Becoming a CRNA is challenging – physically, mentally, and emotionally. As SRNAs, we spend months (or years) preparing: retaking classes, saving money, and making time for loved ones. But preparing your support system is just as crucial. What does that look like if you want to make it through the journey together?
During my interview, the program director asked, “What does your support system look like?” I answered honestly, I had local family, friends, and a boyfriend who I’d explained the program’s demands to, and who wanted to support me. For the school, this wasn’t a casual question, it meant, who’s going to help keep you afloat?
If you’re in a relationship, you’ve probably heard the warnings: “People break up during CRNA school.” “This will test your relationship.” That can be true. But here are a few tips to help maintain and strengthen your relationship during this intense season—and honestly, they apply to family and close friends too.
I. Shared Vision
This advice assumes your partner is genuinely invested in the relationship. CRNA school is a test of both your personal endurance and your relationship’s foundation. If your partner doesn’t already have “buy-in” to your shared future, the pressure may cause it to unravel.
Before meeting my now-fiancé, I was clear: I was going to become a CRNA, no matter what. On our second date, I mentioned how rigorous the journey would be. As our relationship grew, I never lost sight of my goal—and we had many conversations about our individual ambitions and how we’d support one another. When I got into school, we revisited those talks constantly. His respect for my drive has made my dream our dream. Even when he doesn’t love the school stress, our shared vision keeps us grounded.
II. Communication & Setting Expectations
Strong communication is essential. Be proactive in explaining what each phase of school looks like—clinical, didactic, hybrid, front-loaded—and how it will impact your time and energy.
Only you fully understand your schedule and academic demands. My fiancé and I share a Google Calendar so he can see my clinical shifts, exams, and study blocks. This helps him plan around my availability, and I also block time specifically for us. For example:
“I have a big pharm exam Thursday. Monday through Wednesday will be intense study time, but Thursday night we can grab ice cream or watch a movie.
III. Making Time with Intention
Time management is your best friend in school. Every course requires different strategies—Pomodoro, Trello, time-blocking, scheduling. But no matter how packed your schedule, make intentional time for your partner.
CRNA school will become your #1 priority, but most partners just don’t want to feel forgotten. Quality time doesn’t have to be long or extravagant—it just needs to be mindful. And honestly, after a 10-hour study day, decompressing with your partner may be exactly what you need.
Making it through CRNA school is a deeply personal journey. Your “why” brought you here, and the right support will help you finish. If a relationship doesn’t align with your goals, it might not survive the pressure and sometimes, that’s okay. As @nurselifern’s Ebe says, sometimes you just have to “let that man go (mango—like the fruit).”
I started school with a boyfriend and will finish engaged. With commitment, grace, and shared goals, it’s absolutely possible to grow together through CRNA school. It’s a short-term sacrifice to build a long-term life—and yes, you can come out on the other side stronger.
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