acceptance...now big decisions

Patti_RN · Feb 25, 2012

My method in these types of decisions is to break it down to two questions, "What is the ultimate goal?" and "What path is most likely to lead to success at achieving that goal?"

So, it seems your goal is to be an NP... and you probably want to do this the fastest, cheapest easiest way, but remember that isn't your goal! Your goal is to successfully finish the program, pass your boards and BE a nurse practitioner.

If you're going to a rigorous program, it's going to be hellacious. You probably can't go to school even part time, work full time plus overtime, and spend time with your son.

The idea of paying out of pocket is great if you can do it. But, if it means working those extra hours to pay for tuition, you may be taking the road to failure. Look very carefully at your budget and see if you can cut some other expenses (cellphone bills, Starbucks coffee, etc.--you'd be surprised how those things add up). You might be able to trim enough from your budget by living frugally to make up for some of the money you'll need for tuition and insurance (if you cut back to part time at work).

Also look into tuition forgiveness programs. You do take student loans, but you pay back tuition by working in underserved areas after graduation.

Look at your schedule of classes and clinical obligations for the three years. Most students are overwhelmed with Patho, Assessment and Pham. You might work part-time when you're trying to survive those classes, then take on more hours at work when the demands of NP school allow.

Another path to success is having a dependable schedule. If you know you'll always have weekdays off you can always rely on having those days free to study or attend classes.

You probably don't want to consider this, but have you considered deferring for a year, saving every cent you can by working overtime, cutting expenses, etc., THEN being able to pay the tuition without worry? I know, I know! But, make it one of your options. (When brainstorming solutions you should throw every possible option on the table, no matter how ridiculous--sometimes great solutions come from what seemed like silly ideas.)

And, in that vain of brainstorming, try to think of other creative ideas that might lead you to saving money, finding more study/ class time, or working less hours.

Whatever you do, keep your eyes on the goal make sure your path leads to success.

jaznia15 · Feb 25, 2012

Thanks so much good way to look at things in order to make the best decision, this is why I come to this site. Great insight and advice!!!!

Patti_RN · Feb 25, 2012

Good luck to you! I hope it's an enjoyable three years, too!

By the way, time with your son is precious, but having him see you work, go to school and struggle will give him incredible respect for you! I know lots of mothers who spend their days at the golf club, the swimming pool or 'lunching' with their friends and their kids generally don't have much respect for them. The mothers who work, go to school, come home tired and exhausted are great role models for their kids--and their kids have limitless admiration for them. My parenting style is one I call "Healthy Neglect"... I give them the attention I can, but am far from being a 'helicopter mom'. They're responsible for doing their own homework, they pitch in and do chores, they don't expect me to be their constant companion and entertainer... as a result they've grown up to be independent, successful (for their ages) and they think I walk on water!!! Do what you can for your son and don't feel guilty about your choices... in the long run, your son will be better off seeing you working, going to school and being a great role model!