Study Tips from Hopkins Nurses

It’s finals week.

You’re probably a little anxious between getting all those chapters read and reviewing endless notes. Some of you may even be preparing for your NCLEX or certification exams.

No matter your track, the programs here are challenging. You may even think to yourself, “How the heck did I end up at Hopkins?” like MSN (Entry Into Nursing) student Adam Morrow.

But remember, you’re a Hopkins nurse and #WeGotThis! Here are 11 study tips from your fellow Hopkins nurses.

From Lourdes Celius:

#11 Studying with close friends isn’t always the best idea.

#10 Visit professors during office hours to help focus your studies.

From Adam Morrow:

#9 Sleep!

It’s incredibly important. I make sure my major study sessions are the day or evening before a test so my brain can synthesize overnight.

#8 Try not to study the day of an exam.

I found that it stresses me out. I may go over some stuff, especially math related content since that’s a weakness of mine, but if I don’t have it by the day before then I likely don’t have it at all.

From Emerald Rivers:

#7 Try studying by your personality type.

Use your Meyers-Briggs personality type to help guide your study habits. For example, as an ISTJ, I learn by repetition.

#6 Seek counseling to stay resilient.

Seek counseling to manage life’s challenges through the Johns Hopkins Student Assistance Program (JHSAP). Remember, you are brilliant but this resource helps with resilience!

From Kelly Polhemus:

#5 Take a break for your mind, body, and spirit.

Before my first ever Pathology exam, my TA Demetrius said, “Don’t just learn the material, take the time to care for your own health and well-being.”

I needed this advice as an eager but overwhelmed first semester student. I remind myself of Demetrius’ words often—it’s the key to being successful in your work and happy in your life!

From Jill Slattery:

#4 Try studying with a small group.

After you’ve taken the time to go through your notes, sit down with 1 to 3 friends and walk through topics taking turns to quiz each other on specific concepts.

#3 Write-down your study plan for the day and stick to it.

Set realistic study goals and dedicate specific time blocks to complete them. For example, plan to study pathophysiology from 8:00am-10:00am, then schedule time for a 15-30 minute break before turning to foundations from 10:30am-12:30pm.

#2 Disconnect from social media.

Delete Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook from your phone for finals week. If it is not easy to access, it won’t distract you, and may even help you feel less stressed. If deleting apps is too extreme, try turning your phone on “Do Not Disturb” or placing it in another room to keep you focused.

#1 We Got This!

Always remember, you have a school filled with faculty, friends, and community cheering you on! Trust yourself and remember #WeGotThis!

Read more: 

• Advice to Future Students
• How the Heck Did I End Up at Hopkins?
• MSN (Entry Into Nursing) Program
• Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Program

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: SYDNEE LOGAN

Sydnee Logan is the Social Media and Digital Content Coordinator for Johns Hopkins School of Nursing. She shares what’s going on here with the world.