Drexel ACE program- don't listen to those who say it's impossible. A positive take.

Hey guys,

I've been reading a lot of negative comments on the ACE program and I want to write this so people aren't scared away from it (like I almost was when I read this stuff last summer). I currently just finished the program- passed the dreaded exit HESI that everyone talks about with a 1041.

While the program is extremely intense and is not something that I would do again, I will say that I am glad that I did it. It's what you expect... a very intense 11 month BSN program. Yes, you will see some of your classmates fail out (usually around q2). Yes, you have to say goodbye (somewhat) to your social life. Yes, you need to study A LOT. It's doable though! I think the first quarter for me was the hardest and then after that, I kind of knew what I had to do - prioritization wise. I still had somewhat of a social life, too... but I also missed out on some important events due to clinicals, finals week, etc. You have to expect the worst going into it. It really isn't bad though.

It's true that for most classes, you only have 1 midterm, 1 final, and 1 HESI that are part of your grade - for some classes, you have 1 midterm, 2 quizzes, 1 final, and 1 HESI...and you usually juggle about 21-23 credits each quarter... it's scary... scariest thing I ever did... but you can do it! If you want to get your BSN in a short period of time, go for it! Don't let others freak you out! I'm happy I went through with this because I am finished now- currently waiting to take my boards (but if you pass Drexel's HESI with a score of a 925, you are basically 99.something% guaranteed to pass the NCLEX- they prepare you SO well)... I was a straight A student going into this program- and each quarter, I usually got all As and 1 B... the last quarter I had gotten all As...graduating with around a 3.7... if you study and put the time into it.. and really try and remain positive...you can complete this program.

Many employers around the country are familiar with this rigorous program too...I can't tell you how many nurses and nurse managers at my different clinical sites would tell me "If you can get through this program, you can get through anything in nursing". They know how good this program is and how well it prepares you and ACE students are wanted!

If you have any questions about the program, feel free to ask. Don't let others scare you away because everyone is different. Everyone has different experiences and honestly, this program is not as bad as everyone makes it out to be. Remaining positive and confident in yourself will go a long way. :)

-Meliss