already on the highway

OK so I just started cdl school yesterday. I really struggled with shifting gears when I was put in the drivers seat. I had a hard time with everything. I never drove a car standard so it was all new. Anyway after about 45 mins I did get the concept down but couldn't downshift. Now today I was put back in the truck and off to the industrial park we go. I still struggled finding the gears but way better than yesterday. We drive out the park and onto a highway. I'm like dam a highway already. I survived but needed the trainer to tell me how to downshift and such and I understand the concept way better. So my question is, was it normal to be put in this position on my 2nd day?

 

I don't quite remember but I think I hit the highway my first day.
By the 3rd I was driving through downtown.
They'll go off your progress and push you, you should never feel comfortable. Every day is new ground and the second you feel comfortable with it they'll send you to take your test.
These schools don't want to waste any time on anyone. In and out policy.

 

In the hot seat is the best way to learn. I remember downshifting taking longer to master than up shifting.

 

I agree trial by fire and I don't mind. Its just nerve racking. I just find it hard to pay attention to cars, lane changes and merges when I'm still trying to figure out the gears and rpms.

 

Ya I understand what your saying. This school don't have a time limit on you to finish but I'm sure they don't want you there forever. They won't send you for a test unless they know your ready and you can come and go as you want

 

My shifting skills were passable prior to attending school. 2nd or 3rd lesson I was out on tight city streets. The added stress of traffic, tight turns and vehicles parked along the street definitely affected my shifting negatively for the first half hour or so. Once I gained a bit of confidence driving around other traffic my shifting got much better. The day we went down the highway to the scales and back was awesome. Holding a steering wheel is easy compared to navigating city streets lol.

 

You got this. I have faith in you.

 

haha. So I'm guessing its not uncommon then. My shifting skills didn't exist at all yesterday morning. I at least understand the concept now thoe. I just feel being on the highway negatively affected my normal/safe driving capabilities being nervous and trying to remember what gear I'm in.

 

Ya I'm positive about it. Just way harder and faster than I was expecting

 

The whole thing is hard. For a year you will be unsure about everything. Always learning. Then it all clicks in. And it's way easier. But it takes time and the pace is fast, relentless. After CDL school you go to a company and get trained. Then a trainer's truck. Then you are nervous in your own truck on your first load. Etc. etc.