I'm an LPN in TN. I am REALLY wanting to get my RN, here are my options:
1. Guaranteed slot in RN program with ETSU due to being a grad of Tenn Tech Center LPN program (they got a grant to allow this), this would be essentially free as I could use my GI Bill to pay for school (close to $2000 month in cash). All I have to do is my 4 prereq classes prior to Feb 2012, and classes would start in summer 2012 and last for 16 months and I would have my BSN (accelerated program). In addition, the Veterans admin may pay for the school and my salary while I go (if approved).
2. I could start on my LPN to RN (ADN) with Excelsior NOW, but have to pay for everything out of pocket.
What I'm thinking is to do both, as in, work on my 4 prerequisites now, while simultaneously working on my Excelsior tests with the hope of having my RN by Dec 2011, but with a back up of having the guaranteed ETSU spot just a few months away with BSN written all over it.
3. Finish my prerequisites and apply at a various number of LPN to RN programs around, but with no guarantee of actually getting a slot. The quickest one would be at WCU in NC, 12 month BSN (accelerated) with application period starting in Jan 2012.
What do you all think? Drawbacks seem to be time and money. By doing the Excelsior in addition to the 4 prereq classes, I'm paying double and out of pocket to boot. But IF I could pass the Excelsior then I'd have my RN much, much sooner than a graduation date of 2013 with BSN at ETSU.
