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hi, just wondering, i was picked to be an alternate for the fall 09 nursing program at WCCCD. anybody ever been an alternate or know of someone? what was your experience? should i start getting "ready"? thanks
I was an alternate in my RN program because of no available seat. I went from #10 to #7 to #3, and after being told there was no way I was getting in last fall (3 weeks before semester started) got a call 5 DAYS before the first class and told I was in. So I had no books, no uniform, no orientation, no idea that I was going to need the money NOW. I wouldn't recommend bying books, but I would go ahead and make sure you've got the money sitting in an envelope. One girl was told THE DAY OF THE FIRST CLASS. So make sure they've got your cellphone number....
I am in a class of 30 and last time i was on the alternate list and i know that two people did not start the program but they did not use their alternates they just started with 2 less. This time all of us that got in accepted our spot. They told me that in their regular program the wait list does have a shot but that the accelerated program is so specialized that if people get in they rarely if ever decline . GOOD LUCK!!!
Having money set aside is very good advice. I was told about having money for immunizations etc. by another friend who had recently been admitted into a program. Although my intentions were good I pinched off the money I had initially set aside until there was nothing. When I got the call that I was in the program I had applied for I was thrilled, only to have reality set in after reviewing the checklist of things that I needed to have taken care of and the money that I needed prior to any financial aid help. :icon_roll This was a burden of stress that I could have avoided entirely by heeding the advice I was given prior. I even thought about throwing in the towel because I can not financially afford the expenses. However, after going to open-house and speaking with financial aid I have been comforted and know that everything will work out. God has blessed me to make it this far and he will surely see me through, but we also have to help ourselves out by being wise in the decisions that we make.
No alternates don't automatically get in the next semester.. WCCD does not have a waiting list so you go up against whomever is apply that semester and if there GPA and points exceed yours they will be accepted before you. The alternate list is just used for that particular semester you are applying towards. Just in case someone who is accepted backs out or does not have all there requirements for the first meeting. Have you been to information meeting? I have been 3 times because they keep changing the program and dates. But you must have gone to one if you already applied. I am doing well. I currently have a 3.87 gpa and i have 2 classes left to take before i apply. Not easy thing to do when your 41 and have young kids but i am lucky to have a very supportive husband. I wish you all the best and if you don't get that call please make sure you ask them if there is anything you need to fill out so that you are reapplying in Feb. I don't know if they do it automatically for those who didn't get in or if you just have to fill out another app form. I do know you don't have to go through the other info they require the first time but after the second time you do have to start all over with the application process. Good Luck!!
lunden
380 Posts
wow i would think if u r an alternate u would automatically get n next semester. but anyways how is school going? are you n the program?