10 Things You Should Do in Your Last Year of Nursing School

These tips for nursing students from experienced nurses can help you succeed in your last year of nursing school and give you an advantage in the nursing job market.
Your final year of nursing school can be overwhelming, with classes, practical training, preparing for the NCLEX-RN exam, and searching for your first job as a registered nurse (RN). It’s an exciting time, and these suggestions from nurses who’ve been there can help you stay healthy, explore career options, and get ready for a successful job search.

Here’s how to make the most of your last year of nursing school with advice from nursing professionals.

10 Essential Tips for Your Last Year of Nursing School

Your main goals are to graduate with excellent grades, prepare for and pass the NCLEX-RN, and find a satisfying job in your new role. While there is high demand for nurses, top employers present stiff competition. Being prepared can make a difference in finding your ideal job. Additionally, exploring different nursing roles helps you figure out what suits you best. Lastly, prioritize your mental and emotional well-being during this busy time.

Taylor Sadarananda (MSN, RN), Nidhi Avichal (BSN, RN), and Courtney Cioka (MS, RN) shared their expertise on how to succeed in your last year.

Avichal’s main advice for your final year: “Have confidence in your education and the skills you’ve practiced. Enjoy every moment of it.”

1. Save Your Nursing Notes to Study for the NCLEX

Passing the NCLEX-RN in a timely manner is crucial. You need a break to recharge but not so long that you forget important information. Sadarananda suggests, “Don’t wait too long to take the NCLEX. Rest for about two weeks and then study for two to three weeks. Aim to take it no more than a month and a half after graduating.”

Sadarananda also recommends keeping “all your notes on medical/surgical/adult health, as they’ll help you study for the NCLEX and retain essential knowledge.”

2. Explore Your Career Options

Throughout your studies, you’ve likely encountered various nursing jobs. However, your ideal career path might be something unexpected. Talk to career advisors, join nursing groups on Facebook or LinkedIn, and connect with your school’s alumni network to learn about what recent grads are doing. Alumni may be willing to share their experiences and help you make valuable connections.

Avichal says, “There are many directions you can take with a nursing degree. Stay open and explore different specialties; you might discover something surprising.”

3. Research Different Hospitals or Employers

Finding the right job involves looking at the role, work environment, and workplace culture. The more you know about different hospitals and settings, the better equipped you’ll be to choose what suits you.

Sadarananda advises, “Consider which unit or type of nursing will benefit you most. Critical care has its challenges, while medical-surgical nursing provides a strong foundation for various opportunities.”

Take your time to explore individual employers. Speak with teachers and graduates, use websites like Glassdoor.com, and connect with as many people as possible to understand work culture and how organizations support nurses.

4. Try Out Different Roles

Shadowing allows you to experience various roles, settings, and cultures. The more experiences you gain, the better decisions you can make. If possible, shadow roles that don’t initially interest you; this can either confirm your preferences or reveal new paths.

“Take those shadowing experiences seriously. Observe how the team works and handles challenges. Talk to as many staff members as you can. Look beyond surface impressions. This helps you discover where you’ll truly be happy,” says Cioka.

5. Work as a CNA or Student Nurse Before Graduation

Being a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or student nurse provides professional experience, helps you build connections, and offers references from your supervisor or colleagues.

Sadarananda suggests this because “you’ll become more adept at basic patient care tasks (like bathing, assisting with toileting, and communicating with patients) and feel comfortable in a hospital setting.”

Cioka reminds, “Even as a student nurse or CNA, you’re an employee. Your actions and behavior shape your professional image and how others perceive your leadership qualities.”

Taking it step by step and making a good impression can be invaluable.

6. Create a Personal Portfolio to Stand Out

Although there are many nursing job opportunities, the best ones are competitive. To distinguish yourself, Avichal advises creating a portfolio that’s even more powerful than a resume. She says, “My portfolio includes photos of community service, patient nominations, and samples of educational presentations and projects I led.”

