Juggling class, work, clinicals, studying, and family, while attempting to continue some sort of social life is a challenge. And we at BluePrint for Success, think that every student is amazing for sticking with the program. Here's a "Day in the Life of" we are sure you can all relate to:

A Day in the Life of Sara Revella, Fourth-Year Nursing Student at Kent State University - Trumbull Branch

"Well, I can say one thing for sure. Nursing School is as big of a challenge as I suspected. I just finished my first semester of my fourth year and I think I have finally got the hang of studying and test taking. It's definitely overwhelming to open books as big as Webster's Dictionary and think "ok - I just have to be ready for anything!"

Sometimes, I really think our instructors are trying to break us - bring us to the edge of insanity - to see how we truly react under pressure. I have to admit, tears happen. And so do headaches and nail biting and late night phone calls to fellow classmates. And sometimes, late night phone calls to instructors for a last-minute confidence booster.

But - it's all worth it. And you know why? It's the light at the end of the tunnel, when we will step into our first career and actually use our knowledge and clinical experience and interpersonal skills to help people. To help those who may not have anyone else in their life. To help someone's grandmother, to help someone's father or sister or mother. It's an emotional roller coaster...yes. But it's our job. And when it's time, we will embrace it with open arms.

My Nursing School experience is probably a lot like yours. I work part-time at a day care, which really gives great help in building patience with children. I go out with my friends...during winter, summer and spring break that is. I read. I read a lot. I read a lot, a lot. And I have completed about half of my clinical experiences and am looking forward to some sort of externship during the summer.

What has really helped get me through the past few years is the support I get from my family, my fellow classmates, and my teachers at Kent State. Once you can prove to all of those people that this is what I want to do with my life - they walk with you and really give you a push when you need it.

And now, I would just like to shout out to my great friends in the nursing program - Jana, Becky, Amber, Lori and Duane. You Guys Rock!

Thanks for reading and I wish you all the best of luck during your schooling. And thanks to BluePrint for giving us some added support."

What's your story? We'd love to hear and share your story with other nursing students who are probably experiencing similar situations.

If your story is chosen, it will appear here!

Submit your story to Robert Schloss at robert.schloss@chanet.org and we may post it live.