Choosing to further your studies as a nurse is an excellent decision. You will gain more career opportunities, allowing you to earn a higher wage and work in your chosen specialty. As exciting as this opportunity may be, it doesn\u2019t come without its challenges, especially if you\u2019re working alongside your education.<\/p>\n
Fortunately, you will find success if you stay organized, work hard, and follow the right advice. Here\u2019s how to juggle nursing and further your studies:<\/p>\n
Study Online\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n Going to university and attending work can prove too much for some nurses, especially if both areas are far apart \u2013 you might spend more time traveling than working! To avoid this, why not choose to study an online course?<\/p>\n Studying online comes with many benefits, including the chance to choose your work environment, fewer travel costs, and more time to yourself. There are plenty of online courses for nurses out there, so whether you want to become an FNP or a nurse anesthetist, you can do so without having to attend a physical classroom.<\/p>\n Have a look at Marymount University<\/a> for online nursing programs to advance your career. Not only will you boost your career opportunities, but you\u2019ll also ensure your nursing role isn\u2019t compromised.<\/p>\n Let Your Manager Know\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n As someone who has previously advanced in a nursing role, your manager will understand the extent of your obligations. So, instead of keeping your studies to yourself, let your manager know that your time is stretched thin. While they may not be able to reduce your hours, they might be more understanding when you say no to working extra hours or taking over another\u2019s shift.<\/p>\n Not only that, but your manager may even provide you with great advice on advancing, especially if you plan on becoming a nurse manager yourself.<\/p>\n Choose to Go Part-Time\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n This isn’t applicable to all nurses, but if you have the option, going part-time will lessen the load. Your first option is choosing a part-time course, which will take you longer to complete but will give you more time on each module.<\/p>\n The other option is to ask to go part-time in your nursing role. There are a few obstacles here, including reduced pay and your manager saying no, but if it\u2019s possible for you, then it\u2019s worth looking into. If it manages to improve your studies, then, in the end, it would be worth it!<\/p>\n Study on Your Commute\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n Your work commute doesn\u2019t have to be empty hours \u2013 use the time for extra study. This is especially helpful if you get the train, bus, or a lift to work, as you could pull out your study books and go over the notes you have made.<\/p>\n This may not be as easy if you drive to work, but there is a way around it. If you\u2019re cramming for an exam, instead of listening to the radio on your way to work, you could record yourself speaking your notes. It\u2019s a simple way of getting more information into your head while using your time wisely!<\/p>\n Speak to Other Nurses\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n The best advice you can find about juggling nursing and studying is right in front of you. Many of your co-workers have been where you are now, so why not ask them about their experiences? Even if they didn\u2019t go down the same path you are on now, they might be able to provide some handy tips to achieve your goals.<\/p>\n Manage Your Time Wisely\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n When it comes to studying while working as a nurse, it\u2019s all about managing your time<\/a> wisely. This is easier said than done, especially when it feels like all your spare time is taken up by nursing.<\/p>\n Start by creating a schedule at the beginning of each week. By doing this, you make sure all your time is going to something productive, even if that\u2019s just some time to yourself to rejuvenate! You could also look into reducing your morning routine. If you spend a full hour getting ready in the morning, for example, there are probably ways to cut down on that time, such as taking a shower the night before or making your clothes easier to find.<\/p>\n Make the Most of Your Breaks\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n As a nurse, your breaks are essential. While you should always take some time to relax, while you\u2019re furthering your studies, you need to make the most of every minute, including your breaks.<\/p>\n Instead of scrolling through your phone or catching up on the latest news on your breaks, why not spend the time studying<\/a>? By taking your textbooks to work and catching up on the latest assignments, you might even give yourself a spare hour to relax at home.<\/p>\n Keep a Study Diary\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n A study diary will help you keep up with your assignments, classes, and deadlines. Purchase a physical one<\/a> and keep it on you at all times so you can refer to it wherever you are. This way, when someone asks you for your time, you can easily see whether you can spare it.<\/p>\n You should also schedule your studying hours and stick to them religiously. After all, it is better to spread your studying time out rather than cram all the material in at the last minute!<\/p>\n Utilize Technology\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n Technology is a massive help to all students and workers, especially those who study online. By using tech, you can keep up with your course mates, create schedules, keep your health in check, and research on the go. There are plenty of apps for students<\/a>, so have a look at some of the best and use them to go alongside your studying.<\/p>\n Create a Study-Friendly Space\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n Sometimes, it can be tricky to get into the zone, especially when you\u2019ve just returned home from a ten-hour shift. One of the easiest ways to focus is to have an area entirely dedicated to research and study. Don\u2019t worry if you don\u2019t have a separate office in the home \u2013 you can make this space anywhere, from your bedroom to your kitchen table.<\/p>\n Some simple ways to create a study-friendly space<\/a> include:<\/p>\n By doing this, once you sit down in your study space, your brain will be ready to focus.<\/p>\n Look After Your Health\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n Juggling nursing and studying will sometimes take its toll on you, and you cannot ignore this. By ignoring your health, you could end up stressed, irritated, and burned out, which could, in turn, lead to poor grades and underperforming at work.<\/p>\n\n