This winter I applied to a Psych NP program (which I won't name at this point) and was not invited for an interview, I emailed the point of contact for the program asking why i didn't make the initial cut and was told "We had a very large number of applicants this year and I believe you were in the group that had a lower GPA prior to nursing school."

My GPA in nursing school was 3.47. I graduated from college with a BA in Political Science over 10 years ago with a GPA that was 2.9x. My recommendations were immaculate and from 4 different sources (a professor from my nursing program, the doctor I work with daily, my nurse manager and a colleague who completed the program).

I am looking at other options, and plan on applying to other programs, but I am gun shy. I feel extremely discouraged that the classes a blew off when I was a teenager are going to mess up my chances to become a NP.

Looking for any advice or recommendations for programs that look at the whole picture rather than deny you an interview based on your grades while getting an unrelated degree over a decade ago.

Thank you all in advance.

I know it is easier said than done, but don't be discouraged. I think some schools are having to consider any and every thing to narrow the field. The volume of qualified applicants allows for much discretion on the part of the school. Many of the applicants have gone into nursing knowing they were going to pursue higher education and have maintained a high GPA for that very purpose. However.... I believe that there are schools out there that do not consider your grades as a teenager. In fact, I know this to be true. I also have a previous degree and my grades right out of high school were dismal...and yet, I have been accepted into a couple of programs. I don't know what part of the country you are from to offer any suggestions. But if you want to share, myself or others may be able to suggest some options. Don't give up. Your GPA is competitive and you have good references. I am sure you can find a program. Good luck!

Our stories are almost identical. First thing I want to say is DON'T GIVE UP!. I myself blew off a few classes as a 17 year old studying business. Later I changed my focus and completed ADN & BSN programs. My last 60 hours 4.0, my ADN degree was 3.9, overall nursing 4.0 but I was denied by my first school. I was devastated. I have 12 years ICU/ED experience and great references as well! My overall gpa according to CAS was 3.33 due to my mistakes as a 17/18 year old. I have now been accepted to my first program and awaiting notification on 2 others. Keep trying and keep your head up!