ACNP paper vs exam to graduate?

[NPmimzy75]

I'm looking to graduate in 2 semesters and my ACNP program offers two tracks to choose from: a 20-25 page paper on a "clinical issue/problem" or a comprehensive exam (1 part research based, 1 part program content).

Does anyone have any thoughts on which to do? I've been planning on taking the test since it will give me a head start on studying for boards, but I just found out that the exam option does not let you graduate "with distinction". I am a 4.0 student and I'd like to graduate with some kind of recognition for this. Does anyone know how much impact having this on my trasncipt/resume would make? I'd like it for my own personal satisfaction, but should I just get over that and take the test? There is no guarantee that I'd get the distinction (all 3 paper reviewers must approve it on the first round to get distinction). Any input would be great, thanks!

[carachel2]

First of all congrats on the awesome grades! Secondly, do whatever works best for you as far as graduating. I did the project/paper option and liked it because I could space out the work and do it on my own time. It was a major pain though and very time consuming. HOWEVER, I was soooo glad to have it done with and it was really nice to be kicking back and kind of enjoying my last semester instead of scrambling like a mad woman to prepare for a comp exam.

I interviewed at three different places before graduation and after. Not a single one cared remotely about my GPA. They wanted to know how I did in clinicals, would my clinical instructor and preceptor write a rec letter and where I did my clinicals. My transcripts and grades (3.9) never came into the picture.

[linearthinker, DNP, RN]

Wow, I knew we got screwed! We had to write that paper every semester, lol. I'd choose the exam because I'd like the practice for boards, but cum laude was awarded based simply on GPA at my school.

[Christen, ANP]

I'd do whichever one will be easier for you to do in order to graduate!