Doctoral Nursing Education

Year 1 Survival Tips

O'Donnell, Mary Gemma RN, MSN, CCM
Helbick, Emily A. RN, BSN, CCRN

Mary Gemma O'Donnell, RN, MSN, CCM, is Assistant Clinical Professor, Northern Arizona University, College of Nursing, Flagstaff; and PhD student, Arizona State University, Edson College of Nursing and Healthcare Innovation, Phoenix, Arizona. Emily A. Helbick, RN, BSN, CCRN, is Clinical Project Manager, Palm Beach Accountable Care Organization, Palm Springs; and DNP candidate, Jacksonville University, Jacksonville, Florida.

The authors have disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.

Address correspondence to Mary Gemma O'Donnell, RN, MSN, CCM, PhD student, Arizona State University, Edson College of Nursing and Healthcare Innovation, 550 N. 3rd St., Phoenix, AZ 85004; email: [email protected].

Journal of Continuing Education in Nursing 55(4):p 157-160, April 01, 2024. | DOI: 10.3928/00220124-20240318-03

The inaugural year of a doctoral nursing program is a challenging transition from a clinical practitioner to a scholarly expert. Drawing on personal and peer experiences, we offer a comprehensive guide for thriving in this transformative period. Covering crucial aspects such as work-life balance, time management, research skills, and self-care, we offer insights to empower future doctoral nursing students, equipping them to confidently navigate the challenges and emerge as successful scholars in the field. [J Contin Educ Nurs. 2024;55(4):157–160.]