Aspiring career as an RN Need Advice

smk1, LPN · Aug 24, 2005

Hey, I'm new to the board and only going to be a Junior in High School. I have had the idea of working in the medical field for as long as I can remember, I just never knew what. Recently, I finally realized that I was interested in becoming an RN and working as a Labor/Delivery Nurse and/or a NICU Nurse. I know that going to a nursing school, passing the RN exam, and being trained is it all. I am interested in getting my BSN. I am looking into a few nursing schools along the East Coast. I just needed some advice as to whether I was missing ANYTHING at all, and if anyone as any suggestions as to electives I should try and take for my future my experience as an RN.

as far as electives in highschool, i guess a more advanced chemistry and biology if it is offered would help. Really though if you are planning on going straight to a 4 year university or private college, just make sure that your grades are up to par. When you get to college your first 2 years will be filled with classes such as Anatomy and physiology with lab for a year, 1 or 2 semesters of Chemistry, a couple of different Psychology classes, Algebra and statistics, sociology, art, english and other humanities classes. Good luck and check into the colleges that interest you and then you will have a better idea of what you need to do to be accepted into their nursing program. (you can't just sign up, because they are limited entry and competitve).

Fun2, BSN, RN · Aug 24, 2005

If you are making A's easily, or high B's without trying, see if there are any college credit classes you can take at your school, such as English, History, etc.

Just remember, it is HARD to get into a program. Your grades must be HIGH!!! You will determine your future now, make wise choices. Most of us wish we had, but as you can see, we are going back to school becuase it is so important in life.

Taking a Health Occupations class could also benefit. If your school offers it, you go to school for several classes, and then you work at a hospital or Dr's office for a while. You gain valuable experience with terminology, patient confidentiality, etc.

Sciences will help, if you only can take regular classes. Anatomy & Physiology, Chemistry, Biology, etc. will be classes you more than likely will have to take in the nursing program, so it will be beneficial if you have a background knowledge of those.

Good luck to you, and remember: This may go ignored, but, you are determining your future now. Try your hardest, but enjoy your last two years in high school. Learn to balance studying, friends, etc so that your grades stay good, and you still are enjoying life.

Have a great Jr. & Sr. year! :)

Micci · Aug 24, 2005

I agree with the others who said to take the science classes. Also make sure you are taking more than basic math. If you are already planning on going to college, you have probably already taken algebra. You should also do the more advanced math, a I think the BSN requires it.

I recently spoke to a just out of high school student, and her high school had a nursing assistant program, so she graduated with her CNA. So she is able to work in the field while getting her degree. Your high school may have a similar program.