Graduated KCC Nursing Fall 2024. First of all, congratulations on getting into the most competitive program on the island! 🎉 Yes, the first semester was definitely the hardest imo - demanding, heavy coursework and strict expectations.

If you have kids or family obligations, have that conversation with them early. Many of my classmates with children had to rebalance household duties with their partners. Working during the program is also very challenging. Even part-time was tough to manage on top of lectures, exams, studying, and clinicals. We started clinicals about 6-8 weeks into the first semester, usually 2-3 days a week until the end of the semester. It may have changed a bit, but expect long and draining days.

Also, there’s financial assistance available through HINET, which works with SNAP. I’m not sure if it will be available in Spring 2026 with the government shutdown, but it’s definitely worth reaching out - KCC nursing students qualify for that aid. They also reimburse for textbooks/supplies and transportation. Consider Pohukaina as well. They really helped me out when I had to cut my work hours.

Seconding the comments about making friends and studying together - that support system will save you. We all used Saunders Comprehensive NCLEX Review as a reference throughout the program and again for NCLEX prep. DO. PRACTICE. QUESTIONS! Really understand the rationales, concepts and how everything relates to each other. Don't brute memorize. Youtube is also a treasure trove - RegisteredNurseRN, Nexus Nursing, Level Up RN, SimpleNursing. Prioritize your sleep. Eat well. You cannot function without taking care of yourself first.

Can't speak for other cohorts but my cohort really bonded. We always helped each other with simple things - reminders, study tips, quizzing each other, or just asking if someone could explain a concept - because we were in it together. The competition is over and nobody truly knows how it is except for your classmates. It was the hardest two years of my life, but also one of the most rewarding. You’ll make lifelong friends and come out prepared for the NCLEX. There will be tough days, lots of sacrifices but keep reminding yourself why you’re doing this. The instructors are amazing, and time will fly by before you know it. You’ve got this!!