This phenomenological research study investigated the lived experiences of students who did not succeed in completing a 4-year baccalaureate nursing school (BSN) program. The sample for this study included students who failed to completed baccalaureate nursing programs within the last ten years. The geographical area of the sample included students who attended schools in the central and south-western Appalachian counties of the state of West Virginia and the bordering counties in Ohio, Kentucky, and Virginia. A total of 18 participants were interviewed and the interviews were recorded so the data would be collected in a systematic way to facilitate data analysis. There is little empirical data regarding retention in a BSN program and students' views as to why they were unable to complete their BSN program. Further research is needed to understand nursing student attrition, especially students' perceptions, which would help nurse educators identify nursing students' needs, review program's policies, and possible curriculum changes needed to help students successfully complete their nursing program.