I once read that everyone is given exactly as many hardships as they can handle. This has become a kind of mantra for me, which I firmly believe in. Was I scared to enter nursing school in my 30s with a child by my side? Yes, I was. But, as I said, I chose to believe that I could overcome any difficulty on my way. I am sure I will get my degree and become the best registered nurse imaginable. However, my path is not easy, and if you need an inspiring story about life as a nursing student with extra challenges, you are in the right place.
Life as a Nursing Student When You Also Have a Kid
All in all, every nursing student faces numerous pressures and deals with lots of responsibilities in nursing school. These include demanding studies, ongoing, complex nursing essays, and practical training, to name just a few. And, if you add to all of this the role of a single parent, everything becomes even more difficult and frustrating at times. Every day, I face my own unique set of challenges. Here’s a brief glimpse into my life as a nursing student and a mother of an amazing junior school-age boy.
- Demanding coursework. College life as a nursing student means dealing with complex subjects, medical terminology, and a lot of coursework all the time. I spend long hours studying, attending lectures, and participating in clinical rotations.
- Practical training. One of the most important parts of nursing education is the practical experience we gain during clinical rotations. Learning how to care for patients and give them medication while staying late at the hospital is both rewarding and challenging. During these rotations, I often have to ask someone to stay with Louis.
- Relationships with peers. Having good relationships with classmates is beyond important. When you are studying one of the BSc courses (Hons), group study sessions can be a lifeline. However, it is not always easy for me to find time to participate fully in them because I have to take care of my child.
- Morning rush. A nursing student’s morning always starts extremely early; my mornings start even earlier. Before classes, I have to take care of Louis first and foremost. Having a peaceful morning coffee is something I haven’t had in a long time.
Source – Giphy
- Parent-teacher meetings. In my life as a nursing student, I have to allocate time for communication with my son’s teachers. For me, it is important to stay involved in Louis’ education. However, parent-teacher gatherings at school often clash with my duties at the nursing school. In such cases, I fully rely on open communication with the professors and working together to find a solution.
- After-school care. Due to the specifics of my studies and my part-time job, I am unfortunately often away from home. I have to take care of my son’s after-school care to make sure he is safe while I am at school or work.
- My son’s homework and that of mine. When I return home in the evening, it’s time to help Louis with his homework, cook dinner, and spend some time together. One of the main challenges of my typical day in the life as a nursing student is to manage all of this with my own studies and work shifts.
- Weekend juggling. Studying five days a week is hard. While many nursing students may enjoy weekends off to relax or socialize, at least half of mine are often spent juggling my son’s extracurricular activities, my own study sessions, and essential household chores.
College Life as a Nursing Student: My Typical Study Routine
Balancing nursing school and motherhood is no small feat, and an essential part of my life as a nursing student involves keeping a structured study routine. Here’s what it looks like.
- Early mornings
My day begins with the first light of dawn. I find that early mornings are the most peaceful time for studying. Before Louis wakes up, I save the first couple of hours to review lecture notes, read textbooks, and prepare for the day ahead at the university.
- Short study breaks
Once I’ve dropped my son off at school, I use this time to review flashcards, watch educational videos related to nursing topics, or catch up on any assignments.
- Independent library sessions
When I have a longer break between classes, or after I finish my lessons for the day, I often head to the library. In my life as a nursing student, the library plays the role of a sanctuary for uninterrupted studying. I deeply appreciate this quiet environment.
Source – Giphy
- Study apps
I use various study apps, blog article selections, online resources, and e-books on patient care to make the most of my studies. They provide flexibility, allowing me to learn even when I’m at home with Louis.
- Group study sessions
In the evenings, once my son is in bed, I really try to participate in group study sessions with my nursing school classmates to prepare for seminars. These sessions always help me clarify doubts and test my knowledge. They’re not as systematic as I’d like because of my parenting responsibilities, but they’re incredibly helpful when I can attend. My perfect day in the life of a nurse is when everything I’ve planned is actually done.
