going to graduate from highschool, want to become a nurse, where do I start?

talentawesome · Jan 13, 2012

stay positive , im headed in the same direction and im only 16 .

Deredain · Jan 13, 2012

Look for a BSN program. A BSN will give you more opportunities in your career, though an ADN or a BSN will allow you to sit for the NCLEX to get your RN.

nurse1805 · Jan 13, 2012

I think the best way for you to get into nursing is to get a job as a CNA (certified nursing assistant). It's a great way for you to get exposed to nursing. I would suggest applying to a 4 year college to get a bachelors (BSN) due to the fact that employers may hire a BSN over an ADN. A bachelor's also gives you opportunity down the road if you want to apply for a management position. Nursing school isn't easy, but it is well worth it! Good luck!

MikeJones · Jan 14, 2012

I agree. If you look at hospitals, "BSN preferred" is what is listed for new grad positions because every hospital wants to achieve Magnet status. It's competitive out there right now. So, BSN. Hands down, trust me.

Also, like previous poster said, get a Nursing assistant/patient care assistant job as soon as you can. After you've started, look for externships, they are life-changing experiences and help immensely in networking with hospital HR + staff/directors, etc. It got me a job :)

KelRN215, BSN, RN · Jan 15, 2012

Look for universities that have traditional BSN programs. I went into college knowing I wanted nursing, declared nursing as my major when I applied and was accepted into the nursing program upon being accepted into the university. Whether or not you have to go in as "pre-nursing" as opposed to "nursing" depends on the school.

Have you not already started the college search process? Applications for fall admissions are probably due relatively soon.

CorinneRN · Jan 17, 2012

This summer, while you're waiting to start college, get your CNA certification. In the small town area where I live, the nursing home offers classes (8hrs a day, for about a month in the summer) for their CNA program. They also hire their newly certified CNAs! Which is awesome, because you’re basically promised a job right after your training. Go to your local nursing home or hospital and ASK if they provide these classes. Someone should be able to point you in the right direction. Having your CNA will put you ahead of the game and get your foot in the door to a hospital. Most girls I went to school with had their CNA’s and worked at a hospital while they were going to school for their RN. After they graduated as an RN, that hospital hired them right off! Before they even passed the NCLEX exam! Having your CNA will give you a better understanding of “what to expect” in the nursing profession.

As far as “which degree comes first”… Between the ADN and BSN - neither one really “comes first.” How it works is: You’re going to go to school for 4 years. Some colleges provide the ADN and others provide BSN. Whether you have an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree, neither makes you “the better nurse.” My understanding is, if you’re going to go to college for 4 years, you might as well be getting your bachelor’s. Most hospitals are trying to get their associate degree nurses back into classes to get their bachelor’s degree anyway. Make it worth your time and do the BSN program (chances are, you’ll have to get it someday anyway)!

The university I went to provided the first two years of general education classes (arts, math, science, history etc.) and then the last two years in the nursing program. A four year plan, all together, with one university.

merryeh · Jan 17, 2012

I would suggest researching several schools in your state (in-state tuition is much less), and make sure they are 4 year colleges with National League of Nursing (NLN) accreditation as well as the usual college accrediting body...assoc of southern schools, etc. If you are a good student and motivated, do the BSN, but if you need to get out and work, the 2yr ADN might be a practical option. You really limit your options for jobs though and promotions and salary aren't near as good. Most hospitals, clinics, and managed care companies request BSN...it's really the standard for the profession. I would apply to several once you make up your mind (in case they have a wait list). But you can still attend as a non-degree seeking student for the first two years and take all the required BSN fresh and sophomore courses. Ask the school for a list of those and they should provide you with it. You can go online and talk with nurse recruiters for the schools you like. I would make a list of each and their requirements, as they differ in what they teach somewhat. Good luck in your search!

HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD · Jan 24, 2012

I agree with advice from PPs. At your age, BSN is the clear choice. You need to explore Federal student loan repayment options associated with working in an 'underserved' area after you become licensed.

Note to OP - if your username is actually an indication of your zodiac sign, you're in good company. Based on my own experience, nursing seems to be a great match for us Virgos! In every department I have ever worked, the Virgo birthdays were the largest group. As a typical bossy, control-freak Virgo , I can't imagine any other career that would provide me with such a great "because I said so" outlet.... LOL.

turnforthenurse, MSN, NP · Feb 1, 2012

ADN = associate's degree in nursing, which is a 2-year degree. Most ADN programs are offered at community colleges but be careful because sometimes the waiting lists are very long!

BSN = bachelor's of science in nursing, which is a 4-year degree. I had 1 year of pre-reqs and then 3 years of nursing classes. Most BSN programs are offered at universities. BSN opens the most doors for you and the best option if you want to further your degree and obtain your MSN (master's) or PhD. Most hospitals now require a minimum of a BSN for entry-level nurses and are phasing out ADN-prepared nurses and LPNs.

RN is not a degree, it is a license. You graduate from a program with either an ADN or BSN, then you take your standardized test called the NCLEX. Once you pass the NCLEX you will become a licensed registered nurse (RN).

All colleges with a nursing program have a pre-nursing tract - that is where you take all of your pre-requisites - typically english, a math class, your science classes, psychology, etc. Every college has different admission criteria so I would highly suggest speaking with an adviser at the school(s) you are interested in.

I also highly suggest getting a job as a CNA or PCT if you can. Even a HUC (health unit secretary). The experience is invaluable and oftentimes those positions can get your foot in door with an employer to be hired as an RN when that time comes. Good luck!

jennifer707 · Mar 31, 2012

thanks for this info. i am having the same problem also. do you know where i could find the CNA classes for the summer? I am graduating this June. i want to work as a CNA to get a feel of the nursing? MY goal is to become a RN(BSN) i live in Orange Nj. any where thats close by will help. Thanks.