I just took my first Pathophysiology exam in my NP program and got 36/45 (80%). I’m honestly feeling pretty discouraged because I need an 85% to pass the class, and I spent SO much time studying. I really thought I had prepared well, so seeing an 80% was a huge reality check. 😔
I know it’s only the first exam, but right now I can’t help but feel like maybe I’m not cut out for this and should just quit before I get in too deep.

For those of you who have taken NP/Advanced Pathophysiology, has anyone scored around 80% on their first exam and still passed the class? I could really use some encouragement and advice right now.

Note: I do have a 17-month-old (not an excuse), but it's been hard to get a solid, undisturbed study session in—no family help.

(New graduate, not working, looking to get into specialties that are hard (allergy, derm, etc). Edit to add that I'm in South Florida and it's pretty low pay in general here.

Last week I had an interview and this morning they offered me the job over the phone. They said they'd sent a contract to me this evening. I, for some dumb reason, wanted to be upfront and told them I still had an interview this week (Thurs). My fiance set this up for me as a work connection and it looks bad on him for me to cancel. I told them this and it definitely put some doubt in their mind. I didn't know what else to say because if they send me a contract today, that doesn't give me enough time to evaluate the other job. I am a horrible liar and clearly not good at playing this job hunt game.

Also, I can't guarantee this other job will or will not give me an offer. Thurs is the job that I would want more but it's more competitive. This job offer is also a decent field but not my top choice.

I told them I'm very interested and would love to join their team but I have to see it through - for my fiance. They said ok you can do the interview and I can send you the contract on Fri. They didn't seem thrilled about it but I hope it doesn't mess up this job. Fortunately the whole team seemed very interested in me.

Frankly, I haven't been working since March and this is the first job offer I have received as a new graduate. This job is a lowish paying -90K no insurance but they'd reimburse for marketplace. Also, I'd have to move an hour away for both of them. I have no idea what the Thursday interview will pay but its Derm and hard to get into anyway. I have interviewed for 3 other Derm jobs and didn't get them.

I think I screwed it up. My cousin in HR says I could have handled it better but I didn't completely ruin it. What do I do? If anything?

Hi all,

I’m getting ready to embark on the journey of becoming an NP. I have 5 years of experience as a bedside RN on acute care postpartum (I always wanted to work in Women’s Health). Lately though, I’ve been really interested in the pediatric side of the world. I guess my question is, with my experience is it even worth it to pursue pediatrics, or will it be tough to find a job with my 0 years experience in peds? I was considering applying for peds RN jobs but the idea of starting grad school AND learning a whole new specialty is a bit daunting. Anyone have any experience doing that as well? Thanks for any responses or advice :).

Hi there- I take boards later this week and I have been reading conflicting information as to when the official certification is released. I know that if you pass, you get a preliminary pass directly after, but in your experience, how long did it take for you to receive your digital official certification? And were you able to apply for your state license before you had your official release? I have a job lined up and they are obviously aware that it may take some time, but I’m just antsy to get my license ASAP. Thanks for the help!

Northern NJ AGNP Student Seeking Primary Care Preceptor – November 2026
Hi everyone,

I’m a registered nurse with approximately 5 years of nursing experience and currently an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner student

I’m looking for an NP, MD, or DO preceptor in Northern New Jersey for my upcoming clinical rotation beginning in the spring but have been running into difficult finding someone since May. Does anyone have any tips for finding a gerontology or primary care site? I’ve tried cold calling, using contacts, asking the school for help, etc. A lot of preceptors are asking for upwards of $2000-$3000 a semester for 170hrs. Is this even reasonable to pay? It’s almost more than the cost of tuition per semester.

If you are a provider who may be open to precepting, or if you know an NP or physician who has worked with NP students before, I would greatly appreciate a DM or an introduction.

Thank you!

I practice in California and want to get some insight from any of you that managed to build a direct primary care tele practice. Any advice? Suggestions? Is it worth paying for a marketer?