I am a new grad nurse in an ICU, who's ultimate goal is to be a CRNA and I just want to know based on the following information about me, do I stand a chance of getting into CRNA school, and if not what can I do to improve my chances?:
1) I work in the ICU at a very well known teaching hospital with extremely high acuity patients and receive lots of education through my job. Also am a part of our unit improvement committee as well as am working on a research project for our unit.
2) I have a 3.23 overall GPA. I am one of those who didn't do well in my sciences due to lack of focus but retook each science (A&P 1/2, Chem 1&2) and made all As and a B when I retook them and made As the first try in Patho and micro. I also have a 3.3 or 3.4 nursing GPA (As and Bs in nursing school). I really regret letting my gpa fall by the wayside in the beginning
3) I plan to take the GRE in the 6m-1yr and
make 300 or above combined
4) I will get my CCRN as soon as I'm eligible
5) I will also take a graduate level physiology course and make an A
6) I have already shadowed a CRNA for 25 hrs and plan to do more
7) I also will be attending a workshop for aspiring CRNAs as a way to network and learn even more about the profession
8) last but not least, I want this more than anything, and know if I get the chance to get in I will not take it for granted
Tenacity is the ultimate strength of any applicant to anesthesia programs. It's important to take notice of the type of program you're applying to and the institution that offers it. Every program and college is different. Years of ICU experience is key in many cases. Most people apply with one year and don't get in because they lose out to those with 3+ years of experience. You don't have to be a stellar straight A student but you must demonstrate that you have the ability to persevere. Use this website and look through interview suggestions, look for programs that consider applicants holistically not just on GPA. There are many people who have been accepted with 1 year of ICU but more probably have not. As far as schooling most places look at your AnP, statistics, and chemistry courses. They also want to see how many hours a week you work. Are you only work 24-36 hours? Will you be able to handle a 60 hour school/clinical week? I had rejections, wait lists, and acceptances in under my belt. I can speak to each case individually and how it feels.
Future1Intub8er1995
77 Posts
I'd have to agree with SPOLAR.