CRNA school admission ?

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Hi guys,

I am looking for advice from current SRNAs, CRNAs or even another ICU RN in the same position. I am currently an RN (25yrs old) working in a level one trauma medical ICU. I am looking to apply to CRNA schools within the next few years. I currently have 3 yrs experience on this floor, CCRN, TNCC, 1 yr charge experience, preceptor for new grads and externs, member of professional unit committee, and member of our CLABSI and CAUTI committees. I have also shadowed a CRNA 24 hours so far! I graduated from an ADN program with a GPA of 3.1 while working 2 jobs sometimes 40-50hrs/week. I will finish my BSN this fall. However, I started my BSN program the next semester after from graduating nursing school and starting in the MICU. During this time, I was taking two classes. Long story short, I had 2 family members who unexpectedly got very sick, I was super stressed btw working and going btw hospitals to see them and take care of things at home. I was able to withdraw from one of my classes. But the second one was too late, (it was accelerated and the drop date had passed), I was so far behind ended up getting an F on my transcript(nursing leadership class). I took 2 yrs off from the BSN. And restarted. I have received all A's since(retook that class last spring and got an A also). From my prereqs I have an A in stats, B in micro, A chem, A in A and P 1&2. Unfortunately, that F is apart of my cumulative GPA. If I do well in the fall, I think I will graduate with around a 3.4-3.5 GPA.

So I'm planning on studying and taking my GRE in the springtime and probably shadowing once more. Basically, I'm wondering if I should start applying next year or maybe I should take a graduate course to show that I am capable of graduate level work?? I think my stats are pretty good but the only thing that worries me is my GPA and that embarrassing F on my transcript. Honestly, I believe that my GPA is not a true reflection of my true capability, it is more reflective of maybe a lack of dedication at that time. I didn't realize that I wanted to be a CRNA until about two years ago! But will admissions committees understand this?

P.S Thanks for taking the time to read this. I have talked with some other RNs about this at work and most ppl are saying to go ahead and apply the worst that can happen is I won't get in. Totally agree but at the same time I do not want to waste my time and $. Just hoping to get some additional insight.

Is it worth trying to apply next year or should I wait and try to boost up my stats a bit??

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Specializes in ICU RN, current SRNA.

If your GPA will be 3.4-3.5 after you finish your BSN, I wouldn’t worry too much about taking any graduate level classes. You just need to focus on studying for the GRE and nailing that exam. I studied for 2 months for the GRE using magoosh, which was a great resource. Although, I would suggest starting earlier, maybe 4-6 months, which would give you time to study the extensive list of vocabulary words. Also, when you are looking into which schools to apply, make sure you have any pre-req classes that they require (organic chem, biochemistry, physics, etc) but your gpa alone is pretty good if you don’t have to take these classes. Interview committees may or may not ask about your transcript so be prepared to explain it, but it sounds like you have a very reasonable explanation.

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Specializes in CRNA.

A single F in leadership won’t be a problem in most programs. Score well on the GRE and that will allay any concerns about academic ability.

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Specializes in SRNA.

I’m just an RN who is in the process of getting into school. In my experience, they’ll probably ask you about the F. You have a good answer. I would shorten it up a bit, but it’s a good “reason.” They’ll move on from that topic much faster than you are imagining. Like love said, do well on GRE. Have an answer for “what have you done to prepare for the study of anesthesia?” One F is not all doom and gloom.

As for the courses such as health assessment I would just call the admissions coordinator for a few programs you would like to go to and ask them what they think about the classes you already have. They may want you to send in your transcripts first, they may want you to pay the application fee first. I don’t know. But, start with calling them. Don’t be afraid that you’re bothering them. Just remember to be professional.

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I would start applying ASAP. Your credentials and GPA are perfectly fine. Rarely does anyone have a flawless GPA... let it go and during your interview be open and honest about the circumstances. I think taking graduate courses would be a waste of time and money. Take your GRE, get a stellar score, and start applying. Magoosh really is awesome!

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Specializes in CRNA.

I have 2 years of experience in a level 2 trauma icu, 3.5 cumulative gpa, 3.2 nursing gpa, I failed my pharmacology course the first time around in nursing school and I got 2 C's that same semester in Patho and Health Assessment. I also received a C in micro. I have no charge and no preceptor experience. I was an alternate for CRNA school. And i got called off of that list. My advice would be to apply, and BLOW them away during the interview. Because that is your ticket in, in my opinion. Because someone could have a 4.0 GPA and the best experience around, yet still not get accepted because they did poorly in an interview. Good luck!

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On 7/12/2019 at 10:05 AM, micurn95 said:

P.S Thanks for taking the time to read this. I have talked with some other RNs about this at work and most ppl are saying to go ahead and apply the worst that can happen is I won't get in. Totally agree but at the same time I do not want to waste my time and $. Just hoping to get some additional insight.

Is it worth trying to apply next year or should I wait and try to boost up my stats a bit??

I would apply now. You're not wasting your time/money if this is something you want to do. Most programs look at more than just your stats so don't worry and good luck!

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Mine as well go for it. You can always repeat the process if you don't get in and at least you get the advantage of being able to contact the directors and know what *you* can specifically do to boost your chances next time

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