Did you work while going to CRNA school?

[glenlorie]

Hi everyone,

I am just starting out my nurse education, I was excepted into the RN program through Murray State College (is is just an associates degree) but then I am going to get my Bachleor's degree and then my Master's. I am going back and fourth between becoming a Nurse Practitioner or a CRNA. My husband and I have 5 children (I know, I started school a little late, I'm 26) and I would really rather work and go to school, even if it is just part time. My husband works, our home is paid for, our vehicles will be paid off in two years (long before I start either Master's program). I was just wondering, did any of you work while attending either CRNA or Nurse Prac. school? Did you regret it or was it do-able? Thank you all very much for taking the time to read this. Enjoy your weekend!!!!

Best wishes!

[Nishas22]

Hi!

Wow, thats alot of kids! lol I love kids though. Anyways, I am applying for grad school this year. I did work during my bachelors though on a per diem basis and it was definitely do-able. I am applying for CRNA school and have heard that it is average 60+ hours a week, including average study time, classes, clinicals, etc. Some schools here in Miami state in their applications that one must be financially prepared and cannot work during this time for the CRNA program, and that they will be terminated from the school should the school find out that the student is working. The ARNP program, I heard, is less strenuous and does allow you to work. I always wanted to be a CRNA versus an ARNP because of the difference in type of work (and pay). I somehow always had the image of an ARNP being like a Doctor's ***** and I'd prefer to be a little more independent and far away from bedside in the OR. But that is all up to personal preference. I hope this helps! Have a good day

[Lunah, MSN, RN]

Moved to the post-grad forum (vs. the GN forum) to encourage responses.

[glenlorie]

Thank you both so much!

[BCRNA]

You can't do crna school and work. The program is not available part time and will take 40-50 hours of your time a week (minimum). You could work, but you would hate life and struggle in school. I would highly recommend doing it. I love anesthesia. Great profession. The NP route is much less strenuous. Not as intense in clinical hours or basis in hard sciences. It too is a great profession, especially if you can only do part time.