it is possible

Published Mar 27, 2014

1 Post

so here is my story of a RN license with a felony. I live in St. Louis, MO and when I was first trying to find out if it was even possible to go to school and do clinicals, I asked everyone and really no one knew a lot of information. So I started my search with the MO state board of nursing. I explained my situation (drugs) told them it occurred in 1998 and asked if I would be allowed to be licensed. They stated it is possible they review cases on a case by case basis. I felt good about that- I was entering school in Jan 2012 so it had been 14 years and I was by no means the same person. I filled out all the necessary paperwork for school and was accepted at the community college. Along the way someone told me to apply for a good cause waiver, which doesn't erase the felony but makes it ok to be hired (that's my understanding of it anyway) I applied for that through the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. I received that and was on my way. Was able to do clinicals with no problem. I finished school in December 2013, I had to file for licensure in a little different way then everyone else, they wanted a statement by me explaining the felony, 2-3 reference letters, and some court filings. I turned all that in and was told it could be up to 4 months before they made a decision. I received my att 3 weeks after my classmates did. I took and passed the NCLEX with 75 questions on March 24. So it is possible just be honest every step of the way. Also make sure your life now is something to be proud of, that you can show the board of nursing that you are NOT that same person. I prayed a lot and God definitely showed me the path. So if nursing is your dream GO FOR IT!! I don't think I will have trouble finding a job either. I realize that some people will only see that felony but others will see beyond it. I am going to try to apply at places that I can take my resume vs. filling out an application so that way I can explain myself. Good Luck and I hope this helps.