REFLECTIONS
“ Study Hard , Save Lives ” By MacKenzie Simmons
Nursing school is a time filled with challenges as we embark on a roller-coaster full of emotions and increased cortisol levels . Despite the challenges along the way , I have grown to love nursing , even during the rough days . For me , nursing school had been a long-time dream because even as a young girl , I have loved finding ways to care for the people around me . I always knew that I was destined to be a nurse one day .
As a senior nursing student , I reflect on my time spent in the program and the difference I was able to make in people ’ s lives , even as a student . I am so thankful for the knowledge gained , encounters shared , opportunities , and lessons I have learned along the way . Keeping a positive attitude and finding ways to recharge my battery is vital as I venture deeper into the program . Time management is crucial for success in nursing school . Between balancing clinicals , 3-hour lectures , studying for exams , being an active member of several organizations , and maintaining a social life , time management and organization are requirements to avoid unwarranted stress .
One thing that has kept me motivated and excited is reminding myself of the end goal : to save lives . Whenever I get stressed or feel like a failure , I remind myself to take a moment to breathe and remember why I started on this journey . Making a mistake is not failure ; it is simply an opportunity to learn and grow as a person and as a student . Stress comes and goes throughout life . It is not about what causes the stress , but ultimately , how to react and respond that matters most . So , when stress comes knocking at the door , instead of freaking out , remember that with hard work , nursing school will be accomplished !
Starting back to school in the fall is one of my favorite times , not only because of my love for learning but also because I love a structured schedule . It is beneficial to make a routine and stick to it . This has helped me avoid undue stress despite being heavily involved in NSNA and other organizations on campus . I love using digital and paper calendars to keep organized so that I never miss a due date . I always provide adequate time to learn and digest the material when studying for an exam . Cramming the night before a test has never worked in my favor , and I am sure many can relate . Active recall and study questions help me obtain high grades .
The fall season can be a fun yet stressful time for nursing students ; remember to take breaks to fully recharge your battery . As nurses , we dedicate our lives to serve through compassionate and client-centered care . When running on a depleted battery , one cannot fully help another in need .
Congratulations to all the new nursing students for being accepted into a nursing program and to all those who have made it to senior year ! I wish you lots of success in your journey through nursing school . My imparting knowledge is to always be compassionate to those around you . People may not remember what you said or did , but they will never forget how you made them feel . I encourage all aspiring nurses to be the type of people who go the extra mile to show our clients and community that we care for them . Remember future nurses , to study hard so we can save many lives together ! n
48 NSNA IMPRINT • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2023 • www . nsna . org