A portfolio showcasing your dedication, leadership potential, and impact on patients can set you apart. Choose carefully what to include and ensure it’s relevant to the job and organization, just like you would customize your resume.

7. Get Ready for Interviews

Research potential employers beforehand and prepare thoughtful questions. Most career centers offer mock interviews and provide constructive feedback. If they don’t, practice with peers or others in your network and record yourself on video for later review. If you get nervous, learn techniques to relax.

Cioka reminds, “Remember, most managers just want to have a conversation. Be genuine, be yourself, and try not to feel anxious.”

Remember, the goal is to find the right match, not just any offer.

8. Don’t Hesitate to Ask Questions

Never hesitate to ask questions in class. If you’re confused, others likely are too. Even if they’re not, it’s better to clarify now than risk giving the wrong answer on a test or in a real situation with a patient.

This applies not only in the classroom but also during shadowing or interviewing. Asking questions demonstrates your interest and engagement and shows that you’ve prepared for your experience. Just ensure your questions aren’t already answered on the website or in any provided materials.

9. Balance Your Life

Your final year of nursing school can feel overwhelming. You have classes, exams, NCLEX-RN preparation, job exploration, fieldwork, and shadowing or gaining work experience. Plan your studies to avoid cramming at the last minute. Also, prioritize sleep, healthy eating, and exercise. These practices might take time, but they give you the energy to use your time effectively.

Cioka advises, “Make sure you maintain a healthy balance between work and life. If you’re working as a student nurse, avoid overcommitting. You don’t want to get burned out or jeopardize your chances of getting hired as an RN later on.”

10. Take Care of Your Mental Health and Avoid Comparisons

Everyone progresses at their own pace and brings unique backgrounds to nursing school. Comparing your success to others’, especially when viewing their best moments on social media, can lead to unfair self-criticism. Remember that you never know the full picture of someone else’s situation and struggles.

Cioka advises, “Comparing yourself to others can lead to unnecessary stress. Make your own path. You might surprise yourself by the end of your journey.”

If you’re facing emotional challenges, utilize the counseling and mental health resources your school provides.

Common Mistakes Students Make in Their Final Year of Nursing School

Some nursing students focus only on the upcoming semester or year without considering how it fits into their overall career.

Sadarananda cautions against rushing into critical care too soon, whether during practicums or as a first job. She says, “New graduates often struggle in critical care right after school.” Instead, she suggests starting with medical-surgical nursing for a strong foundation.

Avichal emphasizes the importance of building a network early on. “A mistake students make is not utilizing resources and networking. It’s never too early to start. Your clinical instructors and alumni can become your future colleagues.”

Cioka advises students not to overcommit and to discuss career plans with their manager if they’re working as a student nurse or CNA and want to continue as an RN.

What Nurses Wish They Had Known Before Finishing Nursing School

Nursing school is challenging, and Sadarananda emphasizes that the difficulties persist. “Nursing is one of the hardest professions you’ll ever undertake. It requires strong, brave nurses to care for patients, but the rewards are priceless.”

Avichal recommends obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree early on. This step led to promotions and enrollment in an MSN-to-DNP program later. “Getting my BSN opened doors I’m grateful for.”

Cioka advises planning but also encourages flexibility. “Your career path may change, and that’s okay. I didn’t plan to be a manager initially. Let your experiences guide you.” She also suggests interviewing for multiple positions before accepting the first offer. “You might be surprised. Don’t settle for the first opportunity.”

Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Final Year of Nursing School

The last year of nursing school is tough but can also be joyful.

Sadarananda advises savoring the year and forming lifelong friendships. She says, “Money isn’t everything. Choose where you have the best opportunities for growth.”

Avichal encourages you to enjoy this time of transition. “Feeling nervous is normal. It’s a new chapter in your life.”

Cioka concludes by recommending a support system and a backup plan for nursing challenges. She suggests taking a break after passing the NCLEX-RN before starting a job. “Give yourself time to recover before jumping into a full-time routine.”

Their advice, along with that of your mentors and peers, can lay the groundwork for a successful nursing career. Good luck!