ICU nurse with CRNA aspirations

[AuSaxon80]

Hello allnurses,

I come to you guys in need of some much needed advice. Quick back story, (I'll try to keep it short and sweet). I completed my first degree with a 2.78 gpa. Completed 40-50 post bacc credits at a 3.6 gpa. Applied twice to a 12 month absn. Graduated with honors, 3.728 gpa (every point counts in my case). Began working in an ICU at a level II trauma center. Have BLS and ACLS certifications, plan to take CCRN exam when eligible. I have hopes of applying to CRNA in 3-5 years, but I worry about my previous undergraduate gpa. Do you guys have any recommendations or advice to further strengthen my application moving forward? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

thank you

[gazpaz]

It all comes down to what classes you took and what your grades were in those classes.

Did is you take a biology class and get a C? If so, did you retake that class and get an A the next time around?

The overall GPA isn't as important as the science GPA and nursing GPA. If you have a low GPA because you didn't do so well in some required electives (history, religion) I think it can be easily overlooked and explained. Just make sure that any core nursing and science class has a good grade or was repeated for a better grade.

[phriz]

I had a 1.96 with my previous degree, and strong grades when I went back for my BSN, and was accepted to a CRNA program for Spring of 2016. Just like the above poster mentioned, make sure your science grades are strong. I personally met with my prospective school's director, showed him my transcripts, and asked if there were any classes he suggested I retake. Fortunately the only science class I took with my first degree was chemistry, so they asked that I take an online course at a local college just as a refresher. It seems like you've made all of the right moves so far. Make sure you get PALS, and shoot for a combined 300 on the GRE. Some programs also like it if you are an ACLS instructor. I recommend getting experience at a level 1 trauma center, although this isn't necessary. At the time of application I had 2 years of experience at a level 2, and 2 years at a level 1. If you aren't a strong writer then I highly recommend getting some assistance, because the letter of intent is one of the first opportunities to sell yourself. Most of all, stay positive!