Competitiveness for direct to MSN programs (Columbia, PACE, NYU)

[vonconz]

Hi all!

I am new to this site and I was wondering if anyone could shed some light on the qualifications for acceptance for NYC direct to MSN schools. I have researched this subject tirelessly, and while I've gained some valuable information (particularly from this site :)) I am still nervous about my particular situation.

I am wondering if I should be doing something more to make my application more competitive. My dream school is Columbia, but I am coming from a background completely outside of the medical field. I have a B.A. in English with a concentration in Psychology, with a high GPA, and am currently completing prerequisites. I currently work in an unrelated position, but I am applying for receptionist jobs at a medical office (hopefully this will give me some edge?). I also volunteer at a crisis hotline. I am planning to specialize in Psychiatric nursing. I want to start applying within the next year or two.

I cannot leave NYC because I cannot fund living away from home.

I am sorry if this was way too long of an explanation, but I am really panicking that I won't have the credentials to get into any of the programs! I would love some advice! Are there other programs I should be considering? How can I make my application more competitive? I work on a hotline but not in a hospital setting. Should I also try and seek out volunteer work in a hospital (I don't really have time for this but if necessary I will do what it takes!).

Thanks so much for your time and I hope to hear from you. I am extremely excited about the possibility of becoming a nurse and I want to be able to put my best foot forward!

Lore