What to Expect

Nursing students need a good bedside manner and a solid foundation in medical science.

Jeremy Lawrence took nursing at the University of Mississippi. He says nursing education can be difficult at times. "The first and second semester you spend more time in class, and it's very tedious, though there are some clinical days which provide a pleasant break," he says.

He enjoyed the later part of the program more. "During the last two years, you become more responsible for getting actual clinical work done. You schedule clinical times with a preceptor in the hospital. And there are other projects you have to stay on top of."

Sean McIntyre enjoyed his studies. "The studying was difficult at times, but it was fulfilling, too. As a man, I sometimes felt outnumbered, but really the expectations were the same for everybody. It was just a little awkward finding study partners at times."

How to Prepare

"Study hard," says former nursing student Melanie Dyke. "You will need it. This is the time to become devoted to being a lifelong learner."

Lawrence says it's important to have a variety of experiences in high school. "Be involved in clubs in school and in the community," he says. "Be a leader, and challenge yourself in everything that you take on. Establish a balance in your life between school and living."