Columbia BSN/MSN ETP 2014

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I was surprised that there didn't seem to be a thread for this year's applicants to Columbia's ETP program. So I thought I would start one. The information session was today, but I wasn't able to go. :( I was hoping someone else went and would be able to post any admission statistics or tips for the personal statement they gave.

Also need to keep in mind that it's possible to work as a registered nurse after the first year. At the info session I went to they said that it's possible to take a year off to work after the BSN portion and still hold your spot in your masters program... I recall them saying that it's even required to take that year for some programs. Seems like a good chance to really save some money while also paying back interest on some loans to keep them from getting too out of hand. Gotta maximize all options and find the best way to get through it! Like @wanobenurse said, it's an investment in our futures!

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Also need to keep in mind that it's possible to work as a registered nurse after the first year. At the info session I went to they said that it's possible to take a year off to work after the BSN portion and still hold your spot in your masters program... I recall them saying that it's even required to take that year for some programs. Seems like a good chance to really save some money while also paying back interest on some loans to keep them from getting too out of hand. Gotta maximize all options and find the best way to get through it! Like @wanobenurse said, it's an investment in our futures!

I guess that's true, but that's QUITE an expensive investment that I hope pays off...

Also, for those of you moving to the NYC metro from other areas, good luck finding a job for that year off. This area is SO saturated with nurses, that 9 out of 10 hospitals don't even hire new graduates anymore. The ones that do get thousands of applicants for each spot, so don't bet on working!

The income based repayment would be great, but that would only be a small portion of the loans. The limit on graduate federal loans is $20,500 per year. This program goes far beyond that, so a large portion would be PRIVATE - thus not eligible for income based repayment nor forgiveness. The limit is $12,500 for undergraduate, so the the ABSN year I imagine it would be almost entirely private loans.

The more I research this, the more I start to get cold feet. I REALLY want to be able to go to Columbia, and I think I will take the plunge anyway if I'm accepted but...talk about scary! Anyone have any other info?

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I plan on applying for as many scholarships as possible and hopefully working somewhere that qualifies for loan forgiveness after graduation. I'm also hoping that my husband will be able to get a decent job in the city and pay for living expenses. I was talking to someone who did the ETP program at Columbia and he has his own private practice now and makes quite a lot...but he just makes it after adding loan payment into his bills. I'd say if you're going to just be a FNP at an HMO or something, columbia may not be the best. If you're going into an area where that Ivy League degree is going to open more doors and get you more patients, then it would be a good investment.

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Oy this is a great discussion I am reading because it is a very important reality to picking schools... but man this is stressing me out! haha

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I plan on applying for as many scholarships as possible and hopefully working somewhere that qualifies for loan forgiveness after graduation. I'm also hoping that my husband will be able to get a decent job in the city and pay for living expenses. I was talking to someone who did the ETP program at Columbia and he has his own private practice now and makes quite a lot...but he just makes it after adding loan payment into his bills. I'd say if you're going to just be a FNP at an HMO or something, columbia may not be the best. If you're going into an area where that Ivy League degree is going to open more doors and get you more patients, then it would be a good investment.

Yep, that's my fear. You're saying he makes a lot but just scrapes by after loan payments - that's really scary. And since this is a second degree program there are a lot of people who still have debt from previous degrees. I kept trying not to think about the financial impact and just focusing on getting in, but as the day for decisions looms closer, I'm taking a hard look at the numbers and its just really scary. People keep talking about using IBR and stuff, but don't realize that the Columbia program is so expensive that private loans (which DO NOT qualify for IBR, extended repayments, etc) will be a large portion of the debt upon graduation.

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Hey, all.... You need to rework your numbers. The first year of the program is $111,000, but that includes what the school budgets for room and board. It's a livable number if you are young and single, but with a family to support, I had to get additional loans to make ends meet.

However, the job situation is not as dire as predicted. I haven't graduated yet and have already fielded offers for employment.

That said, the program and the degree is worth every penny I pay. I couldn't be happier with my choice of schools.

Good luck!

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Specializes in Adult Gerontology Primary Care NP.

At this point, the most important name of the game here is patience. We still need to get the invite, then find out how much money is actually being offered.

Everyone's situation is different, including various degrees of responsibility, so I'm not going to suggest anything about finances, justify the cost, or the brand. For those of us who believe in it: "where there's a will, there's a way."

Anxiety can be contagious... don't let it catch you. My fingers are crossed for everyone, because I believe that we all would take advantage of the opportunity - and love it!!

Hopefully, one-ish week to go!

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Thanks Divobari, I agree. One step at a time...I am also keeping my fingers crossed for everyone to get exactly what they want and need :)

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I really appreciate everyone's perspective on this issue as for me, the cost of attendance will likely be a deciding factor in where I choose to enroll. That being said, we do all have different circumstances & we should keep in mind that what's best for us & what we are comfortable with may not be the way for someone else. At any rate, I'm wishing everyone the best of luck!

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Hi, everyone! I am new to this thread! I am also an ETP program applicant for this summer 2014. Nice to meet you all :) Has any of you applied for merit-based scholarships such as Robert Wood Johnson or Teich Foundation Diversity? I looked at the website and looks like the applications are not available at this time...but the deadline is March 1. I was wondering what other scholarships available and wanted to ask you guys about this since most of us are so so much worried about...financial burdens :( By the way, the D-day is coming...hopefully next week! Let's be patient :-)

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Happy February Everybody!

The time has come...drumroll...

Good luck future RNs! xoxox

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Yes indeed I know that we all are biting off our nail, i know i am but my stomach is telling me that good news is on it way...

Good Luck everyone

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