Choosing a Direct Entry Nursing Program

Hi Josh!

First off, congratulations! That's an amazing position to be in. I was recently accepted into Rush University as well, and I also have a Master of Public Health.

In your case, the fact that you know you want to end up back in Chicago is huge. Being at Rush University would give you direct access to that job market, clinical placements in the area, and relationships with local health systems, which can make a big difference when it comes to landing your first role. Plus, avoiding the hassle of transferring licensure to Illinois later is definitely a practical win.

That said, Johns Hopkins University undeniably has strong name recognition. But from what I've heard, once you're working as a nurse, employers care more about your license, experience, and how you perform.. not necessarily the prestige of your school.

Honestly, it sounds like Rush aligns more with your long-term life plan, while Hopkins aligns more with short-term prestige and convenience. If cost is truly the same, I'd lean toward the place where you can build roots and connections where you actually want to live. But since your family and friends are in Chicago.. think about the amount of support you'll receive and the convenience to be around them when needed during this program. 

Also, I definitely think touring Johns Hopkins University could help you solidify your gut feeling, sometimes that clarity only comes once you experience both environments.

You really can't go wrong either way, but based on everything you shared, Rush sounds like a very strategic choice for your long term goals. I wish you the best and hope to see you in the fall, if you choose Rush!

Lolopop said:

Hi Josh!

First off, congratulations! That's an amazing position to be in. I was recently accepted into Rush University as well, and I also have a Master of Public Health.

In your case, the fact that you know you want to end up back in Chicago is huge. Being at Rush University would give you direct access to that job market, clinical placements in the area, and relationships with local health systems, which can make a big difference when it comes to landing your first role. Plus, avoiding the hassle of transferring licensure to Illinois later is definitely a practical win.

That said, Johns Hopkins University undeniably has strong name recognition. But from what I've heard, once you're working as a nurse, employers care more about your license, experience, and how you perform.. not necessarily the prestige of your school.

Honestly, it sounds like Rush aligns more with your long-term life plan, while Hopkins aligns more with short-term prestige and convenience. If cost is truly the same, I'd lean toward the place where you can build roots and connections where you actually want to live. But since your family and friends are in Chicago.. think about the amount of support you'll receive and the convenience to be around them when needed during this program. 

Also, I definitely think touring Johns Hopkins University could help you solidify your gut feeling, sometimes that clarity only comes once you experience both environments.

You really can't go wrong either way, but based on everything you shared, Rush sounds like a very strategic choice for your long term goals. I wish you the best and hope to see you in the fall, if you choose Rush!

 

Thank you, this is super helpful!! I do think I will most likely end up at Rush, for all the reasons you said too! I will let you know if I end up going to Rush, I would love to see you in the fall ?

NRSKarenRN said:

East Coast RN chiming in --Rush Univ. Nursing (#34)  has a great reputation nationally along with John Hopkins (#2) per US News Grad school list.  My alma mater  MSN/DNP isn't even listed on this years list.   If your looking to climb to Director/CEO level, Hopkins might open more doors.  Attending a well known local nursing program that has connections in the nursing community can actually be better in landing a desirable position + knowing local healthcare players to facilitate public health initiatives.  Having family support is a boone in relocating back to Chicago area.    Visit both schools to make best decision for your career.  ?

Good to know, thank you for this insight!! Since I don't plan to go into the c-suite level, Johns Hopkins may make less sense. I appreciate all your help ?