would like to hear if anyone went from np to crna, or if that would make one's goals seem clouded. would becoming an np to show ones graduate level success be counterproductive, or should i just take some pathophys and biochem to show my ability?

Becoming an NP would require a lot of time and money invested. What would be the point of that if you want to be a CRNA? The two fields have very different focuses and very different educational styles. Have you by any chance followed both a CRNA and an NP? That may give you a good idea which "feels better" for you. You are going to put lots of blood sweat and tears (and tuition) into any program so you want to make sure it is the right field for you. My wife is half way through her NP program and she is burned out.

Now to answer your question....I would just take graduate patho or bio chem, most schools will let you take one or two graduate level classes without applying (or if you "say you are going to apply but want to take a class or two before hand"), don't skimp on the quality ICU experience either.

Jayva

Take the extra sciences. I don't think having an NP will help. In fact if you applied for CRNA school immediately after graduating NP school, I believe that would be a reason for pause by the selection committee. It would look like you don't really know what you want or are a professional student. The more advanced science classes would make you stand out and letting them know your strong desire to be a CRNA. IMHO