If I Were to Start Nursing School Again: 10 Things I Would Do Differently to Succeed
Hi love,
Nursing school is a life-changing journey. It challenges your discipline, sharpens your mind, and shapes your future. Looking back, there are things I would absolutely do differently if I had the chance to start over. Not because I didn’t try hard enough, but because hindsight always brings clarity.
If you’re just starting nursing school or in the middle of it, these are the ten things I would focus on to succeed academically, emotionally, and professionally.
1. I Will Always Go to Class
Showing up is the first step to success. If I were to start again, I wouldn’t skip classes unless it was a true emergency. There’s something about being present, listening to your professors, and participating in real-time that gives you an edge. Notes can’t always capture everything — but being there lets you absorb the full context.
2. I’ll Choose My Friends, Not the Other Way Around
Your circle matters in nursing school. If I had the chance again, I would be intentional about who I let into my space. I’d choose friends who are focused, respectful, and supportive — people who bring peace, not pressure. It’s okay to be selective; this journey is too demanding to carry unnecessary distractions.
3. I’d Skip Study Groups, But Keep a Few Study Buddies
Study groups can be helpful, but only if they’re efficient. If I had a do-over, I’d avoid large, unfocused groups and instead stick to two or three serious study buddies. Smaller groups help keep you accountable without the noise or wasted time.
4. I Will Study Every Day
Even if it’s just for an hour, daily study builds consistency. In nursing school, content piles up fast. If I studied a little each day, I would stay ahead of the curve and reduce last-minute cramming, stress, and burnout.
5. I Will Do NCLEX Practice Questions Every Day
NCLEX-style questions aren’t just for the end — they’re for every day. I would integrate practice questions early and consistently. It helps reinforce content, improve critical thinking, and prepare your mind for the actual exam format.
6. I Will Make My Own Notes
Taking notes in your own words helps with understanding and memory. If I started again, I’d create my own notes instead of relying on handouts or shared files. Writing things down helps you process information better and makes review so much easier.
7. I Will Have Time to Have Fun
Burnout is real. If I had the chance to do it over, I’d make sure to carve out time for myself — to laugh, to relax, and to enjoy moments outside nursing. Balance is essential. You’re human first, student second.
8. I Will Network During Clinicals
Clinicals aren’t just for learning skills — they’re for making connections. I’d take more initiative to introduce myself, ask questions, and build relationships with nurses, preceptors, and staff. Networking can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
9. I Will Have My Dream Specialty — But Stay Flexible
It’s good to have a dream. I had mine too. But if I could start over, I’d stay open to other possibilities. Sometimes the path you didn’t plan leads to the most rewarding experiences. Flexibility doesn’t mean giving up — it means growing.
10. I Will Stay Prayed Up, Stay Positive, and Speak Affirmations
Faith and mindset are everything. If I had to start again, I’d lean into prayer, stay grounded, and affirm myself daily. Words have power. In a field as demanding as nursing, you need spiritual and emotional fuel to keep going.
Nursing school will stretch you, but it will also shape you into someone stronger than you ever imagined. If you're starting out, let these lessons guide your path. And if you're already in the thick of it, it's never too late to reset and refocus. Your journey is valid, and your future is bright.
You’ve got this — one day, one choice, one prayer at a time.