- Bedtime review
Before I turn in for the night, I briefly review the day’s key nursing concepts, check the completed tasks, and make a to-do list for the following day. This guarantees that my life as a nursing student is organized, and I’m ready to tackle the challenges that lie ahead.
In general, my typical study routine is making the best use of every free moment through effective time management and dedication to my goal of becoming a nurse.
My Day in the Life as a Nursing Student and a Working Mom
Life as a nursing student and a working mom is a constant juggle of responsibilities where every minute counts. Here’s what my typical day looks like:
4:30 a.m. – 6:30 a.m.: Rise and shine
The day begins early. I wake up at 4:30 a.m., ensuring I have enough time to get myself ready for the day. After a quick shower, I study, get Louis up, and help him get ready for school.
6:30 a.m. – 7:30 a.m.: Drop-off and commute
By 6:30 a.m., Louis and I are out the door. I drop him off at his elementary school, making sure he’s safely settled. Then, I head to the university, bracing myself for the busy day ahead. The commute can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.
8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.: Nursing school
My classes and clinical rotations occupy the majority of my day. From 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., I’m immersed in the world of nursing. This time is dedicated to lectures and gaining practical experience with patients in real healthcare settings.
Source – Giphy
3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.: Pickup and after-school activities
Once my classes are over, I rush to pick up Louis from school, usually around 3:00 p.m. If he has after-school activities like football, this is when they begin on that day.
5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.: Part-time job
By 5:00 p.m., I transition to my part-time job at the Giant Food store. I work there to support us financially. It’s a challenging shift, but it’s necessary to make ends meet. I’m an adult that has to provide for my family.
9:30 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.: Average bedtime routine
On days when I work, my son is already asleep when I come home. I pay the nanny and go to kiss him. After that, I review my nursing school materials, work on assignments, and plan for the following day at the university. Yes, being a nursing student is tough.
12:00 a.m.: Lights out
By 12.00 a.m., I call it a night and try to get some much-needed sleep. A day in the life of a nurse is finally over, and I can dream of a vacation in Bournemouth one day.
Helpful Tips to Balancing Life as a Nursing Student and Single Mom
I’ve been blending nursing school and motherhood for quite some time now, so I think you’ll find my helpful tips to balacing life as a nursing student, wife, mother, and employee handy.
- Create a schedule for a week that accounts for your classes, study time, work hours, and your child’s needs.
- Efficiently manage your time by setting specific goals and breaking your day into manageable chunks. Doing so, you’ll make sure you are on the right track.
- Reach out to friends, family, or trusted individuals for support with childcare, transportation, or even emotional support.
- Keep open communication with your professors, work supervisors, and your child’s school. Life as a nurse student is hard, so let them know about your struggles and ask for assistance when necessary.
- During your study sessions, eliminate distractions as much as possible.
Keep all your learning materials, important documents, and schedules well-organized. - Studying five days a week is hard. Plan and prepare simple, healthy meals in advance to save time and minimize stress.
- Keep a close eye on your budget and finances. Look for scholarships or grants specific to nursing students and single parents.
- Make the most of the time you spend with your child. Quality time is essential, even if it’s limited.
- Understand that you can’t do it all. Be realistic about your nurse’s capabilities, and don’t be too hard on yourself.
Always keep in mind that life as a nursing student clinical, it’s worth it. Your motivation will drive you forward even when things get tough.
Concluding Remarks on the Life as a Nurse Student
I have shown you a day in the life of a nursing student who is also a mother. I’m not going to tell you that everything comes easy to me, and I don’t have a hard time at all. However, no matter how tough it is, remember that hard work will pay off in the end. Yes, studying in nursing school is extremely demanding, and motherhood does not make it any easier. Yet, if you are persistent and not afraid to do your best, you will succeed. I truly believe that!