Current Boss Sabotaged Nursing School app.

[ishootu]

So I found out today that I didn't get into the local vocational school's LPN program.

What's the big deal? It's not because I did poorly on the test or my high school AND COLLEGE transcripts weren't good enough (I already have a BA), or even that there were better qualified applicants.

It's because my current boss didn't fill out a character survey. Therefore, my folder was considered incomplete and I could not be considered for admission.

I asked the director, and her words were "your test scores were some of the highest and had we had that for you, you would've been in."

NOW WHAT? I am so angry I can't see straight.

(PS I know about 2nd degree BSN's, diploma programs, etc. I have 2 little ones under 2 and the night part time LPN course would've worked best for our family)

[cheergirl33]

I can only imagine how angry you are!!! Are you in a position where you can ask your boss why he neglected to fill out the form for you?

[mykidzmom]

if you were to get your boss to write you one now with an apology for it's tardiness. she could say she thought that your grades (etc) would stand out enough that they wouldn't have even bothered with the character letter. then ask if you could submit it anyway. can't hurt to ask. worst they would say is "sorry dear, maybe net time"

you must be spittin'bullets man. good luck.

[kcochrane]

Seems to me that they would realize that asking a current boss to write up a character survey might be a problem in some cases. Do they not realize that not all bosses are eager to help their workers move up and on? Can you use someone else to do that character survey?

[ishootu]

There are no exceptions, just knowing that I'm "towards the top of the list" for alternates. I went over his head. I work in the financial industry right now and our regional leader is an ex-nurse so I asked her, even though she hasn't had as much contact with me.

But still, no exceptions, having my regional manager do it is simply to be considered as an alternate.

Thanks for sympathizing. May be a little bit longer than I expected until I get to join you guys in full discussion- but I'll get there.

[donnasRN]

Sorry to hear that. Most schools look for letters of recommendation/character letters from employers so the next time you ask a manager for one and they agree, stay on top of them to make sure it gets done before the deadline. What I've done is have everything sent to me (i.e. transcripts from all schools attended in sealed envelopes, recommendation letters, etc.), and once I have it all in my possession I mail out my completed application. Hope this helps for the future, good luck.

[Batman24]

I agree with annod81. I followed up on my application to be sure everything was received as things can get lost in mail, misplaced, etc. It's imperative to do so in a timely manner so situations like this can be avoided.

Good luck and I hope you get in as an alternate. Many time alternates do get in so be prepared to go.

[donnasRN]

You can also write it yourself and have your employer sign it to make it easier on them. I've actually been to a few open houses where the Dean of Nursing has suggested doing that if your boss doesn't have the time to. But, they have to agree with it of course. Whatever the outcome, remember you can't rely on anyone else but yourself to get this completed in a timely fashion. Best of luck.

[metal_m0nk, BSN, RN]

This might not be helpful to you, OP since it seems you've already solved the problem as much as you can...But to others who may be viewing and are wary of soliciting a character reference from a current employer - it might help to consider any professors or teachers you've had - from high school, college, what-have-you. Most academic program directors find it highly appropriate to have academic references, seeing as how the pursuit itself is academic.

Good Luck to you OP! I hope the situation improves!!

[kcochrane]

Keep us posted if you get in.

[AOx1]

I always tell those applying that people sometimes don't do what you expect, but often they will do what you INSPECT. In other words, if you need a reference, ask really early, then check on it periodically by calling the school to ensure it was received. If not, call the person you asked for the reference and ask again. Sometimes this takes a few cycles. It shouldn't, but it often does. I'm glad the regional has agreed to write you a rec.

If you decide later to continue your education, there are also some great online RN programs that might fit with your schedule as well.

[DolceVita, ADN, BSN, RN]

Sorry to hear that. Most schools look for letters of recommendation/character letters from employers so the next time you ask a manager for one and they agree, stay on top of them to make sure it gets done before the deadline. What I've done is have everything sent to me (i.e. transcripts from all schools attended in sealed envelopes, recommendation letters, etc.), and once I have it all in my possession I mail out my completed application. Hope this helps for the future, good luck.

I agree. Hopefully they knew they had to do this but you have to keep on top of them.