Day program vs. Night program

[Lovelymo79]

Hi All,

I've been "unofficially" accepted to my #1 nursing school (a diploma program) and I start in the fall - WHOO-HOO!!

Even though I orginally thought I wanted to do the evening program (because I have to work), I'm beginning to think more and more about doing the day program. My interviewer told me to let her know which choice I was going with (even though she said based on my bubbly outgoing personality, I would probably enjoy the day program). I will be officially presented before the board on next Monday (the 30th) and should receive my letter of acceptance next week sometime. I need to let her know as soon as possible which program I want to be in.

I need to work. Right now, the only job I have lined up (I will be leaving my present job) is to work as a substitute teacher in the fall. I can choose which days I want to go in and I like that flexibility. The money is good and I'll get out in enough time for class and clinicals. However, I won't have health insurance..which sucks.

I'm getting more interested in the day program because I've heard from others..during clinicals you get to learn more because a lot more is going on. And sometimes..the "better" instructors teach during the day. I would look into finding an evening job but with the economy and all..not so sure about how that will go. Also, I probably wouldnt' be able to get a nursing assistant position until after my first round of clinicals. I've been trying to get a unit secretary position as well but there seems to be some type of hiring freeze. UPS has flexible hours..and offer benefits, I think..so I may look into that.

What to do..what to do?!?!?! I'm also thinking about moving in with my dad and his family..which will save a lot of money..so while I still will have bills...it won't be as crucial as shelter and food.

Should I just go as planned and sub during the day and do school and clinicals at night..or do the day program, sub on days I don't have school (which I think may be 1 day a week) and get an evening job..hopefully with some benefits!

Let me know your and experiences. I know it's still a bit early but I like to plan! Much appreciated!!!!!

[sh1901]

Hi Lovelymo79 -

I'm in an evening/weekend program because I have to work. Honestly, I do not feel that I am missing anything. The biggest difference was when we were doing our clinical in LTC because we did PM care and then after that not much was going on. I will say that our instructors are great for the most part (you get some here and there no matter which option you choose), and our instructors have actually told us that our evening/weekend group does significantly better over all than the day group. I think that is in part to the fact that most of the evening/weekend students are returning adults and most of the day students are very young (many just out of HS) and they just aren't as motivated - I'm certainly not saying that is the case for ALL of the day students, I know several of them and they are very hard working.

It is basically going to come down to what works best for you in your individual situation. You will get your education and earn your RN regardless. Just make sure that you pick the option which will best enable you to succeed!!

Congratulations & Good Luck!

[Lovelymo79]

Thanks for your response. After thought and consideration (and a pro vs. con chart for each program! lol), I've decided to go with the evening program!

I think with me having to work..and being older..I'd much prefer to be with others who have to work (not saying that those in the day program don't work..but I'm sure there are more in the evening program).

Thanks again!

[chevyv, BSN, RN]

I love my evening program!!! I can't say enough that I love it . I'm finishing in May and feel like I'm ready to begin my nursing career. I am just as capable as any day program graduate for sure. Hope you like it as much as I did. Good luck to you!!