Advice While Fulfilling Pre-Reqs

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Hi all,

I am currently working on my pre-reqs to apply for ABSN programs and need advice. If all goes well, I am eligible to apply to ABSN programs in Fall 2020 for Fall 2021 admission. I have a previous Bachelor's in Public Health and have been offered a health educator job (M-F, 9-5). I currently act as a health coach (same hours) at the moment at a clinic, but would like more hands on clinical experience and would like to strengthen my application and resume in any way possible. I am thinking about taking a day CNA class over the summer before my science classes start to instead obtain a job at a local SNF or hospital as a CNA. Not only would I be able to gain experience as a CNA and use the experience towards nursing school, but another perk would be the flexibility of scheduling. This way, I have more options for class times towards my science classes and am not only limited to classes after 5pm. Do you think this seems like a fit plan? I still don't know if I would like to work part time or full time while doing my pre reqs, but any insight anyone has would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!

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I can't speak from experience, but it sounds like it could be a good plan. The only thing I would personally be concerned with it the pay. My guess is that you would make more as a health educator vs a CNA, but if that's not the case or not an issue then go for it! I'm applying for an RN program that has a two year wait-list and I plan to keep working at my current completely not medically related job for at least another year because I won't be able to find anything at the CNA level that pays as well and I have a lot of debt to try and pay off before I start nursing school. Then I figure while I'm in nursing school I can work as a CNA part-time or on a more flexible schedule because I should hopefully not be as reliant on the income and it will be a good way to hopefully get my foot in the door. Good luck!!!

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@CamMc Thank you SO much Cam, I appreciate the advice! This is my first post so I am thankful for the reply! I definitely get where you're coming from. I have a lot of debt from my first Bachelor's but plan to pay it off little by little as well. I am currently doing an Americorps program so I don't get paid much now but did it for experience! I did get an offer for the position, but I do want to get my foot in the door and make my application as strong as I can before applications for ABSN programs. I think in your situation, I would stay in the position you are currently in too! Finance definitely plays a factor so I agree. Good luck with everything! Wish you all the best ?

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It sounds like you have a good plan. Honestly, working part time and going to school is the MOST ideal. But I know it does not work out like that for everyone. I worked part-time and did my pre-reqs for a little while.

I always tell students who are starting their nursing pre-reqs to have a balance of school/life. Ensure you have time to study, get 8 hours of sleep and have a set schedule.

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