[CaslaRN]

I have finally made the decision to pursue my dream of becoming a CRNA. Now that I am over that first bump, I am now scared of how I am going to pay for school and cost of living. I am currently working as an RN in the OR, I have been a nurse for 11 years (7 Med/Surg-Trauma), 4 OR). I know I need to go get some ICU experience and will look into transferring in to the unit ASAP.
Can anyone tell me how much they end up owing after graduating from CRNA school? Take in to account that I have 2 young children (5 & 7), a mortgage etc. I plan on erasing all debts except mortgage and car payments, + typical cost of living. With that said, did anyone borrow these costs as well as school cost? What would be an ideal option?

Also how difficult is it to get into the Mercer College in Macon Ga (if anyone is currently in this program to answer this question)?

My friend who is a CRNA told me he is hesitant to recommend me going to school because of the financial burden and the family stress associated with the CRNA program. I have a very supportive family network and believe we can make it although I worry my kids wll suffer (they have been the main reason why I have struggled with this decision, I want to be the best I can be for them), but I am just concern about finishing school and owing over $100,000 or more because I can not work and go to school.

Any suggestions, ideas, thoughts will be greatly appreciated.

[jaznaa]

Originally Posted by CaslaRN

I have finally made the decision to pursue my dream of becoming a CRNA. Now that I am over that first bump, I am now scared of how I am going to pay for school and cost of living. I am currently working as an RN in the OR, I have been a nurse for 11 years (7 Med/Surg-Trauma), 4 OR). I know I need to go get some ICU experience and will look into transferring in to the unit ASAP.
Can anyone tell me how much they end up owing after graduating from CRNA school? Take in to account that I have 2 young children (5 & 7), a mortgage etc. I plan on erasing all debts except mortgage and car payments, + typical cost of living. With that said, did anyone borrow these costs as well as school cost? What would be an ideal option?

Also how difficult is it to get into the Mercer College in Macon Ga (if anyone is currently in this program to answer this question)?

My friend who is a CRNA told me he is hesitant to recommend me going to school because of the financial burden and the family stress associated with the CRNA program. I have a very supportive family network and believe we can make it although I worry my kids wll suffer (they have been the main reason why I have struggled with this decision, I want to be the best I can be for them), but I am just concern about finishing school and owing over $100,000 or more because I can not work and go to school.

Any suggestions, ideas, thoughts will be greatly appreciated.

First things first: Transfer to ICU, establish good work relationships, get references and apply to school. Simultaneously, you can work on eliminating some of your debts and saving as much money as you can. I worked 2 jobs and picked up extra shifts the last year I worked before coming to anesthesia school. As far as the money is concerned, there are loans and scholarships available to pay for school. If I were you, I would be more concerned with making myself a competitive applicant (getting CCRN, ACLS, PALS, and taking some graduate level pre-reqs like research and theory). The money will come, acceptance into a program is the biggest hurdle, and its not easy. Applyng to anesthesia school is just as, if not more competitive than medical school, so if you're serious about it, it's gonna take some work. The minimum requirements will get you an interview, maybe. So, beef up your resume and good luck!

[CaslaRN]

Thanks Jaznaa
All your recommendations are already in progress.

[calirn2006]

keep a positive attitude. don't think your kids will suffer....it sounds like you have the support system you need to help with them. in the end you will serve as a great role model for them by getting a higher education! best of luck

[CaslaRN]

Thanks CaliRN. Good luck to you too!