Accepted into LVN program. Have a few question/seeking advice

[chrisbee]

I apologize for the double post. Felt that this topic would be more appropriate here, but there's no delete button. I'm sure there are hundreds of topics like this, but I hope I can find some help

I am a 22 year old student who struggled financially during school, but finally on my feet and just finished all my required courses. I start the LVN program at Austin Community College in January. I applied to the RN program too, but still waiting to hear back from them.

I understand I have to submit a background check and was wondering if me having quit a job a week into it (work schedule would not let me go to school) would make a difference. Are they mainly looking for criminal activity? I volunteer for a local hospice and had a background check done and had no problem.

I don't have any pre/co-reqs left to take for either nursing program so I have a semester off. I was hoping I could work or take classes part time. Is there any area in particular that would help me with my future career goals?

How should I prepare for the LVN program? Should I do any reading? Any helpful links? I am also looking into lvn to rn programs.

I understand the job market is slightly over saturated at the moment and it does worry me. I am realistic and am looking into nursing home, rehab, etc. jobs before looking for work in a hospital setting. I was also wondering if I should work in rural areas. Should I even worry about the job market at the moment? The economy can change rather quickly.

Thank you in advance to anyone who replies.

[mermcm83]

quitting a job would not effect you, they are looking for criminal background, theft, dui's, things like that. I am an Lpn student, and I would say, dont listen to the hype, there are plenty of jobs for nurses, and from my experience, most of the people saying that there aren't are the ones who have imagined this dream job with great pay, and no work, instead of getting their feet wet, meeting people, and moving up the ladder. As far as studying goes, I would definately start creating some drug cards (3x5 or 4x6) index cards with different medications, name, side effects, dosage, etc...they will play a huge part in your learning. Also, look at the curriculum, what classes do you have first, brush up on some normal lab values and dosage calculations....but in all honesty you just wont know until you get there. Good Luck!

[NurseLoveJoy88, ASN, RN]

Get the book "Test success for beginning nursing students " This is a great read for all new nursing students. If will prepare you very well for answering test questions that you will see in school and on NCLEX.

Good luck. :)