Can I have a job while in nursing program?

mo1222 · Mar 10, 2013

Hey guys! I just applied for Macomb's nursing program this winter and I am waiting for a response if I made it in or not. I have a 3.9 GPA and got a 92 on the HESI so I am really hoping I made it in! I am looking into buying a house and need to know if I can hold a job while in the 2-year program. Is anyone in it right now that can tell me how demanding the program is, and if I would be able to have a job? Thanks :)[/quote']
I'm not sure about that school, but the one I'm in is a 2yr as well and I am still working but not very much 2-3 days a week max and soon it might only be 1.. My teachers recommended not working more than 10 hours a week. Hope that helps.

MN-Nurse, ASN, RN · Mar 10, 2013

A part time job as a CNA is extremely beneficial; if you do not already have one should start looking immediately. It is not financially beneficial in the short term, but it can make a huge difference in your career. (Many on this board disagree with me on this point, but they are mistaken)

Disc_Chick · Mar 11, 2013

I'm in a 2 year program right now. The first 2 semesters I worked part time two days a week on Sunday and Monday. I had class for 4 hours on tuesday and Wednesday. I also had clinical Thursday and Friday 8 hours/day. It was hard and when my school made changes to the schedule last minute or added a day I'd have to call in or switch with a co-worker. I dont think working more than 15 hours is doable you need the hours to study. I recently quit my job so these last two semesters Im not working and focusing on learning the material. This summer I plan on getting a nurse externship. Also I hadn't had any nursing or medical experiance going into the program I think it wouldve helped the first semester but after that first semester you really start learning actual nursing material. I dont feel that I'm behind at all like I thought I might be. Now that im not working and have more time to devout to reading it has been the best.

fmxkrazyone · Mar 11, 2013

In my own experience, I did not have a job during my own 2 year program and can't imagine how I would have juggled it all if I did, it was very demanding. However, if I could do it all again, I would love to have had a job as an aid like many of my friends did. Not only did they get offers as RNs on the floors they worked on, they got a lot of experience that you can't even get in clinicals. I would not have done it more than 1 or 2 shifts per week, but I wish I had looking back on it all. It is possible, I know many people who did, but they weren't able to work many hours and some people even failed a semester because they were working so much. It really depends on the person and how you can manage work and school, it all works out different for everyone, but good luck with whatever you choose and I hope you make it in!!