Finally applied

[yooper13]

Hi all--I'm new here (though I've been lurking somewhat), and I was able to finally apply to an LPN program a couple of weeks ago. At my school (a c.c.), as long as you have all the prereq's with the minimum grades, you are accepted, though you have to get on a waiting list. So now I'm waiting for the letter that tells me my start date. I have a full time job (I've been taking prereq's the past year, part time), but once I start the LPN program, I'll have to quit and find part time work. I make decent money presently, so I've been trying to be proactive financially (paying off credit cards and such) to prepare for when I have to quit. I have a daughter to take care of, rent and bills to pay, and I'm kind of worried about quitting my job to go back to school full time (I'm not married). I guess I'm just wondering if anyone else is in a similar situation...I am determined to do this, I'm just getting kind of nervous about how. This is why I'm doing LPN instead of RN...it's faster, and I can get back to work sooner...Plus, my school has a bridge program once you are an LPN for about 6 months, you can get right back in to complete your RN in 2 semesters. Any other single mothers out there who are going to start nursing school soon? I'm excited, but scared at the same time that I won't be able to balance everything/pay my bills (I'm planning on trying to get a CNA job, but it would be part time, and a LOT less money than I make now)

Thanks!

[Ike Arumba]

Hi! I just applied to a LPN program myself so I understand about the waiting!! I was a single mom for about 3 years with two small children, so I know that balancing can be a pain. The only advice that I know of to give you about finances while in NS is exactly what you are doing. Pay off as much stuff as you can now so that you don't have to worry about it during school. If you get financial aid, save as much of that as you can for when you aren't working but bills have to be paid. I know it sounds bad, but if you have to, once you start school and quit your job, get on state assistance(food stamps, medicaid for your child, etc.) at least that will be stuff you don't have to worry about the length of time you're in school. I know a lot of people don't like the idea of doing that, but to me, that's what the programs are designed for. Also, check and see if your state's workforce commission or dept of human services offers daycare help, if you think you might need it. Hope that helps!

[mangopeach]

If you have a spare room to do it, get a room mate. Also look into local scholarships. Sometimes they are for very small amounts, but if you get them, they really do help. Even if its $50 here or $100 there.