Home Stretch

I’m in the home stretch before this program begins!  Maybe home stretch is the wrong word; I’ll use that when I am almost done with this program.  I have 5 days left of freedom!

I have been busy these last couple weeks.  Erin has a new great nephew that we have been to visit a couple times.  My parents and brother came to Philly a couple weekends ago.  We also just went to DC to visit Erin’s brother and boyfriend for the weekend.   Busy and exhausting; but all worth it.   Erin and I have also made some home improvements.  Erin trusted me to refinish our office floor (thanks to FE for some advice and tools!!) and paint our bedroom.  I find these home projects to be a BIG stress reliever and can now enjoy the new paint and shiny floor.  It gives me a sense of accomplishment, which is huge right before I start nursing school.

The emails have been flooding my inbox these last couple weeks as well.  Our program coordinator is on top of us making sure we are getting our “to do list” completed and just checking in to make sure we are doing ok.  Our program coordinator is amazing.  We had the opportunity to briefly meet her at the Meet and Greet.  She made a quick introduction; made sure we all ate pizza and then had to run to class.  Any time I have emailed about a question, I get a reply quickly and always with an answer or the means to find the answer.  I have been so impressed with the organization, support and friendliness of the staff thus far.  The current students expressed how much support and how the professors and advisors all want the students to succeed and they do everything in their power to assist students.  One of the most valuable things I have found so far has been from the current students; they have given us words of wisdom. They have taken time out of their busy schedules to write a few words of advice, and also given us their contact info to be available for any questions of concerns we may have.  One of my favorite words of wisdom from a student:

“BREATHE – just when you think you are at the end of your rope, the course is over and you have a break.   I know that this program is hard and is in such a short time frame but it is important to relax, take things in stride and don't let other people hype you up. If you were accepted to this program, you are capable of succeeding but don't let other people get you all freaked out about exams, worry about yourself and have confidence that you can do this.  Also make time to go out and have fun! Yes this is nursing school but this is also an opportunity to meet new people and explore a new avenue of your life, you can't work all the time!!” 

I will need to read this frequently over the next 14 months.  Deep breath. 

My anxiousness is, at times, overwhelming.  I feel the stress already, but I am telling myself to embrace this time.  I can do this.  I am fearful of the unknown and terrified of failure.  I am not sure how insane it will be yet.  I am not sure how I will get all my reading and studying done.  This will also be the first time in years that I will not have regularly scheduled time with kids!  I am excited and sad about this.  I have already forewarned my friends with kids that I may stop by to get in some baby snuggles, toddler high fives and play time.