Essay Info, etc.

[lawc2315]

I am a newbie X 2 - here, as well as to the nursing field. Next semester I will be starting pre-reqs. I have heard it is extremely difficult to get into nursing school. I was reading on an earlier post that the essay is very important. That is one of the things I would like to focus in on this thread. I would like to get as much information/advice on this essay process as possible. The do's, the don'ts.

What are the things that I can do now to help my chances?

I am a 37 yr old mother of 2, just starting. I have one major drawback I didn't finish high school when I was a teen, I didn't get my GED either. I decided later in life that this was unacceptable to me and pursued my High School Diploma via a private school that sent me the materials and testing that I needed. Should I share this in the essay, or do you think it will even be an issue. Will they take notice that I am 37 and my HS Diploma dates in 2005 (lol)? Will they perceive this as a determined women, or should I leave well enough alone, not mention it and hope they don't notice. I am over apologizing for it, and I am no longer held up because of it. My only real concern is how it will be looked upon by a nursing school, and how or if I should include this as a part of the essay. For all I know the essay isn't about any of this. Help!

Last question (for now). At what point should I apply for nursing schools? The school that I am mostly looking at has 9 pre-req courses. How many should I have under my belt before I apply? All of them? Most of them? There is also a pre-entrance examination as well as recommendation letters that are required. Any information on how these recommendation letters should be done and by whom?

[sirI, MSN, APRN, NP]

I am a newbie X 2 - here, as well as to the nursing field. Next semester I will be starting pre-reqs. I have heard it is extremely difficult to get into nursing school. I was reading on an earlier post that the essay is very important. That is one of the things I would like to focus in on this thread. I would like to get as much information/advice on this essay process as possible. The do's, the don'ts.

What are the things that I can do now to help my chances?

I am a 37 yr old mother of 2, just starting. I have one major drawback I didn't finish high school when I was a teen, I didn't get my GED either. I decided later in life that this was unacceptable to me and pursued my High School Diploma via a private school that sent me the materials and testing that I needed. Should I share this in the essay, or do you think it will even be an issue. Will they take notice that I am 37 and my HS Diploma dates in 2005 (lol)? Will they perceive this as a determined women, or should I leave well enough alone, not mention it and hope they don't notice. I am over apologizing for it, and I am no longer held up because of it. My only real concern is how it will be looked upon by a nursing school, and how or if I should include this as a part of the essay. For all I know the essay isn't about any of this. Help!

Last question (for now). At what point should I apply for nursing schools? The school that I am mostly looking at has 9 pre-req courses. How many should I have under my belt before I apply? All of them? Most of them? There is also a pre-entrance examination as well as recommendation letters that are required. Any information on how these recommendation letters should be done and by whom?

:balloons: Hello and Welcome to Allnurses.com :balloons:

I am sure someone will come along and answer your questions. I admire you for getting your HS diploma. Yes, you may use that in an essay. I think it shows your determination and savvy.

Good luck!!

[hikernurse]

We couldn't apply until all our pre-reqs were done. The letters of recommendation should be written by someone you know professionally that can tell of your work habits as well as your shining personality :). I've been home with kidlets and haven't had a job so when I need a reference I have a couple of professors who have been willing to jump in.

I think getting your HS diploma at your age shows determination and growth rather than any negative traits. Depending on the topic, mentioning it wouldn't be a bad thing.