caught up in a dilemma

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Hello everyone I got quite of a situation. This is my junior year and i am currently enrolled at LBCC and i am trying to get into the RN program, but unfortunately my grades stand as A (stats), C (psych), C (microbiology) C (anatomy) and D ( physiology but retaking this fall again for the 3rd time) and sociology (taking it this fall). Just looking at the grades that i currently have my GE's (transferable) average out to a 3.25-3.3, but on the downside a 2.83 gpa overall (including remedial courses) Do you guys suggest that i stay at LBCC hoping to get into the program or transfer on over to a csulb or csula or maybe a private college such as National University, Mount St. Mary's or Biola, so that i can take a shot at getting my BSN?

*Please I need some personal advising. I would gladly appreciate it!

Specializes in Pediatrics, Emergency, Trauma.
@ Kaydensmom01 You make some valid points. However, there were several students in my nursing class with previous failures and some with learning disorders who went on to graduate on time from the program and subsequently pass their boards (on the first attempt for both). Nevertheless, I won't jump to conclusions and say that OP is in this category. You state that GPA is an indicator of how you understand the material, but I beg to differ. G.P.A. is a reflection of a overall grades, not IQ or mental acuity. Subpar grades do not mean that a person is not understanding the material. For instance, when I was in 3rd grade I hated school. I was teased by other kids, dreaded going everyday, and just really didn't care. I'm not sure how I made it to middle school? I used to act out in class, never do homework, and intentionally fail standardized tests. Was I not understanding what I was learning? Nope. I just had other issues at the time and I didn't care about how I performed academically or didn't really put forth an honest effort. If OP is anything like me, it could mean that he has test anxiety or perhaps didn't do the classwork.

I just hate to jump to conclusions based on someone's grades. I used to do that when I was a tutor and you just can't go off of this alone. Grades just don't reflect a person's true ability or intelligence. I know some super smart individuals who would rather skate by with just a "C" then to sit down, put forth the effort an earn an "A." It's strange, but true. OP seems like he really wants to become a nurse and I would want him to fully explore his range of options rather than being discouraged by some of us. Nursing judgment is not the same as intelligence testing. An IQ or mental development expert couldn't tell me how to do my job and I wouldn't guess how to do his/hers either.

I appreciate sharing your own story of triumph as well. :yes:

I used to tutor kids-college students as well...there are so many factors that go into studying, and even being successful at school; psychosocial, and socio emotional factors are heavily factored into a person success, and can affect thought process and judgement.

I remember TWO professors in my studies; my abnormal psych and mental health nursing professor stated that there were studies in correlation of IQ in addition of psychosocial and socio emotional factors in relation to some mental health issues; with treatment, measurements could see an increase to an acceptable level. (I went more into depth in my abnormal psych;it was touched on briefly in my mental health nursing class, when we discussed mental health assessment. )

I'm not saying the OP is experiencing this per se, but it does give insight in relation to IQ, intelligence, and and other measurements...there are many relative things that come into the mix, so I agree again, you can't base a conclusion based on one post. :) I hope that OP comes back to share, what the issues are specifically, if the OP is willing. :yes:

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Specializes in Trauma, Orthopedics.

I'm not sure where the misconception comes from that it is easier to get into a BSN program than an ADN program....but it's not. At least not anywhere near me. And if anything, accelerated programs are even more competitive than regular programs. Private and for-profit (Lincoln Tech, ITT Tech, etc) are not the same thing (I see this all the time on here). My alma mater for my first degree only accepted 30-40 nursing students....and hundreds applied. C's an A&P will in most cases get your application immediately thrown out.

What's important to realize is that these classes and the knowledge you gain in them are vital for building a solid foundation for nursing school. If you don't understand A&P/micro/psych....you won't make it. Nursing schools expect you to already know this information--it doesn't get retaught in pathophys/pharm/med-surg. I would look into a plan B. Even if you retook Phys for a 3rd time and passed....it would not reflect positively on an application in the slightest.

If you do understand the material but perhaps you are having other things in life distract you from your studies, it's something you need to figure out and change NOW if you plan to continue with nursing school. It only gets harder to manage your outside life once you're in, and the material and course load doesn't get any lighter. A for-profit might be your best bet if your sights are set, but keep in mind they are extremely expensive, and it may take a bit of extensive research to find a school with a quality education that can compete with your other choice schools.

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I would think that you have a better chance of getting into LBCC, if you are already at the school. Do they give any preference to existing students?

