Student Success Stories Archive

Our Nursing students are anxious to share their personal stories of success! Whether they have just successfully completed their first Nursing exam, or are about to graduate from UMSL with their BSN, MSN, DNP or PhD, these stories are meant to encourage, inspire, and guide both current and future Nursing students.

October 26, 2012

This week's success story is from one of the students in our Traditional BSN Option:

"My success in nursing school is largely because of the amazing faculty at UMSL. All of my teachers have been more than willing to help me and make sure that I do not fall behind. I am also grateful I chose UMSL because I have not only found an amazing passion for nursing, but I have been exposed to some amazing people along the way. This includes the entire academic advising staff, Dr. Kimberly Allen, and Professor Kathy Lee, who is always willing to talk, call, or email to make sure that I am doing okay. I am now seven months away from graduating with my BSN. I have been transformed into a new person with the help of UMSL's nursing program. I would not have had things any other way."

October 19, 2012

This week's success story is from one of the students in our Traditional BSN Option:

"What has helped me to achieve success this semester is utilizing the skills lab during open lab hours. The professors in the lab are always so helpful and willing to answer questions. I feel more confident in my Fundamentals course and more prepared to go to clinical as a result. In addition, I attribute my success to our knowledgeable nursing professors, and of course, studying as much as possible!"

October 11, 2012

This week's success story comes from one of our students in the Accelerated BSN Option:

"Last semester was probably the craziest 10 weeks of school I have ever had, but I made it! I took a year off after graduating with my other bachelor’s degree, so trying to get back into the groove was rough. Luckily, my teachers were very helpful and calm. One thing that helped me the most was asking for help. If I was unsure of how to do something in lab, I would come in during off hours to practice. I had to overcome my ego and not be embarrassed to ask questions.

Another thing that helped me was reviewing my notes right after class. I would make a star by something in class that did not make sense to me. I would then go to my book and read that section for clarification. If that didn’t help, I would email the instructor. In addition, I had a study group. Not only did this help me with remembering the material, but is gave me the time to socialize with my peers. Being with people in the same boat as you are can really reduce your stress and feeling like you are the only one. If I had one suggestion, it would be to have a study group. Talking about the material will make more sense and will stick with you.

Finally, be organized! I cannot stress how important it is to stay on top of your schedule and make time for studying. It is very easy to get behind. Carry a calendar with you so that you can prioritize your assignments, tests, and papers and get everything done."

October 5, 2012

This week's success story comes from one of our students in the Accelerated BSN Option:

"I began my nursing journey with high expectations for myself. I was an “A” student and I expected nothing less from myself at the start of my nursing program. It was the night before my first Fundamentals exam, and I reviewed the PowerPoints, notes, tables, charts, and key points of every chapter. I felt completely prepared going into the exam, and after the exam, I felt successful. To my astonishment, I received a 76% on my exam. I could not believe I received a grade in which I barely passed, and I proceeded to confront the teacher and debate every question I chose wrong. I could not grasp the idea that even though I chose the “right” answer, it was not the best answer. Instead of trying to listen to what the teacher was explaining to me, I decided to shut down and blame the test and teacher for my grade. Having my next exam the following week, I did not change my study habits nor did I seek out assistance, and I made the same low grade. I was completely devastated and this time I blamed myself. I thought I was incapable of passing nursing school and began to doubt my abilities.

I work as a Patient Care Technician and eventually decided to reach out to my nurse manager, who is also an educator, for advice. Her tips for taking nursing exams changed my critical thinking from a regular student to a nursing student. Upon my third exam, I applied all of the knowledge my manager gave me. It took me a little longer to complete the exam because I caught myself in mistakes that I had previously made. I received a 98% on the exam and continued to excel the rest of the semester. Nursing tests are not like any other test I have taken before, and instead of becoming discouraged, I listened to my teachers, peers, and changed my thinking. Remember, the teacher is not there to trick you; he/she is there to help you think critically. Accept the teacher’s answer and try to understand the reasoning for that choice. Good luck future nurses!"

September 28, 2012

This week's success story comes from one of our students in the Part-Time Evening/Weekend BSN Option:

"I am married with two children. I feel that I have a story that is unique in a way. I started nursing school like many at the community college taking classes at a very slow pace. I got married during that time and continued taking classes. I also had my children while going to school at night. It was a full-time program, and I was also working full-time. I completed a semester, but fell short and did not pass. I did not give up! Around that time I decided to have another child. Nursing school NEVER left my mind! While I was working at Washington University School of Medicine, I was able to obtain the additional credits I needed to attend UMSL's College of Nursing for my BSN. I made an appointment with my advisor, Christina Vanatta. I must mention that she encouraged me and made me realize that I could do this. The UMSL experience is one that I am enjoying. It is not easy, but my advice to anyone is to follow your dreams. Currently, I am married, have two beautiful children, and following a dream that will come true."