Do you think there are any negitives to getting accepted to the Spring start program?

[mom25]

I was wondering if you guys thought there were any negatives in being accepted into the Spring start over the Fall start? I was thinking that by the time we graduate some of the new grad programs are already full at the hospital or the externships are already taken. Any advice? I got accepted into the Spring start and I think I am going to go but the Fall start may work better. Thanks so much in advance!!

[srn2009]

I dont think that there is a drawback for starting in spring. Don't forget you have to prepare for and pass the licensure exam after you graduate. Finding a job depends on a state. I think if you make contacts at the hospitals where you do your clinicals you will be fine.

[WantAccel.BSN, BSN, RN]

I live outside of Greensboro NC. I really want to work nights weekends in a hospital, I don't want to work at a LTC facility. I also thought doing an externship would be the best bet for me. Thanks for all the kind words and encouragement.

I have a five sememster program and it includes the summers. Do your include going to school in the summer?

Just curious, are you doing the ABSN program at UNC? I live in Durham, NC, and that is one of two programs I am interested in.

[jeepgrl944]

I started in the Spring (spring 2007). I have not perceived any disadvantages to starting in the spring. I wouldn't put it off until the fall. My 2-year community college program includes being off the first summer, during which I HIGHLY suggest reviewing patho and/or reading ahead the A&P/assessment chapters of your text for each unit (respiratory, endocrine, cardiac, etc). I honestly felt like the 2nd summer was bootcamp, having Adult Health II (also called Med-Surg II), but looking back I wouldn't have it any other way. We got through quickly, and I don't think I could have taken an entire regular semester of that class!

[jeepgrl944]

Oh, and I'm surprised to hear that it's difficult to find nursing jobs in your town. I live in a city with only 2 major hospitals. My hospital hires GNs year-round, and I don't think it's harder to get hired if you graduate in December rather than April.