How long to wait?

I am taking my pre-reqs now for the nursing program. I'm trying to get a gameplan because I live in Atlanta (have all my life) and want to get out of here. I would prefer to go to a school out of the area but I don't know where yet. How do I know what classes to take if I don't know what school I'll be able to get into? I don't get straight A's so I know I'm going to have to just go where I can get in. Also, I've heard there's always a waiting list to wait on. What do you do in that time? Should I apply soon so I'm still getting my pre-reqs for the program and when I'm done I won't have to wait? What do you other people do in this case? Thank you.