Calling All Nurses!!! Is My Plan Realistic?

cracklingkraken, ASN, RN · Mar 21, 2016

Many people have asked this question before about going straight for FNP, but many nurses have recommended working a few years as an RN before going on to FNP.

Breezykh · Mar 22, 2016

Thanks for the feedback!

If I decided not to wait a few years and go straight into getting my MSN, would my lack of experience hinder me from getting into the program?

cracklingkraken, ASN, RN · Mar 22, 2016

Thanks for the feedback!
If I decided not to wait a few years and go straight into getting my MSN, would my lack of experience hinder me from getting into the program?

I'm sure that there would be some places that would hire you. But, personally, I wouldn't feel comfortable working as an APRN without any experience as an RN.

elkpark · Mar 22, 2016

If your goal is to become an NP, why are you investing time and money in a BFA? Why not just switch to nursing now?

db2xs · Mar 22, 2016

I echo elkpark: Is there a reason you are majoring in film if your ultimate plan is to become a nurse practitioner? Perhaps you are envisioning creating nursing documentaries? Really, film is something you can do after you become a nurse practitioner. If you were planning to work in film for several years before returning to school, then I could maybe see why this is your future vision, but I'm still perplexed why you are doing this.

Secondly, there are masters programs that will accept you without RN experience, but I advise that if you want to be the best practitioner and enter the occupation on an even playing field, get some floor RN experience. I am a second career nurse and originally wanted to just jump straight into an NP program, but on the advice of several experienced NPs, I decided to get my BSN and work on the floor. After more than two years, I really understand why they said that. I am constantly learning things that will be invaluable once I become an APRN.

Breezykh · Mar 22, 2016

This was really helpful! Thanks guys.

I'm an independent filmmaker, passionate about film, and am pursing my BFA to gain more knowledge, skills, and experience and to increase my contact network.

Nursing is one of my other major interests (and undoubtedly the best paying one) and I'm pursing my BSN, and ultimately my MSN, to further that interest and support myself with that job until the time that I can fully support myself with my film profits.

Again, thanks!

Another question: How hard is it to work while pursuing your MSN?

allnurses Guide · Mar 23, 2016

Most of us work pursuing MSN I would say.

osi2011 · Mar 23, 2016

First I must say that I really appreciate your motivation! Such ambition at a young age, reminds me of myself;). With that said, I do agree with some of the previous posts, that it may be wise to work at least a year or two as an RN then go for your MSN. BUT you also have the option of working as an RN while attending your MSN program, that way you are killing two birds with one stone. Many people have done it, my clinical instructor just completed her MSN program, passed her NP boards all the while working the overnight shifts full time at an acute care hospital as an RN. It will be tough, but with your motivation, there is nothing impossible for you! Just know there are many avenues and opportunities to realize your dream, just take your time and do a lot of research. Goodluck!