How to Go to Nursing School and Work Full Time: 10 Effective Strategies for Success

A significant number of nursing students, around 25%, manage their studies alongside part-time employment, while a few even manage to work full-time.

Though it might be a difficult feat, following certain strategies can help you effectively balance your academic and professional life, ensuring that neither aspect suffers due to the demands of the other.

Can You Attend Nursing School While Working Full-Time?

Many people have successfully balanced both working full-time and attending nursing school, primarily due to determination, a solid support system and honed organizational skills. Enrolling in a school offering flexible study plans can make this challenge more manageable.

When considering working while pursuing a nursing degree, consider the following factors:

• Motivation: Stay committed to both your job and nursing school.
• Support system: Surround yourself with those who encourage and support your goals.
• Organizational skills: Maintain a structured schedule to manage time effectively.
• Flexible nursing school: Choose a school with a flexible study plan to accommodate your work hours.

What You Need to Attend Nursing School While Working Full-Time

1. Maintain a Positive Outlook

To handle a hectic schedule, adopting and maintaining a positive attitude is vital. Along with determination and hard work, believe in your ability to juggle work and attending nursing school.

2. Build a Strong Support Network

Having a supportive group of people is crucial if you’re responsible for caring for a child or other dependent family members.

This network may consist of your family, friends, or even community members who provide the necessary help during your journey.

3. Identify an Effective Study Space

Find a quiet area where you can focus on your studies. This could be at home, a public library, or even a local coffee shop.

Consider your learning style and external distractions when choosing the right study area.

4. Create a Realistic Budget

If your expenses are not out of control, then ideally, you don’t have to work as much during school.

Develop a financial plan to cover daily expenses and tuition fees when pursuing your nursing education.

Assess your spending habits and consider making adjustments to save money.

Using a digital budgeting tool can help you stay on track and monitor your financial progress.

5. Use an Organizational Planner

To manage your work and school responsibilities effectively, consider using a planner. This can be a digital or paper-based system.

A mobile calendar app can provide notifications and reminders, while a physical planner like the ones from Blue Sky or Clever Fox allows for hands-on organization.

Steps to Succeed at Attending Nursing School While Working Full-Time

1. Look for a Flexible Job

Begin by securing a job that allows for a flexible schedule, as it will influence your nursing school timetable.

Work with your supervisor to obtain necessary schedule adjustments, or consider seeking new employment that is more compatible with your academic commitments.

2. Opt for a Nursing-Related Job

When searching for a new job, consider one that aligns with the nursing field.

This provides you with valuable hands-on experience and enhances your nursing resume.

Positions such as certified nursing assistants or phlebotomists in hospitals and nursing homes are worth considering.

The other nice perk of jobs like this is that they tend to be accommodating to the schedules of a nursing student.

This provides you with valuable hands-on experience and enhances your nursing resume.

Positions such as certified nursing assistants or phlebotomists in hospitals and nursing homes are worth considering.

The other nice thing about jobs like this is that they tend to be accommodating to the schedules of a nursing student.

3. Select a Nursing School Offering Flexible Programs

It’s beneficial to choose a nursing school that offers flexible study plans to accommodate job hours.

Many schools provide evening classes or online courses, which can be a great fit for those working full-time.

Another option is attending nursing school part-time while working full-time, although this extends your education period.

4. Develop a Daily and Weekly Routine for Work and Study

Planning is crucial for handling both work and school commitments.

Create a schedule that includes work, lectures, homework, study sessions, and personal responsibilities.

Start by organizing your activities in smaller time blocks and eventually transition to a weekly planner.

5. Establish a Dedicated Study Area

Preparing a conducive study space is essential for productivity.

This may include a comfortable chair, desk, adequate lighting, and other items that help you focus, such as headphones, a laptop, or calming music.

6. Organize and Engage with Your Support Network

Assemble a support system to help with childcare and household chores, allowing you to manage your busy schedule.

Discuss time expectations, create a master calendar, and ensure clear communication with friends and family members who serve as your support network.

7. Set Achievable Goals

Maintaining realistic expectations while juggling two full-time commitments is vital.

Focus on achievable goals and celebrate your accomplishments. Understand that perfection is not the goal during this period.

8. Maintain Your Financial Plan

Sticking to your budget is key to financial success.

Make room for unexpected expenses by having an emergency fund to help you stay on track with your financial goals.

9. Embrace Healthy Habits

Taking care of yourself is essential, so prioritize a healthy lifestyle.

Incorporate nutritious meals, regular exercise, and enough sleep into your routine. Engage in activities that help you unwind and recharge.

10. Seek Assistance When Necessary

Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your support system, colleagues, or professors.

Embrace the fact that during this busy phase in your life, you may need to rely more on the assistance of others.

Be open to their advice and input to help you overcome challenges and achieve your goals.

Have You Read These Yet?

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Frequently Asked Questions