BSN ACCEL. Program, 2 kids & Husband in Chiropractor Program. HELP!!!

[AllSmiles42]

Hello Everyone!

I am currently finishing up my pre- reqs. I have not decided on the BSN 15 month Accelerated program or the traditional 2.5 year program. Both programs are 15-17 credit hour per term. So this is why I have a hard time deciding.

Currently, I have a 3.9 gpa. I know the gpa will change throughout the nursing program, but I do not want a drastic change!

My husband and I have 2 little ones; a two and a one year old. My husband is in his 2nd trimester of his D.C. program. So far, we are managing. But, Im only taking four classes this term. I also work part time in the NICU as a unit secretary. Majority of my nights are slow. So, I usually study and do homework. I do feel like I am the parent that takes on the most responsibility. My husband is taking 30 credit hours w/ clinicals. So, I do understand.

I have a strong support system with my family. Anytime I need a break or if I just need to study, they are always ready to jump in. Which is awesome!

Even though the support system is there, I still feel uneasy about the whole situation. I have heard so many nursing student horror stories.

I am not planning on starting the program until this fall. Does anyone have any advice???? I am so tired of wrecking my brain! My husband always tell me, "It will be alright honey". Plus, my mother is always saying "you can do it!"

So if the support is there, why am I not confident? I really don't know.

Please help with my madness!

Thank you!!! :)

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

You already feel pressure and are probably afraid it will increase. It will, if you are in nursing school. But you won't know for sure till you try. You can always drop the program or cut back on hours you are in class if the situation becomes unmanageable. I recommend you and your husband sit down with pen and paper and determine who will do what. Create a schdule and a plan for meals, child care, etc. Work in study time. Have a Plan B. Another alternative is to wait till he complete his program - not that it will help much, because then he will be busy starting his practice. You need commitments form various people, him included, so you will feel less stressed.

[AllSmiles42]

You are so right! I have looked in to possibly cutting back on hours, if I need to. But, the program does not allow you to cut down once you have started the clinical portion.

Writing down a plan for our hectic schedule is definitely a start.

My family always tell me that I stress over situations that are not even present. I do not see why! I view this as being prepared.

Thank you so much for your advice!