Need Advice...Preparing to apply

californianurse · Feb 3, 2008

Laura, you are phenomenal! Have you thought about calling each school and telling them what you just wrote on this forum? I've found schools to be very honest with candidates. If they think you need a more current stats class, then they'll tell you. See if you can chat with the director and tell her/him your background. I've had directors even share "the kind of questions they just might ask" and give me multiple examples. Overall, applying was a pretty positive experience. The more you communicate with a school, the more of a relationship they can have with you and it just makes for a good experience.

As for age, I've heard of plenty of nurses accepted to CRNA programs who are over 40, some over 50. Not only have I "heard" of said nurses getting accepted, but I personally know one who was accepted to a great program and had to turn it down because he couldn't bear to leave his kids and wife for 3 years. Anyway, by law, they cannot discriminate against you for age, sex, race, religion, sexual orientation, etc. But I understand your concern. The thing is, you have more than proved you are capable of working hard and time management, and that you are quite motivated. All of those things are extremely positive, and will justly reflect on your application. You can write one of the best entrance essays ever!

:icon_hug:

ljmb · Feb 3, 2008

Thanks for your response!

I did contact one school. They told me I didn't need to go back into ICU (even though my experience was quite some time ago)....but I didn't feel good about that....

it would be suicide for any other school application.

I will take your advice and make a few phone calls to the other schools. I may try to schedule a visit to ask my question too...

putting a face with a name is always good.

How do you feel about this....

My overall GPA is 3.4. That includes about 180 undergraduate credit hours...and remember, it includes my freshman/sophmore years 20 years ago!!! Heehee.

However, my last 60 hours, 3.85.

I understand most schools (if you're "old" like me), will look at those last 60 credit hours the most.

Do you have any opinion on that?

Laura

gasmaster · Feb 3, 2008

I'm 42 & am going to attend TCU's program this fall, which means I'll actually be 43 when I start. Ok, first you need to speak with each program you will be applying to. The two that I applied to both required current ICU experience preferably within the past 2 years. One of them required PROOF of years in nursing and I had to provide letters from previous directors or HR's showing what department I worked in and how many hours. So there are some programs that require you to show them your current ICU experience. Many programs thoroughly check your references and CV out for accuracy. I don't know of any programs that I've heard of that would accept someone without current ICU experience. If I were u I would certainly get back into the unit. In order to take the CCRN you will need to be at bedside FT for 1 year anyway, and even though some programs only recommend it I've heard that those who have it certainly can have an edge on those who don't. Besides, most of the interview questions relate directly to the CCRN and if you aren't current on gtts, vents, swans, etc. you won't get past the interview. Also, as most programs are HIGHLY competitive to get into, you should strive to meet all the requirements and suggestions of those programs before applying. One program I applied to required chem within 3 years, but they offered a summer chem class once accepted. Although TCU didn't recommend it I am still auditing a chem class this semester as a refresher for fall. That is certainly an option, as most schools will accept an audited course. Food for thought.....

ljmb · Feb 3, 2008

I already have the ICU job lined up and will start next week. I knew I wouldn't have a prayer without the current experience.

I never considered auditing. That may be a great option for me.

Thank you! I'll look into it.

I keep looking at all the requirements and, although I"ve done it all before (chemistry, statistics and ICU experience), I guess I'll have to do it again....to look serious if nothing else.

Thank you for your comments and help!

Most appreciated.

Laura

Pedsccrn · Feb 3, 2008

ljmb,

Your GPA and experience look awesome! You'll have the required year of current ICU and then be able to take the CCRN. Neurogeek's right about the age issue - there won't be one. The only advice that I would add is to be thinking soon about studying for the GRE. Maybe it was just me, but the GRE was a real bear for me personally - I was hoping it was just due to the age (I'm 37). Whether you just buy a study book or even take a review course, I recommend doing it early just in case you want to retake it. Good luck in your endeavor, you'll do great!

Pedsccrn :bbykck:

ljmb · Feb 5, 2008

Thanks for your reply.

I've started studying for the GRE already. I'll try to take that in another month or so.

I think I have the overall "plan" well mapped out.

I just find it nice to get some support and

share some ideas on this forum.

YOu all have been a great help!

Thanks again,

LJMB