Preparing for Nursing School While You’re Still in High School

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, is a lifesaving skill that is required of healthcare professionals, and also a great skill to have in your everyday toolbox. Try a beginners certification or learn additional first aid skills provided in your community. In addition to gaining lifesaving knowledge, you’ll get additional insight into the healthcare fields for the future.

You will definitely want to have the required knowledge in math and science before beginning nursing school. Even understanding simple doses of medication and basic anatomy require a strong background in STEM subjects. Consider taking AP courses where available to give you a boost at the beginning of your college semester.

Commonly called the TEAS test, start prepping for the ATI Test of Essential Academic Skills. A prerequisite for many nursing programs, the national average TEAS score is around 65-75%; but many students require more than one try to achieve a passing score. Start studying and try taking your first test before high school graduation.

Nursing programs may vary from 18 months or longer up to four years or more. Many programs are competitive and you’ll need a way to stand out from the crowd including your electives and other scholastic activities. Make sure you have not just the required math and science but consider needed courses in English or a second language like Spanish or Chinese to provide a wider level of care once you start treating patients.

Nursing programs vary in cost, but in most cases, a shorter program like an Associate’s Degree will cost less than a longer program like a Bachelor’s or Master’s level degree. For any degree, tuition costs matter, so make sure to research available loans, grants, and scholarships that may apply to you. Don’t forget to include cost of living and books in your calculations.

Volunteering will let you test out your taste for the nursing area you prefer. Volunteer at a retirement home or a pediatric ward reading stories, or help stock supplies at a local clinic for the underserved. You’ll be supporting your community, learning valuable job skills, and it also looks great on your resume and college application.

One thing that seems pretty universal about nursing is that it is hard work (but worth it!). Nursing can involve long hours, high stress, and lifting. A fantastic way to prepare yourself for this work is to get a job while still in high school. In addition to supporting a great work ethic and valuing your time, you’ll also get the opportunities to practice networking with a team and hone your customer service skills.

Nursing school offers a fulfilling career path with unlimited potential for advancement. Place yourself on the road to this great career by preparing for nursing school while still in high school. Make smart choices in work and volunteer experiences and study, study, study. Clement Career College offers an outstanding, accredited Nursing Assistant Program. We pride ourselves in the education our students receive. We’re helping people like you every day achieve their career goals. Find out more about becoming a nursing assistant and schedule a tour of our campus today!