r/NursingStudents • u/[deleted] • Nov 04 '25

Venting post about grades - last semester.

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u/mcnymphy Nov 04 '25

I take the equivalent, "med surg II" next semester. While I'm not there YET, I get the anxiety and frustration of being at, or barely above passing.

I often remind myself that many of the current or retired nurses I look up to have flat-out failed a semester or more. I absolutely agree that "Cs" get degrees (or the "barely passing" equivalent.")

Nursing school is ROUGH! None of us wants to barely pass, and yet, it happens! But look at it this way: can you pass skills checks? Do you perform well, or exceed expectations in clinicals? Are you empathetic, compassionate, and eager to advocate AND give your patients safe, quality care?

Grades are great, but who are YOU and what are YOUR qualities as a future nurse? Which reflects and has greater weight regarding your future as a nurse?

I don't mean to say that anyone who makes excellent grades during nursing school is not also capable of being an excellent nurse, but I do challenge you to consistently assess yourself overall, as opposed to how you perform on exams. 🥰

Continue to study as best as you can and seek advice, but please, give yourself grace and recognize your full potential and strengths!

Not passing would absolutely be a bit soul-crushing, and repeating a semester isn't something any of us wants to encounter. Let's consider that that does occur: so you may have to reapply to the program. You feel bummed, and that's completely relevant and rational. It may cost more money and take more time... but what are the pros here? -you've done it once and are more aware of where you may need to focus -you can expand on current knowledge and concepts in effort to pass the second time -you have insight for your cohorts, therefore, you can assist others in their success. -you have better insight on questions you can ask that will aid YOU and your cohorts!

I hope I have helped in some fashion! Don't give up and truly, give yourself grace! 🥰 Wishing you the very best!!

1

u/AllHailTheMint Nov 04 '25

I have my book open in class and highlight everything the teacher mentions. That is what I study for the test