[thyme39]

I know of 2 hospitals in my area (MI) that offer $20,000 toward your CRNA school tuition in exchange for 2 years working after you graduate. At least one of them also offers health insurance while you are in school (for you only not family). Is this common for hospitals to do this? Is it advisable to take an offer like this? Has anyone done this and how did it work out?

Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks

[NMB IVP]

I am currently on scholarship with a hospital that I used to work for. I am still happy with the decision that I made because of the circumstances. It would take me forever to explain. Basically, alot has changed at this hospital in the short time that I have been gone. It doesn't look like they are going to have an opening for a CRNA when I graduate. The good thing is this: If they don't have a job for me, I don't owe them anything. I'm free and clear.
That's my story in a nut shell. My best advice for you is Don't take the money. As long as you can make it without the dough, don't take it. Health Insurance is not a problem. Any school that you go to will offer you health insurance at a super cheap rate. I've got it through my wife's job, but most of my classmates have it through the school.
Stick it out without the money if possible. You are going to get so many offers in school. You can go about anywhere and get a sign-on bonus of $40,000. Just take out the loans that you need and keep your options open.

[FLTraumaRN]

I would say for you to read the fine print of any contract very closely. It usually is not very attractive. My hospital offers a scholarship also, but I did not accept it after I read the fine print. My hospital offers a much better package as a sign on bonus after school. Plus, some hospitals will send the scholarship money to the school. The problem with that is that is decreases the money you can get from stafford and grad plus. So, you still need private loans.

I would just say to explore your options. Use it as a fall back plan if you can't get loans or if you run out of money during the program.

Good luck!