Should i retake some science classes before i apply for CRNA?

[daisydoll]

Hi everyone,

I am considering applying to CRNA school once I get some ICU experience. My problem is some of my science grades were in the C range. I was considering retaking A&P and maybe Pharm at a community college. Is this something schools would look favorably upon? I want to show that I am dedicated and will work hard.

Thanks everyone! :loveya:

[jls189]

I was in the same boat as you. I talked with the schools that I was interested in applying to, and they suggested taking 1 or 2 grad level science classes. I took a grad level Adv. cardiophysiology and neurobiology class. They told me that they want to see that you can handle graduate school. I wouldn't waste your time re-taking any classes that you have already taken.

[daisydoll]

Anybody else have a situation like this and gotten into CRNA school?

[Happy Halothane]

My undergrad was in business, but with a complete pre-med curriculum. Since it had been a while, I retook Organic 1 while I was in nursing school.

Some programs have a stronger science-base to them, and during my interview they did notice the upper level chemistry classes I had taken

Pharmacology is such a huge portion of anesthesia. But in order to really understand the advanced concepts, you do need a solid biochem background.

A well rounded Biochemistry class will help the most, I believe. You'll struggle if you can't understand basic chemistry and organic reactions/stereochemistry. And most important, you'll need to understand enymes/metabolism of compounds.

Physiology wouldn't hurt, but I would buy a cliff notes book and refresh by yourself instead.

I didn't have the best GPA, but then again I took much harder clasess than a standard BSN undergrad degree. Here's my advice:

1) Go get a variety of critical care experience...somewhere you'll see CVP's, A-lines, PA-Catheters. Pick up shifts in the ER so you can get really comfortable with multitasking and IV skills.

2) Take some of the classes I recommended, and then

3) Do really well on the GRE...this is an easy place to stand above the rest of the applicants.

4) Shadow several CRNAs, and really think about whether this is something you want to do. It's a huge sacrifice...with a rewarding career, but it all boils down to liking what you do for a living!

Good luck!

[Nacki, MSN, NP]

Good question DasiyDoll,

I was wondering the same thing. I have C's in two science classes. I was at a hard time in my life and wasn't focusing on school like I should. Other than that, my gpa is good. I haven't called the school I want to appy for yet. Maybe I should do that Monday. Thanks for all the ideas guys! Keep it up!

[daisydoll]

Thanks for the great advice! I know CRNA school is a huge sacrifice but would be well worth it!

[FLTraumaRN]

I personally would not waste your time with community college classes. At the least take upper level undergrad or grad classes. Check into the school you are interested in. Are there any pre-req or general nursing classes you need? Take those before you apply. For instance my school you have to take pathophys and pharm. Those are two good science classes that if you take before you apply, shows you can do grad level science classes.

But, definitely don't waste your time at the community college.

Good luck

[careergoal]

I applied to and go interview in 2 CRNA schools. Did not get into any of them. Very discouraging. I was looking at taking some undergrad sciences but reading al these comments, i will settle for grad level research and pathophysiology this summer. Will try and knock out my GRE this spring to give me more choices.