In Need of a New Nursing Shoe???

In Need of a New Nursing Shoe???

Am I the only one who is very picky when it comes to my shoes??? I have been searching high and low for the perfect clinical shoe. I am excited to announce that I have finally found it! You will not believe that I was able to get them for free too! That is right, the entire purchase was FREE99. I was able to use cash back from prior purchases through Amazon and I could not be happier with this product. The shoe that I have is the Crocs Neria Pro II.

According to Crocs:

Women’s Neria Pro II Clog
Who is Neria? She’s dependable and ready to make the rounds with protection and comfort every step of the way. This updated version includes removable, washable foot bed liners. Designed for a relaxed fit—a little movement in the heel is normal—adding a dose of freedom without sacrificing the security of a closed shoe. Perfect for workers in healthcare, restaurant, retail and any other demanding “on your feet” industry.

Women’s Neria Pro II Clog Details:
1.) Enclosed toes and heels meet workplace standards.

2.) Fit is relaxed, with extra room in the back of the heels for easy on and off.

3.) Enhanced arch support adds to the comfort.

4.) Fully molded, easy to clean with soap and water.

5.) Triple Crocs Comfort™: contoured molded foot bed with moisture-wicking liner
Crocs Lock™ slip-resistant tread.

I can attest that what they claim is true. So if you would like to purchase. Here is the link:

https://amzn.to/2D6JgS5

Also, I did a full product review. Watch below if you would to see it.

Working While in Nursing School???

Working While in Nursing School???

This tends to be a question that comes up a lot when making the decision to go to nursing school. It is a very valid question and can be viewed from various angles. From my personal experience, it is all person dependent.

Since I knew about my acceptance into the program 6 months in advance, I had time to prepare. Before making a decision, I explored all options. My first thought was to reduce hours to part-time. However, that plan fell through when my employer of five years would not allow it.  I figured I could possibly find another job comparable to the one I already had. However, when looking at pay there was a drastic difference. I was then left with no choice but to quit.

This was by far the hardest decision I had to make in life. Despite of, I knew it was the leap of faith I needed to have to put me in a better position. So I saved for 6 months as much as I could before quitting my full-time job. I have not looked back since. I think that this has contributed to my success during my first quarter of nursing school as well (I will do a follow up post in regards to Q1). Below are some factors to consider when making the decision to work while in nursing school.

Factors that contribute to if you should work:
1.) Flexibility of Job- Are they generous on PTO? Will they be understanding that school is priority? Do they allow a temporary leave of absence?

2.) Job Position- Usually jobs that have fancier titles are the ones that requires more work. While, some positions you may have mastered it, which may allow for down time to do other things once work is completed.

3.) Pay- If you are able to make a significant amount money, then you could potentially work less hours. This will allow more time from studying and school work.

Other factors to consider:

1.) Class Load- The number of classes taken, the amount of assignments and/or exams given, the days and hours of clinicals, etc.

2.) Time Management- If you can effectively study within a reasonable amount of time that can potentially free up time for other things not school related. This means totally getting rid of the procrastination habit if applicable.

3.) Prioritize- Understanding that school comes first and everything else is second behind it. Making use of a good planner is also helpful. This will allow to keep a log of task that need to be completed and helps you to stay on top of things. Link on where I got mines is here.

May Designs Planner: https://amzn.to/2HKMrCS

I may not have touch on every single thing. However, I feel that these are some of the most important. After you have evaluated you personal circumstance, then you will be able to determine if working is possible for you.

Although I have yet to experience what it is like to work while in school thus far, I will eventually explore the possibility. Whether you choose to work or not is a personal decision. Although people give their opinions often, only you can decide what will ultimately work for you.

Be sure to check out my YouTube Video on this topic as well.

 

What I Wish I Knew Before Nursing School!

What I Wish I Knew Before Nursing School!

Being a first quarter nursing student has been quite the journey. As the quarter is coming to an end, I would like to point out four things that have resonated with me.

1.) Textbook are SUPER expensive.

This is somewhat a no brainer but nursing textbook are even more costly than many textbook. Reason being, usually nursing text books are bundled with multiple text. This may be a pocket manual, digital access codes, eBooks, physical text, etc. Most of my professors opted for these text and on average the price range is usually $400 and up.

2.) Classmates can be VERY competitive.

You would think that when you start in a cohort that you will eventually become close with all your peers. However, some of your peers may not feel the same way. Nursing school can get pretty segregated as people tend to cling on to people they identify with. This is not necessary a bad thing, but it can be when people become reluctant to share things like notes, tips, recordings, and study guides. That brings me to my next point.

3.) How IMPORTANT having an ally is.

These will be the people you run to in the time of need. They will be there to help you when you fall short and also support you through school. They will be the ones you lean on when times get tough. Often times, these people will become more like close friends and family. If you notice that you have certain people within the program that you have a bond with, strengthen those relationships. The relationships will prove to be valuable.

4.) CHALLENGING your professor is ok.

Oftentimes, we are reluctant to challenge a professor because we feel that are always correct. The truth of the matter is, they are human and can indeed make mistakes. Do not be afraid if you see something wrong or concerning. This can be something as simple as a weird test question, missing information in a question, vague answer choices, etc. You may find that others too have those same concerns. If no one spoke up, then you are doing yourself a disservice. Professors also respect this because it shows that you are proactive and care about your grade.

This is just a first quarter reflection. I am sure as the program progresses, so will this list. If you have any experience with any of these topic, please drop a comment below.