I am in So Cal as well and it is down right cut throat when it comes to competition. I am currently awaiting my decision for National University LA Cohort 10 -- I had an A in Microbio, A in stats, A in Physio and a C in Anatomy. As far as National is concerned, you are actually docked points for retaking classes. They also include a TEAS score in their admissions process - which I got 88% but there is still no guarantee I got into the program.

As far as So Cal is concerned you have the community colleges - most of which have wait lists. I have also heard that it has been extremely difficult to get a job here without a BSN. However, I say that for the hospitals I desire to work in. I don't know about LA or IE hospitals. You also have the state schools that have the BSN programs - some have the ABSN programs (though I don't think you have a BS/BA already?). They are extremely competitive to get into. In 100% honesty, if you are trying to get into one of those, you would have to increase your GPA I think.

In my research, Biola only accepted Biola students and I don't think they had an ABSN program, so I didn't pursue them further. They might be an OK option.

CSULB will most likely be very competitive. Again, I was looking more at the ABSN program, so I don't know what the admissions process/requirements are for a BSN.

I have heard great things about Mt. Saint Mary's -- off the top of my head I couldn't tell you much about the admissions process. I vaguely remember someone saying that it was difficult, but not impossible.

I think you need to consider what you want to do right now and just start looking at the application periods for whatever you want to pursue. If you want an ADN -- make sure you really focus on getting a decent grade in Physio this fall. On that note -- maybe take advantage of campus resources - tutoring, study labs, office hours, etc.

As far as CC - you have Santa Ana (their wait list was recently re-opened I believe), Golden West, Saddleback, LBCC, Rio Hondo, Chaffey, Evergreen (I think that is the name).

I've been in the process of getting into nursing school here in SoCal for 3 years now -- so happy to answer any questions you have. I have applied to Concordia ABSN - rejected, Western Health Sciences University - wait listed, Western Governor's OC Cohort and Pasadena Cohort - rejected. Currently I am waiting to hear if I made it into National. So I have done some research!

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thanks to all of the postings made on my thread. Yeah i am bit discouraged and down that my grades are not up to par with those who I am competing with. I am considering on going to a private college or probably retaking Microbiology and Anatomy again so i can better the odds that im against. My first attempt at physiology i got a W because i was overwhelmed on the demands from my advisor, 2nd attempt i foolishly took physio simultaneously with microbiology (which i shouldnt have done). Now with my third attempt i am taking physio with a low division english course and sociology. I realized that i poorly managed the time given to me and i have acknowledge that i need to make the appropriate sacrifices to reach my dreams and aspirations of being a nurse.

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thanks to all of the postings made on my thread. Yeah i am bit discouraged and down that my grades are not up to par with those who I am competing with. I am considering on going to a private college or probably retaking Microbiology and Anatomy again so i can better the odds that im against. My first attempt at physiology i got a W because i was overwhelmed on the demands from my advisor, 2nd attempt i foolishly took physio simultaneously with microbiology (which i shouldnt have done). Now with my third attempt i am taking physio with a low division english course and sociology. I realized that i poorly managed the time given to me and i have acknowledge that i need to make the appropriate sacrifices to reach my dreams and aspirations of being a nurse.

Hang in there!

Not sure how much you want to spend on school - but West Coast University is also an option. It is spendy, though which is the biggest drawback. You will hear a lot of with negative things to say, but they are WASC accredited. I have asked around at hospitals and where you got the degree isn't nearly as important as having one.

What about your volunteer experience? A lot of the BSN programs ask that you write a personal statement for entrance. It is worth beefing up your resume if you can. Ask around at hospitals or LTC facilities. The Clinical Care Extender program has great reviews I think. But if you have some free time, it would be worth the experience and the networking.

Though I hate to tell people about it because it still might mean more competition for me :)...you should also look into Western Governor's University. They have online didactic (academic piece) and hands on skills and clinicals. They have an OC program, Pasadena program and LA program.

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Hang in there!

Not sure how much you want to spend on school - but West Coast University is also an option. It is spendy, though which is the biggest drawback. You will hear a lot of with negative things to say, but they are WASC accredited. I have asked around at hospitals and where you got the degree isn't nearly as important as having one.

What about your volunteer experience? A lot of the BSN programs ask that you write a personal statement for entrance. It is worth beefing up your resume if you can. Ask around at hospitals or LTC facilities. The Clinical Care Extender program has great reviews I think. But if you have some free time, it would be worth the experience and the networking.

Though I hate to tell people about it because it still might mean more competition for me :)...you should also look into Western Governor's University. They have online didactic (academic piece) and hands on skills and clinicals. They have an OC program, Pasadena program and LA program.

