So You Want to Be a Nurse?—Success Strategies for Nursing Students

This eBook originated from my experience as a nurse educator and academic administrator for a variety of nursing programs. I started my nursing career as a second lieutenant in the Army caring for those serving our country in the Vietnam War. My career has included working as a staff nurse, a charge nurse, a nurse manager, a chief nursing officer to a nurse educator progressing from instructor, professor emeritus to vice president of nursing. I want to share with you some thoughts and suggestions in how your journey as a nursing student may somehow be hopefully impacted by my “words of wisdom”. Students have limited resources to assist them in understanding what to expect in their journey to become a nurse. This short eBook is designed to provide a general overview to aid students, their families and/or significant others in gaining a better understanding of nursing schools. I offer my thoughts to you for whatever assistance they may provide you. Chapter 1 discusses some of the considerations and options involved in the decision to become a nurse and if it is your calling. Chapter 2 discusses various issues and consideration as you get ready for nursing school. Information is provided to aid you in deciding which nursing program is right for you including information on regulatory issues and the licensing examination. Admission requirements, tuition and fees, and financial aid options are also discussed. Chapter 3 discusses what you are going to need once you start nursing school. Understanding the curriculum is described on Chapter 5. Chapter 6 is the heart of the eBook providing you detailed information and guidance in how to be successful in mastering the nursing content. In Chapter 7, clinical expectations and competencies are covered while in Chapter 8, program evaluation is discussed. Chapter 9 describes a variety of extra curriculum activities that are available to students.