactions, close student to faculty relationships, and teamwork.
The biggest factor that sets nursing as one of the most unique majors is the opportunity for clinical experience in lab and in hospital facilities. Students are put into real world situations where they are challenged to think outside of the "textbook" when providing care for patients. Clinicals give students the opportunity to build interpersonal communication skills, practice hands-on assessments, and extrapolate confidence within themselves. Another unique aspect of clinicals is the development of relationships between the student and instructor. Clinical groups have typically 5-7 students which offers more than ample amount of one-on-one time for guidance. Students are also encouraged to ask each other for help during medication passes, vital signs, bed baths, feeding etc., which builds strong teamwork and coordination skills. During the last semester of nursing school, students will need to complete approximately 200 hours of clinical at a local or neighboring hospital. Students follow different preceptors and learn to adapt the lifestyle of a post-grad nurse.
In nursing school, there is no such thing as "floating by". There are minimum exam grades in almost all courses to ensure proper understanding of the profession and prestigious GPA averages to keep the program competitive. Many hours will be dedicated to studying and consistent repitition of hands-on skills is necessary, making nursing one of the most time demanding but rewarding majors.
There is always something to learn or practice. Come by the ISPC where there are learning resources, nursing equipment, and nursing staff (and students!) to help you master those assessment skills. Don't forget to reach out to your instructors if you ever need something to be clarified because they are here to help!
You will notice a projection of self growth throughout the program. You will experience feelings and see things that you have never expected before. You will surprise yourself with how much you have learned and how much you can now do for your patients.
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