Big dilemma please give me some advice!!

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OK I'm 20 years old and I'm from California. I changed from Biology major to Computer Science major (taking classes this semester). I decided that CS major is not for me neither and I stumbled up this major, nursing. My friend thinks that this major is really really hard major, mainly because how hard it is just to get into the programs even with really really good GPA etc. To me, I think I will like this career and I think can do well in it. I'm not the type that LOVE to help people out but I don't mind it and I DO DO DO feel good when I helped someone out.

Today I decided to drop two of my classes Java and Calc 2 (drop this math too because I'm like one chapter and 3 sections behind, and test next week). I went to Golden West community college to apply for the RN(associate degree) program there. I found out that in order to apply, I need to take additional 3 biology classes which I can only take one in each semester. So I have to go to school or atleast 2 more years for just to "apply" into the program(the school only accept once a year). Thats not all....after I get in the program I have to wait for atleast 2-3 more years "waitlist" just to be in the program. After that I get to finish my study (thats 2 years) and then get the license. OK so in total, I still have like atleast 6 years just to get my ASN.......sorry for my language but ***&^k....I mean I like this career and all but 6 years just to get an associate degree?? are you kidding me? lol...

So right now what should I do guys?? please give me some advice, I'm still new to the "real world". Should I pick different career? If possible please tell me some careers that I should look into. Thx

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Look into different nursing schools. All nursing schools will have some sort of prereqs which will require additional classes from you, but not all will go by wait list. The school I went to didn't wait list. They went by GPA and interview. If you didn't get in, you could reapply, but they didn't do lists. I'm not in California though.

I did 2 years of prereqs and 2 years of nursing school for my BSN. I know a lot of people who did 2 years of prereqs and 2 of nursing school for an ADN.

I don't know what to tell you, but either way it won't be quick. You're changing your major... expect at least 4 more years of school regardless of what you choose.

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From what the walk in counselor at that school told me, most school in California will have atleast 1-2 years waitlist. I'm thinking it is because of California's population o.O

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Specializes in Pediatrics.

It took me 3 years of pre-reqs one year off because I didn't get accepted into a school right away. Now I am in school which is a 2 year degree. So that is 5 years in school with 6 until I am finished just for an ADN degree

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Nursing is more than a hard major. Becoming a nurse is hard, BEING a nurse is even harder. If you're not willing to stick out the wait list or are looking for an easy/quick major, nursing isn't for you.

You sound confused in general. You're 20 and are looking at your third change of major. Have you talked to a career counselor? Done an assessment to figure out what might be a good fit for you? It might be a good idea to step back, do some research, and find something that's right for you instead of making a quick decision.

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Specializes in Geriatrics, Home Health.

Why not get a part-time job as a CNA? It will give you an idea of what patient care is like. If you like it, go for nursing If not, you can go back to Computer Science.

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You really have no idea what Nursing is about, what it's like. Please start visiting some hospitals and nursing homes, get to know some nurses at outpatient surgery centers, spend time with nurses on the job, if possible, to get an idea what it's really like.

N. School is "easy" for those who are really wanting to be nurses. I think whatever topic you choose to study will be "easy" if it's what you really like. Good luck with your adventure/exploration.

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Specializes in ER, education, mgmt.

I would advise looking into a different program. A waitlist is not completely unexpected, but 6 years to complete a 2 year degree is ridiculous. (But then again, I do not live in CA). How about a BSN program? the waitlist should not be any longer for those, I am thinking. And because it is a 4 year program all of your "pre-reqs" should be in the program.

And yes, getting your CNA will give you an idea of what patient care is like, but it will not give an idea of what it means to be an RN (no disrespect to the CNAs). Being an RN involves alot more than just bedside care. But you don't really have to have a desire to help people to be good nurse, IMO. I started nursing school at 18 with pretty much the same outlook you describe (with the exception of the major changes) and I have loved being an RN for the last 17 years. So with that...good luck!

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Specializes in elderly.

You should really consider what you want to do because nursing is a career that takes time, once you get into the nursing program you will understand why it takes so long to get through.

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I would advise looking into a different program. A waitlist is not completely unexpected, but 6 years to complete a 2 year degree is ridiculous. (But then again, I do not live in CA). How about a BSN program? the waitlist should not be any longer for those, I am thinking. And because it is a 4 year program all of your "pre-reqs" should be in the program.

California works differently from other states. While some states admit to a nursing program and allow for "prerequisites" to be taken within the first few terms of the program, California is just the opposite.

In California, nearly every campus (both two- and four-year) will require completion of prerequisite coursework and an application prior to admission. Most BSN programs admit students with a 3.5 GPA in both their prerequisites and cumulative coursework.

OP: I agree with other posters - you need to determine if you're willing to commit to the time necessary to this degree and the profession. You can rush through the coursework, but don't complain when you get "C" grades and are not selected for admission. GWC admits by lottery - not a waitlist, and grades are a key factor in determining eligibility for selection.

Most CC students understand that this is a two year degree that in the best circumstances, will take 5 years to complete. Either you want it or you don't. Personally, I don't think 5-6 years is a long investment for a long-term career that provides job stability, opportunity for advancement, and a competitive salary for living in Southern California.

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