Already have a bachelors...

cheesepuff · Aug 12, 2015

@Smartchick0123 thank you so much ! This really helped. I also went to UCR and I'm planning on applying to the RCC program on August 2016. I hope I get in!!! Thanks again for all the information!

Smartchick0123 · Aug 12, 2015

Really consider going to a workshop before applying; there is one in Riverside this Thursday. I say this because I did have to go back to take a couple classes I didn't have as a UCR student and was given direction on which ones I needed and if you can ask after the workshop is over, one on one with the students, about how they got into their prereqs a lot quicker than continually being placed on the wait list (the 3 science classes very impacted every where btw and have long wait lists). We talk about how to get in (points to achieve), how to study for TEAS, experiences as a student and answer questions after. The counselor or admissions also show up and provide details on the classes you need and other requirements for getting into the program.

cheesepuff · Aug 12, 2015

Luckily, I was able to get into my Anatomy course at San Bernardino Valley College. Im taking the science courses there. Yes, I saw that they have a workshop this Thursday. I think I will be going so I can find out what courses I still need to take. Thank you! Im glad I found someone who has gone through the same process as I did. I am always worried, because I am 25 and I feel like its taking forever for me to finish my pre nursing/nursing schooling.

Smartchick0123 · Aug 12, 2015

O don't worry at all you are actually around the average age as we have students as young as 20 and as old as in their 60s. So never feel like that as I am 29 and had those feelings too...got over it quickly once I got into the program. About 25% are UC graduates, 25% have a bachlors from other schools and another 25% doing this as a second career.

sunnyharbor · Aug 14, 2015

I am so glad you posted this question. I've been planning to work nights through school, but have been getting discouraged by people saying it will be impossible to handle.

suitcase calling · Aug 15, 2015

Lots of good advice above! I would add-think about what your end goal is. If NP is on the list make sure the BSN is robust enough that credits will be accepted by NP/MS colleges.

Smartchick0123 · Aug 16, 2015

Well...I have to agree with them too to be honest. When I mean work I'm talking more like 8-12 hours a week and really nothing more during the 2 year ADN program. Sometimes I won't even be able to work at all for a week or two. The BSN is totally different as its after you get your ADN and RN. It's MUCH easier to work full time during this degree and this particular program can't speak for the other BSN programs. By the second year ADN year barely anybody had a job and had no choice but to quit. It's incredibly demanding as it takes almost every ounce of your time. Just be REALLY careful where you put your priorities because students who placed work before school unfortunately did not pass the semester and had to wait a year to return. I'll put it this way we began with 80 students and now we're down to 60...so it's possible to work but you will not have time for anything else not even your family only school and work. So really consider what you want and you always have the option to save money now before you start and take out loans.

And yes all the BSN RN-BSN courses through Cal State Fullerton transfer to California schools (not sure out of state). My end goal is FNP/masters so I did a lot of research as the schools I want to apply to are either UC or Cal State anyway.

GingerManCCRN · Aug 16, 2015

@Cheesepuff-

I restarted my life during the '08-09 recession, in my mid 30s, with a Bachelors degree. I am in Dallas, so my results may differ from others...I worked full-time (40+ hours/week) and went to cc to get my ADN, got hired full-time as an RN in an ICU, then returned to an accelerated online BSN that I completed in 6 months while working full-time. I have not regretted any of it, and I'm now planning on moving into either management, or NP.

If you want it, you can do it. If you have to work while going to school, you can do it. It's not easy, but I excelled in my job, and I graduated with a 3.9.

Talk to the hospital recruiters in your area, but I think I would go the route Smartchick is going. For me, I saved a lot of money by going through cc first. Just know to take all advice, including mine, with a grain of salt--there are going to be many, many, people who will tell you you can't do this or that, or will tell you it's either super soul-crushingly difficult or a breeze, etc. You CAN do this route, work if you need to, graduate, and get a good job.

Best of luck!

sunnyharbor · Aug 20, 2015

Thanks for the PM. :) I can't reply that way because I don't have 15 posts yet. I do agree that putting ADN school before a job is important. If it comes to it I will only do school if I have to, but for now the goal is to work 3 nights a week while getting my ADN. If things go as planned I will have school and work plus zero life for about 1.5 years. :roflmao: But it will be worth it.