Tuesday, September 1st, 2015
SALUTATIONS FELLOW BLOGGERS!
This week is the beginning of the Nursing Program for Graduates of 2017 in my University. To say that I am kind of in shell shock is to say the least... but honestly, I've been going through shell shock for the past month prior to the start of the program. My mom had been drilling into me how strenuous and hard this program is, she kept on constantly reminding me that this is not a easy pass and is something that I'm going to sweat, cry and exasperate over. I wanted to let you guys know what I'm doing to steady myself and try to stay on top of things so that maybe I can help you guys, or you can help me even!
1) GET A PLANNER ASAP
A planner that has month calendars and also pages filled with slots for every day will be extremely helpful to you in the long run. As soon as you get your syllabus (syllabi), you need to map out your semesters. This means write down (on the monthly layout) on what days you have exams, quizzes, tests, assignments, papers, presentations etc due, that way you can always stay on top of them and never will have the problem of "I didn't know that was due..." because in high school, when that happens you're flat out of luck. It is YOUR responsibility and no one else's to know the syllabus front to back and know when everything is due because the Professors are not there to coddle you and hold your hand... If you do not want to go buy one, there are websites such as PassionPlanner.com where you can download a free planner (look around because you might like other ones too, but this one is just an example)
2) Establish good relationships with your Professors
This doesn't mean that you have to suck up to them and be the teacher's pet, but this means that you should introduce yourself so that they can put a face to your name when they see it. If something is going on in your life, DO NO hesitate to talk to them about it. Not all Professors are cold and heartless and you have to remember that were students at one point also and so if you're having a problem with something/someone, go to them and ask for their help or advice. Also, ask them about assignments and readings, because some have to be done before class while others have to be done, so make sure which readings and assignments should be done prior to class so that you come to class prepared and ready to learn at your optimum knowledge.
3) Steer clear of the bookstore
Textbooks are always one of the biggest hits in a college student's budget for the semester and if you go to the bookstore to buy the books, you might end up paying almost 3x more than you need to for your books! That money can go towards much needed caffeine and food breaks or even comfy sweats and blankets (priorities...)! There are a lot of fantastic websites out there that provides discounts on books, or used books (which look like new, or are in good condition and are at least HALF the price). These include but are not limited to:
(^I used this one this semester and highly recommend it)
Sometimes there are even groups on Facebook that you can join that are labeled "Buy and Sell [insert university name here]" and on there people will be selling textbooks from classes that they have taken but will never need the books from again. That is another excellent source, and you can get extremely cheap books that way.
4) Your Email is your best friend
Your email will need to be checked everyday, if not every hour. This is not an obsession, more like just a precaution. Your teachers' most likely mode of communication will be email since it is so convenient and fast so to stay on top of things, make sure that your email notifications are turned on for email. If you want to make things simple and organized, make folders for all the emails you receive. I have a bajillion folders in my email and that's how I keep my inbox clear and neat. I have a folder for every class that I'm taking that semester, that way after I'm done emailing a teacher about something, or after I have read an email from a teacher, I can just store it in her corresponding class. I also have folders for things like Sephora Newsletters, or all my textbook online confirmations of purchase, or recipes that I get to help me figure out what to make that's quick and easy for that day etc...
5) Make sure to keep up your health!
Throughout all my classes, I've been hearing the same message over and over again. "If you yourself are not well and healthy and are not taking care of yourself, how are you going to help others and take care of them?"
Some tips
1) Make sure to get enough sleep every night, at least 7-8 hours. This will ensure you are well rested and will not be falling asleep during clinical and mornings classes...
2) Make sure to eat a well-balanced diet. I know that as soon as we get into college, we start our penny pinching but really, this is your health we are talking about! Make sure to always load up on fruits and veggies and make sure you get your protein in! Chicken and Fish are cheaper alternatives to other meats and are still very healthy for you, providing you the protein and nutrition you need. 
3) Make sure you give yourself some pamper time once in a while. This could be a nice long hot bath for a night, with some soothing essential oils (Chamomile or Lavender are good choices for that), or a luxurious bubble bath that will make you feel rejuvenated. Do this before bed (not before you have to study!) that way you go to bed totally refreshed and unwound and you'll have a deeper and better sleep.
4) When you're studying, make sure to get up and walk around every 30 mins and get that blood moving throughout your body again. This will also help prevent muscle fatigue or numb limbs (or even thrombosis! which can happen! Your mother was not over-exaggerating like always...). Do some jumping jacks, or go and get a bottle of iced water or a nice cup of hot tea (I love earl grey since it has some caffeine in it and is a nice alternative to coffee).
Overall, you need to understand that the only way you are going to get through this program or semester or whatever it is you are battling is through focus, determination, organization, and sense of self. Know your body, know when it is time to put down the pen and go to bed. Don't stay out late with friends all night when you know you have an exam that's coming up and that you need to study for. However, do allow yourself some time for socializing and hanging out with friends. All work and no play is never a good thing, but know your limits and do all in moderation! Best of Luck to everyone and may you all be blessed! Have a wonderful day! :)
-Suzanochka-
