[SA Girl]

I'm thinking of changing programs from a 21-month(Fri and Sat class only) LVN program to a 12-month(M-F) program, but I am having doubts. I have 3 kids with one being a year old. I need some encouraging words as to others who have had small demanding little ones. From what I have heard the 12 month program is very intense, a lot of work, and then some. I just want to know if there are others out there who can say, it can be done because I did it.

[TheCommuter]

Moved to the LVN Student forum for more replies. Good luck to you!

[labcat01]

It can be done! I only had one child at the time but I managed my 18 month BSN program and it was hard. I never would have made it but for the grace of God and one incredibly supportive husband. So, I think the key to surviving is having a good support system. If you have that and you think you can manage being away from you kiddos do it!!! Good luck, I know what a hard decision it is to be away from your babies.

[NICUplease]

I think a good support system is key. Spouse, family, and relatives can help so much. If you have that, I think going for the 12 month program is best. Its more fast paced but only half the time. I will be starting an RN 1+1 program in August. I have a supportive husband but no family close by. So, really... I'm going to have to do this with the help of only my husband who is not so reliable because he is active duty in the NAVY and to make things worse, he's on sea duty which means he can leave for months at a time whenever the govt feels like taking him. If you really want this, it CAN be done. Oh yea, make sure your finances are right too. It'll be difficult to get through school if you are short on cash! I've heard too many stories of students dropping midway through the program because they couldn't afford to pay the rest of the tuition and provide for the family. Just think, 12 months from now, you'll have a good job that pays well, and you and your baby can go back to your normal lives. If it were up to me, I'd rather sacrafice 12 mos rather than 24 mos! Whatever you decide, good luck and dont give up. IT CAN BE DONE!!!

[scorpiostudent]

I would do it! Just think of how much more time you will have to enjoy your little ones once you're done with a 12 month program!

I have an 8 mo old and a 2 1/2 yr old and a 13 yr old and am a nursing student and working part time. Its going to be a tough year, but its a small price to pay for the amount of benefit. Think of it this way... its kinda like removing a bandaid. Would you rather do it quick and get it over with or do it slow and have it hurt longer? Its going to be tough on your family either way. Better to do it fast and be done, if you think you can get the grades. The only way I would take a slower program is if I did not think I would be able to pass a faster one.

[1uvakindmom]

I am starting a full-time LPN program in Sept (M-F) and I have a 9 year old, 4 year old, and a 2 year old. I will also be working part-time. It can be done! My program is very intense as well, but I just think to my salary at the end of the 10 months and think it is much more worth it than going to the part-time program. I think you will be fine!!!
~Missy

[1uvakindmom]

I like the band-aid analogy!!

[rnmomtobe2010]

I do wish you all the luck in the world. I basically became a single parent over-night and I have two kids...(6 & 2)...It has to be done and all I can think about are my babies...I know I am in for a rude awakening, but whatever decision you make...you can do it...