Advice for RN to BSN Online Students
Nurses with chaotic schedules may wonder, “How can I possibly find the time to go back to school?” After all, nursing is not known for downtime.
But with online programs, many registered nurses are finding the flexibility to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing online.
Ashlynn Capace, full-time nurse and mother, found a perfect fit with UL Lafayette's online RN to BSN.
“I worked on some assignments during a trip to Disney, I worked on some stuff at the beach,” says Capace. “I just loved that I could still have an active life even though I was in school. I think that was the best part.”
Just because the program is online does not mean it is easy. But grads and faculty members in UL Lafayette’s RN to BSN program have some advice to help students succeed.
As Capace found, “The professors at UL Lafayette supported us through it and understood we're balancing a lot of things. But at the end of the day, we still had to handle business."
Time Management Is Key
Without a doubt, a day in the life of a nurse can be hectic. That's why time management is so important for online RN to BSN students.
April Scott, a UL Lafayette RN to BSN grad and charge nurse, stresses the value of staying organized.
“I’d always start the semester by filling my entire calendar with due dates so I’m not surprised by anything. I made it a habit to check everything frequently, so I always know what’s coming up next week," she says.
"When you're online, it’s just a matter of staying ahead of the game.”
Scott says these habits helped her keep up with coursework while strengthening leadership skills she uses on the job.
Academic Coaches, Counselors and Instructors Can Help
Tracy King was a morning deejay. Then Hurricane Katrina struck, and she was inspired by disaster response nurses. After earning an associate degree in nursing, King chose UL Lafayette for her bachelor’s degree. She was impressed by the level of support, including from academic coaches.
“They walk you through every step,” said King, who sought help with new ways to use technology. “It’s not a cakewalk, but it’s totally doable.”
Scott was similarly impressed. “Not living in Lafayette, it can be difficult not being able to go to the office and talk to somebody. But the faculty has been really good about keeping me up to speed on everything and checking on me.”
Instructor Tara Horsley, RN, MSN, uses her own online experience to connect with students.
“My MSN degree was online, so I understand the fear and anxiety that comes along with it.”
Horsley stresses the importance of communication. Feeling overwhelmed?
“Contact your instructor,” she advised. “Set up a phone meeting or a virtual meeting with them.”
What About Multitasking?
It might be tempting to do laundry during a lecture, and that may not detract much from the task. But as Dr. Helen Hurst, Department Head for the Department of Nursing, advised, “Be organized and focus on your goals.”
Multitasking can result in “mental overload,” according to the American Psychological Association. This mental overload can cause a 40% reduction in productivity. Science Daily reports that multitasking while doing online coursework can significantly impede learning.
There are distinct benefits to earning a BSN. Dr. Debra White-Jefferson, assistant professor in UL Lafayette’s RN to BSN program, advises: “Establish a timeline and go for it!”
Learn more about UL Lafayette’s online RN to BSN program.
