Concordia NY Fall 2018

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Hey all! I was recently admitted to Concordia's Fall 2018 ABSN program and figured I'd start a thread on it, since I haven't noticed one yet. Anyone have any questions? Concerns? Etc?

No normally scheduled clinicals on weekends, only paid makeups.

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I'll be attending this and I can't wait to get started. Super anxious but also excited as well.

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What did you find was the most challenging aspect of the program? Also did you work while attending?

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What did you find was the most challenging aspect of the program? Also did you work while attending?

The accelerated nature of the program was the biggest challenge. Normally each class is given 3 exams, if you don't do well on either of the first two exams there is tremendous pressure to "make up" the points in order to pass the course. (Passing grade in all classes is a C+ (77), not C- or C.) The first semester is not so bad, however, the second (Spring-Early Summer) semester can be really tough. In addition to Med/Surg II, Pharm II and Geriatrics you'll also have 2-3 "social" nursing courses and possibly two mandatory religion classes (remember Concordia is a Lutheran school).

With regards to working, I personally didn't and would advise against it. I knew of at least 5 students decelerate and/or fail out who simply did not have enough time to handle school and work. Of those who did both and succeeded, they usually were in jobs that were SUPER flexible (babysitter, waitress) and only worked for a few hours 1 or 2 days a week. The others who got through while working normally struggled to maintain the C+.

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The accelerated nature of the program was the biggest challenge. Normally each class is given 3 exams, if you don't do well on either of the first two exams there is tremendous pressure to "make up" the points in order to pass the course. (Passing grade in all classes is a C+ (77), not C- or C.) The first semester is not so bad, however, the second (Spring-Early Summer) semester can be really tough. In addition to Med/Surg II, Pharm II and Geriatrics you'll also have 2-3 "social" nursing courses and possibly two mandatory religion classes (remember Concordia is a Lutheran school).

With regards to working, I personally didn't and would advise against it. I knew of at least 5 students decelerate and/or fail out who simply did not have enough time to handle school and work. Of those who did both and succeeded, they usually were in jobs that were SUPER flexible (babysitter, waitress) and only worked for a few hours 1 or 2 days a week. The others who got through while working normally struggled to maintain the C+.

This is all great information, thank you for your reply! What about the summer time? Is there a break at all?

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This is all great information, thank you for your reply! What about the summer time? Is there a break at all?

There is a six week break from the middle of July to the end of August.

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Is anyone else waiting to hear back from admissions?

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is anyone going to accepted students day on april 7? I heard it's for all students that got accepted to concordia and not just this program so I wasn't sure if I should go or not

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There is a six week break from the middle of July to the end of August.

Okay these are my last questions for you and I promise I'm done!

What was the last semester like? Someone told me that it is mostly online, is this true?

And any tips on how to finance the program? Did you have to take a loan out?

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Okay these are my last questions for you and I promise I'm done!

What was the last semester like? Someone told me that it is mostly online, is this true?

And any tips on how to finance the program? Did you have to take a loan out?

No worries.

The last semester is markedly easier than the previous Spring/Summer semester. Depending on your group you will be taking Psych/Community Nursing or Obstetrics/Peds along with Nursing Leadership. Your final class is NUR452 which is your 4 week capstone clinical course. (Basically, it is like clinical except you are one on one with your clinical instructor/mentor.) Earlier in the semester you are asked to list your top three choices for preceptorship. Nothing is guaranteed, however. Additionally, you may be given an overnight shift. You'll just have to grin and bear it. You will be surprised just how infrequently you may be on campus, however, that does not mean you don't have a lot to do. In addition to all this, there are a number (4 or 5) of online proctored computerized ATI exams we are mandated to complete. Two of the exams help predict your first time NCLEX pass rate. (This was probably the "online" portion you were told about.) Also, seniors have a number of simulations they need to pass that are scheduled throughout the year. Although busy, you will be shocked just how quickly the semester passes. By the second week of Dec, you are pinned and begin to prepare for your NCLEX.

I took out both private and government loans for the entire program. Meet with financial aid and make sure to always complete your FASA EARLY. Remember the hidden costs, i.e. gas, tolls and parking.

If you have any additional questions just feel free to ask.

All the best and good luck!!!!

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Hi guys I've been accepted for next year and was just wondering is there a way we meet or get to each other before we start?

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There will be an orientation in the summer, June I believe.

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