Passing NCLEX After Your First Failure: Lessons learned from Churchill

Several years ago I was asked by the Chicago Chapter of the Academy of Medical Surgical Nurses (AMSN) to speak about nurse heroes at their Holiday Celebration. The AMSN Chicago Chapter President, Cora Palmer, introduced me to Myia. Myia had graduated from nursing school but had struggled to pass the NCLEX exam. Cora encouraged Myia to reach out to me for help and support. 

I immediately felt a connection to Myia…Why? Because she was determined to do whatever it took to fulfill her dream of becoming a nurse. 

Myia Thompson

Myia and I had several conversations on the phone and via the magic of Skype. I shared my popular blog posts on test taking strategies and offered her my best tips on how to pass a multiple choice exam.

When Myia took the NCLEX exam again, unfortunately, she didn’t pass. I was heartbroken for her. But Myia said she would just try again; she wasn’t going to give up until she passed.

And then I received the most wonderful email. Myia passed!!! She finally made her dream of becoming a nurse a reality.

What did Myia do that worked?

·      Myia asked for help

Myia knew she needed help if she was going to pass the exam. Myia read my blog posts about test taking strategies, we scheduled time to talk on Skype, and she spent time with other experienced nurses (like Cora) to make sure she took advantage of everything!

·       Myia did what it took to prepare

Myia took advice from me and several other nurses. She took practice exams after practice exams. She attended prep course after prep course. Myia did what it took and never stopped preparing.

·      Myia never gave up on her dream

Many people would have given up. But not Myia. Once she made the decision to become an RN, she wasn’t going to let ANYTHING stop her – no matter how long it took.

Just imagine if Myia would have given up after the 1^st, 2^nd and even 3^rd attempt. She wouldn’t be practicing a nurse today.

As Winston Churchill said so eloquently, “Never, never, never give up!”

Even if you've not passed the 1st, 2nd, or even 3rd time - NEVER QUIT!

Thanks for choosing to become a nurse. Take care and stay connected.

Renee

If you know someone struggling like Myia did, please share this blog post with him/her.