Accelerated BSN: Should I even apply

[espo44]

Hi all,

I'm looking for advice. I have a bachelor's degree in English from a big University. I'm 34 and in the corporate sector and I want to get into Nursing. I'm wondering if you think I even stand a chance of getting into an accelerated BSN program considering:

I got by BA in 1998

It was in English Literature

I have never worked in the Health Care field

I would need to take a few prerequisites at a Community College.

I keep hearing that there is a shortage of nurses due to the shortage of teachers, i.e. programs are hard to get into because they aren't enough for the demand. It has been a dream of mine for quite some time to become a nurse, but only now that I've had my kids, can I entertain going back to school. I'm not sure if I would just get laughed out of the room if I tried to apply for an accelerated BSN program. Any thoughts?

Thanks!

e

[AugustRain]

I have a BA in English lit and took 9 pre-reqs at community college. I was also accepted to my 1st choice ABSN program, will graduate in 11 weeks, and have done very well throughout the entire program, both in lectures and clinicals. I love it and am so glad I decided to do it. I did have experience in healthcare, but if that's something you're worried about lacking, why not volunteer at a local hospital while you complete your pre-reqs?

One of the best things about an accelerated program is the difference in everyone's backgrounds, so consider your previous experiences an asset, not a drawback. If this is your dream, then go for it. Besides, what's the worst that can happen if you do apply?

Good luck!

[espo44]

This is so encouraging! I would need to take 8 pre-reqs (most likely). And the fact that I haven't been in healthcare made me feel like my dream is very unrealistic. If I may ask, did you/are you working while attending school? I would imagine you can't work due to the intensity of the program, but I could be wrong.

Thank you so much for your reply! Maybe I will seriously consider this... ??

[AugustRain]

I'm not working during the program, I moved in with family and took out some additional living loans while I finish school. It was an adjustment, but it's worth it. Depending on your program and all the other factors in your life, you may be able to work part time during nursing school.

Going back to school at this point in my life is completely different than it was the first time - you might be surprised at all the things you'll be able to do!