Aspiring NICU nurse seeking advice

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Hey guys,

I am currently enrolled in an ASN program and I’m in my 2nd semester. My goal is to become a NICU nurse. I want to be able to get into the NICU as a new grad, but most hospitals and NICU residency programs prefer a BSN over an ASN. Would it be a smart decision to drop out of the ASN program (even though I’m doing extremely well) and apply to a BSN? Or should I just keep searching for NICU PCT and NICU unit clerk positions to gain experience and stay in my ASN program and do an RN-BSN program afterwards? I have an AA degree and I regret not applying to a BSN program, but the timing didn’t line up, unfortunately. Thanks in advance! ?

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Specializes in PCU, LTAC, Corrections.

If I were you I would stay where you are. You are in a nursing program that will end with a degree. There is no guarantee that you will get in a BSN program.Due to a nursing educator shortage, spaces are often limited at various programs. I would stay where you are and work towards your goal.

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Specializes in NICU.
5 hours ago, Jxss said:

Or should I just keep searching for NICU PCT and NICU unit clerk positions to gain experience and stay in my ASN program and do an RN-BSN program afterwards?

^^This^^

Preferably at a children's hospital because the NICU will be larger. A smaller community hospital NICU will be smaller with less staff, which means less job openings when you are looking for your first nursing job.

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Stay where you are. Spots in any kind of nursing program are not that easy to come by and if you leave the ASN program, those nursing courses are not going to transfer to a new program.

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