Lessons in Discipline and Resilience

Nursing school is a challenging journey for anyone, but the discipline and resilience I gained during my time in the Navy played a pivotal role in helping me navigate its demands. From overcoming self-doubt to mastering complex material, my military background taught me the value of perseverance, organization, and teamwork—skills that became indispensable during my nursing education.

In this article, I’ll share how my Navy experience shaped my approach to nursing school, the lessons I learned along the way, and advice for others embarking on a similar journey.

A Military Start to My Nursing Journey

At 19, after two years in the Navy, I decided to pursue a career in nursing. Initially, I wasn’t sure whether I wanted to focus on medical or surgical nursing, but my first classes helped me find my path. The Navy had instilled in me a sense of discipline and adaptability, but transitioning from military life to academic life presented its own set of challenges.

The Challenges of Nursing School

Like many nursing students, I found the coursework demanding. Coming from a non-academic background, I struggled to grasp the material and organize myself for exams. Here’s how I tackled those challenges:

• Group Study Sessions: Studying with peers was a game-changer. Meeting in libraries or at each other’s homes allowed us to share knowledge, collaborate on projects, and motivate one another.
• Time Management: My Navy training had already taught me how to manage time effectively, but nursing school pushed me to refine those skills even further. Balancing coursework, clinical rotations, and personal life required meticulous planning.
• Physical Adjustments: Long hours of studying took a toll on my body. Staying physically active and prioritizing rest became essential to maintaining focus and energy.

Lessons From the Navy That Helped Me Succeed

The Navy prepared me in ways I hadn’t fully appreciated until nursing school. Here are the key lessons I carried with me:

1. Discipline and Focus:
   The Navy taught me how to stay disciplined and approach challenges with a clear head. In nursing school, this translated to sticking to a study schedule, meeting deadlines, and staying committed to my goals.
2. Teamwork:
   Just as I relied on my fellow service members in the Navy, I leaned on my peers during nursing school. Collaboration was essential, especially during clinical rotations and group assignments.
3. Adaptability:
   Nursing school is unpredictable, much like military life. Whether it was adjusting to a new clinical environment or tackling unexpected hurdles in my studies, adaptability was my greatest strength.
4. Resilience Under Pressure:
   The Navy instilled a “never give up” mentality. Even when nursing school felt overwhelming, I reminded myself that every challenge was an opportunity to grow stronger.

Clinical Rotations: Where Knowledge Meets Practice

One of the most rewarding aspects of nursing school was clinical rotations. These hands-on experiences allowed me to apply what I’d learned in class to real-world situations. From observing basic vital signs to assisting surgeons during procedures, each day brought new lessons and challenges.

The Navy had prepared me for high-pressure environments, which made clinical rotations less intimidating. I embraced each opportunity to learn, knowing that every skill I gained would be crucial in my nursing career.

Advice for Aspiring Nurses

If you’re considering nursing school, here are some tips I wish I’d known from the start:

1. Start Preparing Early:
   Build a strong academic foundation in high school or during your first college years. Focus on subjects like biology, anatomy, and math to ease your transition into nursing coursework.
2. Use Study Groups:
   Don’t underestimate the power of collaboration. Learning from peers and sharing perspectives can help you grasp challenging concepts.
3. Stay Organized:
   Invest in a planner or digital tools to keep track of assignments, clinical schedules, and exams. Time management is critical to staying ahead.
4. Take Care of Your Body:
   Nursing school is physically and mentally demanding. Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and exercise to maintain your energy and focus.
5. Embrace Mistakes:
   Everyone makes mistakes in nursing school—it’s part of the learning process. Instead of fearing failure, view it as an opportunity to grow.

Beyond Graduation: The Journey Continues

Graduating from nursing school was a proud moment, but it was just the beginning of my nursing journey. The skills and knowledge I gained during school prepared me for the NCLEX exam and my first nursing job. Today, I work at one of the top hospitals in my area, balancing a fulfilling career with the demands of patient care.

The resilience and discipline I developed in the Navy continue to serve me well in my profession. Nursing is a field where every day brings new challenges, but also the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on someone’s life.

Final Thoughts

Nursing school is one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences you can undertake. For me, the Navy provided a foundation of discipline, teamwork, and resilience that helped me overcome obstacles and thrive in my studies.

To anyone considering nursing as a career, remember that the journey may not always be easy, but it’s worth it. Surround yourself with supportive people, stay organized, and embrace the challenges as opportunities for growth. In the end, your hard work will lead to a career that’s both fulfilling and impactful.