Not all nursing programs are created equal...

Published Aug 23, 2012

144 Posts

I started nursing 100 in the summer semester this may, fortunately it didn't work out and I was accepted into another program for the fall. The first program was an ADN program at our local community college and is the only program close to where I live. I had a bad feeling from the start, I knew several people who were already in the program, and though they went into their first semester eager, excited, and ready to become great nurses it wasn't long before they were holding on for dear life and making back up plans just in case they didn't make it through. Most people had similar complaints, the professors weren't available, there wasn't any support, they were on their own, and the program was 'convoluted' (a term I heard over and over again). A couple of students had even filed complaints because they felt that they were being left to teach themselves EVERYTHING. Don't get me wrong, I understand that nursing school is no easy feat, but we are paying a great deal for this education.

Anyway, I was discharged from the program within the first two weeks because I failed a clinical exam. Though their policy states that you are allowed to repeat one class and I have known several people who failed nursing 100 and re-took it, they stated that I would not be allowed to re-take the class and if I wanted to file an appeal that it would have to go in front of the department and since they were part of the department it wasn't likely that I would change their minds. Now all you stone throwers out there can start firing away comments about all of the things that I must have done wrong, but unless you were there, I don't think it's fair to assume that you know what happened here. Anyway, luckily I had been offered a spot in another program and when I called to see if I could be put back on the wait-list they offered me a seat for the fall. This is a small, hospital based school that accepts 30 students each semester. We had a 2 day orientation last week and started classes this week. I just want to say that I could not be happier, this school is incredible. During orientation we met all of the staff and faculty members including the instructors from every class, administration, secretary, ect. Everyone seems so kind and supportive.

I just wanted to say don't give up, no matter what happens, if this is what you want than go for it. A few people I know have since moved on to other programs after failing out of this one and they have done very well. There is one school an hour north of here that a friend of mine got accepted to and was told by the director that they have gotten about 15 students who were kicked out of this program in the last couple of years and most of them are doing well. I feel so blessed to be given this opportunity and couldn't be happier at the way things turned out...best of luck to all of you :)