Re: Any African American CRNA's around? Originally Posted by CandyGyrl 
I'm just curious to know if there are any African American CRNA's or SRNA's currently that can give me a little insight on your experiences either in school or in the workplace? Not to bring race into the issue but I was just curious.
I was once told that you've got to have "thick skin" to go into this career because it's not very inviting to begin with-- but
some will have it tougher than others. For the most part the person informed me that some schools are relatively gender driven {Men over Women} and then race becomes a factor after the men have been taken into consideration {white
women over black
men} And then black men? Finally black women. All other minorities {asians, indian, etc} are considered before blacks.
This really broke my heart as it was the most ridiculous statement I'd ever heard. It shook my confidence and made me really question myself about going into this however I really want this.
I'm really embarassed to post it but it's been heavy on my mind ever since I was told and I just finally got enough courage to discuss it and get peoples opinions on these experiences. I'd like to hear from American and Non African Americans in regards to this. Maybe Non-African Americans have witnessed things or come in contact with individuals who've either gone through it or have themselves been guilty of mistreatment while in the program.
Please inform.
lsebeg:
Hello candygirl
I am an AA SRNA in the Philly area and I have not had any problems thus far. There are about four minorities in my class of 21.....and I dont think the have any issues either. Our class is pretty cordial...I would not say close...but we all eat and chat togehter. Everyone have there own click that they study with..but that's everywhere you go, however we all typically try to help everyone out though.
As far as thick skin...yes you certainly need thick skin to survive because you cant cry or take personal every little thing that someone say wrong or out the way to you.
Also, dont listen to what other people say...find out yourself.....if you want it....go get it. Prepare yourself and just do it.
Good Luck
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