Becoming a competitive CRNA applicant

[give em zzzs]

My initial timeline got adjusted but I'm excited to say that I have my BSN and am studying for the GRE. I will be applying to CRNA schools this (2017) year; the application deadlines vary.

I'm looking for advice on beefing up my application to be as competitive as possible. Here's what I'm working with and planning on so far-

GPA- 3.5

Organic Chem I- A

Organic Chem II- C (I am enrolled to retake this)

Studying for my GRE- taking it at the end of February, then

Studying for my CCRN

2.5 years SICU experience, including trauma & open hearts

ACLS, PALS

Member of the Safety Committee

About to start doing Charge Nurse

1 Shadowing experience with a CRNA

Any suggestions to enhance my application? I am going to speak with my manager to discuss different committees in the hospital that can benefit from my involvement as well as enhance my application. I'll also be setting up additional shadowing opportunities.

[anotheroneofmany]

Definitely get way more shadowing experience. Might want to take some more chemistry classes or a graduate statistics class and make A's to show that you can handle graduate coursework (and bring up your GPA). Do well on your GRE. Consider other certifications like TNCC. Otherwise, seems like you are on the right track. Schools love tons of shadowing hours and a good rec letter from that crna so make a good impression!

[jj224]

Shadow more and get a good letter of recommendation from the CRNA / anesthesiologist you're shadowing. Make sure to ask questions and engage when you're shadowing, not just standing around. The more enthusiastic you are, the more likely you'll get a good letter. Also, get a good letter from your manager / unit director.

[give em zzzs]

Thanks for the quick replies. I'll be getting to work on the shadowing right away. I might as well take extra classes until I get accepted. I'll start with redoing Chem II (since I had a C the first time I took it) and then maybe Bio Chem or the Stats class you suggested. TNCC would be nice to have under my belt, too. Thanks again guys!