Anyone trying to decide between yale GEPN and USD MEPN programs?

megonia · Feb 29, 2008

Hi Jazzy,

I also got accepted to the Yale GEPN program. I was invited to interview at USD, but declined upon hearing I was admitted to Yale. I chose Yale because it is a direct path to becoming an FNP (there were other reasons as well, but that was the biggie). I won't have to reapply to a post-masters certificate program or take time off in between, and if I want to work as an RN for a year or so in the specialty years at Yale I can do so.

I'd say, compare the financial aid packages when you get them (hopefully we'll be getting Yale's package soon!). That'll probably help!

I guess it comes down to how quickly you want to become an NP and how sure you are of your specialty, where you'd rather live, and how much you're willing to pay for the program.

Hope this helps and good luck with your decision! :)

jazzy29 · Feb 29, 2008

Thanks! I wanted the direct to NP program as well but my boyfriend is going to be in SD which makes it very appealing...what specialty were you accepted into at Yale?

megonia · Feb 29, 2008

Thanks! I wanted the direct to NP program as well but my boyfriend is going to be in SD which makes it very appealing...what specialty were you accepted into at Yale?

FNP. :)

How about you?

jazzy29 · Feb 29, 2008

I'm FNP too :)

megonia · Feb 29, 2008

I'm FNP too :)

Awesome, another FNP! You'll have to keep us all posted on what you decide to do!

Good luck, I know it's a tough decision!

jackiejones · Mar 8, 2008

Hey Jazzy,

I am in the exact same boat as you. I am spending today working on a cost-benefit analysis for both Yale and USD. Everyone I talk to says I am crazy to pass up Yale, but USD has such appeal for me since I could continue to work at my current job at Scripps and most of all, stay with my boyfriend. I am going to send in my $600 deposit to Yale and then see what USD offers in the way of financial aid. The bummer is that USD ends up being more expensive than Yale and takes longer. I am going for my adult np and the idea of it taking 5 years going through USD is certainly a consideration. In the end, I have a feeling I will be heading to Yale, but I am still debating between the two. Let me know what you decide. Good luck.

jazzy29 · Mar 9, 2008

Hey Jackie,

How did your cost-benefit analysis turn out? Both schools are ridiculous in terms of the amount of loans. I am also taking into account the fact that I will be able to work at USD and make some money while I am there. And then I am hoping that maybe after working as a RN I will be able to get my job to pay for my NP certificate...but this is all speculation. It is a pain that it will take so much longer at USD. Let me know what you're thinking!

jelly2008 · Apr 9, 2008

you guys are awesome! those are my two top choices! any advice for people applying for fall 2009?

jackiejones · Apr 10, 2008

Congrats on deciding to enter the nursing field jelly2008. In terms of advice I wish I had received, the biggest piece I can offer you is to have a diverse background, whether that means having an arts bachelor degree, traveling abroad experience, jobs, volunteer experience, etc. I have a feeling that both USD and Yale's focus are not entirely on academic performance or even tons of clincial experience...they would much rather see diversity than a cookie cutter 4.0 GPA, perfect GRE score applicant. Another piece of advice would be to work on perfecting your CV/resume and start on your goal statement. I waited a little too long on mine and felt rushed. You will go through many many drafts and truly it helps to have friends and family read over it. Best of luck to you.

bidatheraptor · Feb 10, 2009

If anyone is reading this now: pick UCSF! #2 school rated by all charts. You really can't beat that. If you are lucky enough to get in at UCSF, you should NOT pass it up. It is super competitive.

Plus, you come out as an NP or CNS, unlike at USD.

There really is no question.