Thanks dg05 for your input! Very helpful. I am tending to agree with you based on numerous conversations with those out in the field. To your point, I am finding it hard to justify being saddled with $150K (yes that is the cost of education these days) of debt only to be working the same job as those who have minimal to zero debt. And I do agree with you, the state program I'm looking at is very solid with opportunity to network, through clinicals, etc., in the region where I plan to settle after school. Out of curiosity, what do you do now, if you don't mind sharing?
Thanks again for your time! So helpful! You mentioned in a previous post that you're not sure if name really matters. I've found that topic to be debateable as you will get different answers from different people. I am currently deciding between accelerated programs at Yale and a state school for 1/4 of the cost. Most people in the field say name doesn't matter, but when you talk to people in the brand name programs, they feel that it does matter. Perhaps it doesn't matter when you're working as an RN. But does it matter more if you're working as an APRN? Or maybe it matters more if you're in academia or trying to start your own practice where people may pay more attention to pedigree. What are your thoughts on this, if any? Again, I appreciate your time!
Thanks for your input. I was accepted at Marquette as well - which is also a good school, and the first year "Cost of Attendance" is $45,000. I think that is so much more reasonable and still gets me out of Vermont and in to an urban setting. Also its considered graduate, so i don't have to use as much if any private loans.
