If you're in the travel nursing profession, you may have considered continuing your education in order to get a more advanced degree. While this approach can pay huge dividends in the long run, it can also be a difficult undertaking. Nursing can be a demanding job on its own, so combining it with a course load may feel like too much to handle.
It doesn't have to, however. With a few simple tips and some thoughtful time management, balancing your nursing job and your continued education doesn't need to be impossible.
Plan ahead
Before you even sign up for your courses, you should think carefully about what your goals are, how much time you can realistically devote to studying each week and how your job will affect your ability to complete your work. The first question you should ask yourself is "When will I do the work?" Knowing how much time you can set aside for school should determine how many courses – if any – you sign up for.
Instead of automatically surrendering your free time, it may be wise to err on the side of caution and take on a smaller course load at the beginning of your program. If you prove that you can handle this amount, you can always add another class in the next semester. The last thing you want is to let your job performance or studies slip unnecessarily.
Consider your home life
Many travel nurses maintain vibrant home lives even as they move around the country. This scenario doesn't necessarily preclude you from resuming your studies, it just means you should be aware of certain changes you may need to make. One way to find time for your education is to institute a few notable changes to your routine in the house.
One way that some people with travel RN careers make time for education is by relying more heavily on child care alternatives. Whether this means hiring a babysitter a few times a week or asking your spouse or another family member to help out in a pinch is up to you, but having a plan in place before you get buried in your studies is essential.
Continuing your education is a great way to expand your career opportunities down the road, so it is a worthwhile investment for many. Applying these tips can help you get the most out of your studies without sacrificing your work or home life.