I was thinking about going to West Coast University but its quite a drag paying 100k + for the 38 month BSN program. 2 of my friends go there and have 1 full year left. They suggested I go there and apply so I can save all the stress and hassle. Just going by what you said about National University and your lists of applications that you made out to the various universities. I come to realize how big of a hole I am in.

To answer your question about experience in voluntary work inside a hospital. To be frank, i currently have no experience.. I should have consulted with my professors or a friend so i have something on my resume. With that being said i have a long way ahead of me.

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Emergency, Trauma.
thanks to all of the postings made on my thread. Yeah i am bit discouraged and down that my grades are not up to par with those who I am competing with. I am considering on going to a private college or probably retaking Microbiology and Anatomy again so i can better the odds that im against. My first attempt at physiology i got a W because i was overwhelmed on the demands from my advisor 2nd attempt i foolishly took physio simultaneously with microbiology (which i shouldnt have done). Now with my third attempt i am taking physio with a low division english course and sociology. I realized that i poorly managed the time given to me and i have acknowledge that i need to make the appropriate sacrifices to reach my dreams and aspirations of being a nurse.[/quote']

It sounds as though you've fell into the "demands of the advisor" path...I know ALL about that! :yes:

Once I started researching and making informed decisions on my education, I saved my self money, and dusted myself off...this happened when I failed nursing school the first time.

I suggest you don't go to a pricey school; however, you can take a CNA course or a EMT course and get yourself some experience, take a breather and return to school for your pre req's-or get into a PN (practical nurse or VN/vocational nurse) program, and then bridge. The journey will be as exciting...I've been there, and it's made me a better nurse. ;)

Whatever you decide, research research research, and again, research your options...there is no rush to the finish line to get to that RN...run your own race for your success! :yes:

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It sounds as though you've fell into the "demands of the advisor" path...I know ALL about that! :yes:

Once I started researching and making informed decisions on my education, I saved my self money, and dusted myself off...this happened when I failed nursing school the first time.

I suggest you don't go to a pricey school; however, you can take a CNA course or a EMT course and get yourself some experience, take a breather and return to school for your pre req's-or get into a PN (practical nurse or VN/vocational nurse) program, and then bridge. The journey will be as exciting...I've been there, and it's made me a better nurse. ;)

Whatever you decide, research research research, and again, research your options...there is no rush to the finish line to get to that RN...run your own race for your success! :yes:

I actually followed the general course pattern outline (for CSU transfers) and did not consult with a counselor until my end of my sophomore year. i personally thought of pursuing the EMT program at LBCC but i am at a point where i need to get out of community college and transfer elsewhere, perhaps a university or cal state.

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Emergency, Trauma.

I actually followed the general course pattern outline (for CSU transfers) and did not consult with a counselor until my end of my sophomore year. i personally thought of pursuing the EMT program at LBCC but i am at a point where i need to get out of community college and transfer elsewhere, perhaps a university or cal state.

Ok...sounds like you needed help sooner, rather than later...:(

Transferring to a university, depending on your GPA MAY help...that is, if you have a strong study plan...go to those advisors in the ACTUAL program and interview THEM and see if they will help you with a plan of action.

In my experience, I transferred out of CC and went back after one semester...I didn't set foot in a university until five years later...after I went to PN school...and combated my test anxiety and was into my career as an LPN. I felt more prepared and confident, and had a plan on how to study successfully. :yes:

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Hi Dave_S I am in kind of the same situation as you. I have got all C's in my RN pre reqs and I have 1 more class to take. There is no way I am going to meet the gpa requirement to be able to apply. My school only allows 1 repeat so I have to take that repeat at another school since I did get a C in the science course. My school requires at least a 2.5 to apply and Ill only have a 2.4. I have found my reason for not getting A's which is great because some people go their whole lives just thinking their stupid and weren't meant to be a nurse. I know nursing is my calling and it is in my heart so I refuse to give up. Im just not sure if I should pursue LVN first and then a RN bridge program; that's a 3 year wait also to get into the LVN program also so Im so confused as to what to do right now. Good luck in what you decide to do.

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I guess I would ask "why" you scored average or below in all areas. Did you try to take too many Credit Hours? Are you working and going to school? Or is there anything else going on in your life preventing you from dedicating more time to critical areas needed for the RN program? If so, you may want to adjust your schedule to allow yourself more time to study. I'm the type of person who would never encourage anyone to give up or quit. If being a Nurse is your dream, stat the course and buckle down. It will be difficult with your scores to get into colleges in my area with your current scores, but I presume different areas of the country may be different. Go talk to your advisor would be my other piece of advice. They can steer you in the right direction.

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