Top 10 pieces of advice for undergrad nursing students
Nursing schools across the country are seeing an uptick in applications, and Binghamton University’s Decker College of Nursing and Health Sciences is no different. Over the past year, the college has experienced a 33% increase in applications to its undergraduate nursing programs.
With so many people considering nursing school, BingUNews reached out to students in our undergraduate nursing program and asked them what advice they have for new nursing students. Here’s what they had to say:
1. Get involved on campus
Decker College has two nursing clubs, the Nursing Student Association and the Mary E. Mahoney Nursing Support Group. Both clubs hold a number of events each year and are a great way to meet other nursing students. But, don’t forget to explore the 450+ other clubs and organizations Binghamton University has to offer because an outlet outside of nursing can be helpful.
Gerard O’Reilly, class of 2022
2. Your peers are your friends
Nursing school is a unique experience that only your peers can fully understand. If you’re worried or stressed about something, chances are your peers are as well. Reach out for help or just to make new friends! Your peers are probably looking for someone to go on this wild journey with as well.
Madison Tierney, class of 2023
3. Remember your calling
Despite the number of exams, early clinicals and sleepless nights you’ll experience, remember that nursing is your calling. This field isn’t designed for just anyone, so always try your best and keep your head up!
Flora Lei, class of 2023
4. Time management is key
You’ll be taking a lot of classes each semester, each with its own set of homework and exams. It can be easy to get overwhelmed. To stay organized and on top of assignments, having a planner to manage your time has been a lifesaver for many nursing students. Filling out a planner, whether it’s online or on paper, helps to outline to-do lists for each day as well as keep track of due dates. If you’re not sure where to start, try out Binghamton’s success coaching.
Michelle Kushner, class of 2022
5. Take a break
Inevitably, you’ll be spending long hours in the library and waking up at the crack of dawn for clinical rotations. However, taking quality time off from schoolwork is crucial to avoid burnout. Make school a priority, but always make time for yourself and your mental health.
Lauren O’Malley, class of 2022
6. Figure out how you like to study
Finding the right place to study can really help you to feel more prepared and decrease your stress. You may find that you prefer to study in Bartle Library or the Science Library instead of your room. Do you prefer to study in a group or on your own? Figuring out what works for you will set you up for success.
Gerard O’Reilly, class of 2022
7. Reach out to faculty
Faculty within Decker College are some of the most supportive and helpful people you’ll come across during your time as an undergraduate nursing student. Don’t be afraid to go to office hours, whether to ask questions or just get to know some of the professors. They may seem intimidating at first, but they really want to help you succeed.
Madison Tierney, class of 2023
8. Take advantage of interesting opportunities
Decker College offers fun and exciting opportunities that will enhance your time as a nursing student. Administering flu shots, participating in special events through the nursing student organizations, swabbing for COVID-19, unique opportunities in clinical like going to the operating room, job opportunities in local hospitals and standardized patient simulations are just some of the things you can take part in (and even make some money). Now is the time to say “yes” and learn all you can while having fun.
Lauren O’Malley, class of 2022
9. Use Decker College and Binghamton University resources
Decker College’s Division of Advising and Academic Excellence provides student advising and has a variety of resources. New students are assigned to an academic advisor whom they meet with to discuss registration or any Decker-related questions. The division also offers peer advising, where students can meet with current nursing students to ask any questions they have. Plus, Binghamton University offers helpful resources like success coaching, tutoring, counseling and more. Don’t be afraid to try these resources out.
Gerard O’Reilly, class of 2022
10. Practice makes perfect
No one said nursing school was going to be easy and there will be times when you’re frustrated. The only way to master a skill or ace a test is to study and practice over and over until you get the hang of it. Remember, everyone learns and excels at a different pace!
Flora Lei, class of 2023