Another (but different) background concern/request.

Hello you guys. I'm new to this board and a new pre-nursing student. I have just enrolled for my prerequisites and start school in two weeks.

I have an issue I would like to share in hopes of encouraging others who may have had similar experiences, to share their stories. I am hoping to hear from people who have had a similar offense in their background, yet succeeded in obtaining their nursing license. But anyone who can offer information would be appreciated.

I am well aware that BON is who to contact regarding whether my background offense will hinder my ability to become registered as a nurse, but I've been unsuccessful in reaching them as of yet and I really need to know as soon as possible.

In 1999, while living in California, I was receiving supplemental Calworks while working part time. I was required to fill out a monthly form stating my earnings and depending what they would be, I would receive a supplement check from the county. Over the course of about 6 months, I miscalculated my earnings that resulted in an overpayment from the county where I live. In 2001, it went to court because while driving for my work, I was pulled over for wearing no seat belt and was arrested on a Felony charge of fraud.

I served three days in jail and was released with restitution, work project and probation. Also, the felony was reduced to a misdemeanor. Since then, I was stupid enough to receive two minor traffic violations as well, but that is all. I have no subsequent records of any other nature.

I don't suppose this matters to BON, but I really want this. I feel I 'have' to become an RN because I am innately caring and deeply nurturing. It may sound funny given the nature of this post, but I am also very honest and have a lifetime of achievements and milestones that have made me the exceptional person that I am. I don't just want into nursing for the money, although the fact that I would finally be self-supportive is highly appealing to me. To be able to provide for my children and give them the things in life that I didn't have as a child and to show them that even at my age (40) I can do something worthwhile in my life and possibly be a role model is not without it's place in my motivation and quest to become and RN.

So, my question is to anyone who can share a similar experience with me, or maybe someone that knows someone who is like me and has gone on to become a nurse. Am I going to be wasting my time, based on your experiences?

I don't think I would feel right going into any other field of work. I hope to hear from someone. Thanks for reading.