For profit LVN to BSN or Community College for ADN

[idreamofnursing17]

Ok for starters I feel sooo stressed over this. I am a current LVN; obtained via CC. I want to get my RN but don't know if I should go the Carrington, Chamberlain etc route or just wait around for the community college application period and apply to the mobility program. Now another issue is I've just started a new job and do not want to be asking for schedule changes so soon. Community College would out me out to starting June 2017 if accepted. Program runs an entire year. Another issue is I want to still work as I have 3 children. I was thinking possibly just applying for govt assistance if I found myself unable to work during the program if accepted. I worked FT during the LVN program so I'm not against working. I just want to make the best decision for myself and my family. 37-59,000 k also sound ridiculous 😠. What do you think? Any advice?

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

Before you make any irreversible decisions, PLEASE talk to the financial/admissions folks at the CC. You may be eligible for financial aid such as a Pell Grant, particularly if you haven't tapped into this funding before. They can walk you through the process. Also, does your employer offer tuition reimbursement?

Talk to your manager &/or HR department about your goals & plan. They may surprise you with support you hadn't anticipated. Many organizations are having difficulty recruiting experienced RNs so your employer may be interested in helping you in return for some type of employment commitment. It never hurts to ask.

Best of luck on your journey - many of us began our careers as LV/PNs. We're cheering you on!

[Mandy2016, BSN]

If you're worried about money, cc for ASN is the best way to go. I know waiting to get in is frustrating, but it pays off. The first thing you want to check is the NCLEX pass rates for each school. If they have less than 90% you probably don't want to waste any time or $ on it. Another benefit of ccs are the financial aid opportunities. Most states have "loan repayment" programs that will pay up to $10,000 if you agree to work in an underserved area for 2 years following your graduation. You can even apply more than once and get another $10,000+ (if you are willing to work in the needed areas). A program like this would cover all of the costs of a cc, but not a private school. Hope this helps!