Get into Gear for Back-to-School Nursing Year Success

Whether it’s your first or final year in nursing school, getting ready for back to school can be a daunting task. There can be so much to do from getting your school supplies to organizing your new routine. Here, we’ve got you covered with our back-to-school checklist, best time management strategies, how to build a strong support network, useful self-care tips, and how best to nail your nursing career goals. So sharpen your pencils and take note!  

Back-to-School Checklist for Nursing Students

First up, getting started with back-to-school priorities means that you invest in the must-haves. Getting these study and tech supplies as well as organizing your workspace is a very smart move for your school success:

Nursing School Must-Haves

Here is a back-to-school checklist of the best supplies you can get:

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Good-to-Have Extras

Here are a few helpful add-ons that would make your back-to-school nursing experience more complete:

1. Clinical Backpack and Lunch Box
2. Roller Backpack
3. Well-Insulated Water Bottle
4. Earplugs
5. Hand Sanitizer and Lotion

Tech Essentials for Nursing Students

Geek out on these tech must-haves to start your year off right: 

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1. Laptop
2. iPad and Accessories, including an Apple pencil
3. Computer Monitor and HDMI Cord
4. Noise-Canceling Headphones
5. Laser Printer
6. Voice Recorder
7. USB Drive and External Hard Drive
8. Portable Charger

Organizing Your Study Space

Create a dedicated study space that is conducive to learning and focus. Ensure that it is well-lit and is free from clutter to avoid any distractions. Ensure that your seating is comfortable and that your back-to-school supplies are well within reach. 

Time Management Strategies for Success

Efficient time management strategies are essential for nursing students needing to manage homework, clinical rotations and personal priorities. By effectively managing your time, you can excel academically, minimize stress and accomplish your to-do tasks everyday. Here are three top strategies to achieving:

Creating a Study Schedule

To make the most of your study time, you need a plan. Create a digital or paper schedule that prioritizes time-intensive coursework, clinical responsibilities and life priorities. Be realistic, make room for adjustments, and allow time for self-care activities. In this way, you can stay organized and get ahead with your nursing school year. 

Prioritizing Tasks and Deadlines

Outline from the outset tasks and deadlines that come due in your semester and year so you are not overwhelmed by them. Break them down into smaller goals and objectives using the SMART goal-setting system. Or use the Eisenhower Matrix to assess them based on their urgency and importance. 

Avoiding Procrastination

Procrastination can be a common challenge among students. Remember to set aside time in your schedule and space in your study area to focus on the task at hand. Rank high-priority goals first so you don’t leave them to the last minute. Also, ensure that your tasks are achievable so that you don’t feel overwhelmed. Just know that peak productivity happens when you can remain consistent with your dedication to getting things done.

Building a Strong Support Network

A supportive network can help you face the unique challenges that nursing school poses. Connect with your peers, gain the mentorship of seasoned nurses and remember to reach out to your online and campus resources when you need help.

Connect with Fellow Nursing Students

Develop a sense of community from fellow nursing students who are going through similar experiences as you are. You can nurture a support system by joining study groups, partaking in class discussions, and going to campus events. These experiences can give you the extra confidence and motivation to know that you’re not alone.

Seek Mentorship

Nursing faculty, clinical instructors and experienced nurses can be useful mentors to guide you along the way. These individuals can boost your morale, give you a greater sense of belonging, and can provide excellent career advice and possibly opportunities.

Utilize Online and Campus Resources

Take advantage of academic advising services, writing centers and counseling resources in your nursing school. Also benefit from online resources, such as Achieve Test Prep, to provide you useful support for your TEAS and NCLEX exams, as well as support you along your nursing school journey. Explore online communities to also expand your network and reach out to others who can also give you perspective on nursing school.

Self-Care Tips for Nursing Students

Being devoted to your nursing school education also means taking time out for self-care. Here are the top self-care tips to consider when you’re going back to school:

Physical Health and Wellness

Exercise regularly, establish healthy eating habits, and maintain good sleep as priorities. Yoga, meditation, and nature walks will also help keep you on track to improve your mood and boost your momentum.

Mental Health and Stress Management

It’s best to implement positive stress management techniques like meditation, breathwork and journaling practice. And remember to get the help of counseling services or support groups if you ever feel too overwhelmed.

Nutrition and Sleep Habits

What you eat is fuel to keep you motivated and boost your energy for your nursing school routine. So eat wisely and avoid too much caffeine and alcohol which can inhibit sound sleep and other good habits. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep for optimal rest and recharge.

Nailing Your Nursing Career Goals

To best your nursing career objectives during nursing school, you need to set clear objectives, develop and work your network for those goals. Here’s how:

Set Clear Objectives

Evaluate your goals for the coming year and also a few years out. What do you want to accomplish? This will help you keep your eyes on the prize and will help you keep on track with your ambitions.

Create a Career Plan

Define a clear career plan that will help you get to the goals you want to achieve. Consider the things that will get you there: your education, certifications, needed experience, and your network. Go after these with determination because that will have an impact on your trajectory. 

Networking Opportunities

Reach out and build strong relationships with colleagues, mentors and nursing professionals. Attend events, join nursing organizations, and network with online and community groups to open new doors and career opportunities. 

Ready for Back-to-School Success with Achieve Test Prep?

Achieve Test Prep is ready to help when you need us. Whether you want support for CLEP credit by exams, help for your TEAS entrance exam, 1:1 mentoring and tutoring for nursing school, or NCLEX exam prep, we’re here for you. Hear what other nursing school students just like you have to say about Achieve. We’re rooting for your new nursing school year success and believe in you!