For those with a 3.0 undergrad who want to become a CRNA

Nursing Students SRNA

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I had multiple people tell me how hard CRNA school was and how "nobody" can do it. I received a bachelors of science in Exercise and Wellness, while playing football at a D1 school. I was on a full scholarship for football and my grades didn't end up being the best- I had a 3.0 After I graduated I knew I wanted to be in the healthcare field, but did not have the grades for medical school. I thought about PA school but it didn't seem like the right fit for me. My wife helped me research and we found CRNA jobs and it sounded just up my alley. I went to do an accelerated nursing program to become an RN with a BSN and I received a 3.8GPA. I then was hired on into an ICU Nuero-shock-trauma unit where I worked for almost 3 years. I have a wife and 3 kids, and I continued to work hard. I retook classes I didn't do well in while getting my undergrad degree, and also took the GRE and all other required classes and received A's in them. I applied to two CRNA schools the first year and was waitlisted at one, but then the next year got into 2 of the schools I applied to, and TCU is where I picked, and I have to say it was one of the greatest moments. I am in my last year doing my clinical residency and will graduate in January. I am here to prove that if you want it bad enough, and you work hard enough you can achieve it. I had a lot of friends who laughed when I told them this plan years ago, thinking me and my family were crazy for doing this, but now I'm starting to interview for jobs and I can say this was the right choice for me and I absolutely love this career. Message me if you have any questions. I wanted someone to read this to know that they can do it! Believe in yourself. I also have a 4.0 currently. Just because you didn't do great in your under grad, doesn't mean you can't become a CRNA.

Specializes in CRNA, DNP-A.

@Erufot CONGRATS on finishing your first semester at TCU! sorry I'm late in replying, I don't get on here much. Just be prepared to study a lot, get on a study schedule and stick with it. Have dedicated study time, and dedicated free time. Use quizlet! that will be your best friend. Good luck!

Specializes in CRNA, DNP-A.

@SquatsNScrubs

Here are my burning questions-do you think it’s necessary to feel confident in your abilities as an ICU nurse prior to applying to CRNA school? I have been an RN for 3 years (1.5 yrs med-surg —> 1.5 years CVICU). I have only experienced a handful of codes, and carrying the arrest pager still makes me nervous, LOL...I’m studying for my CCRN now. I feel like I still have so much to learn. My unit does open hearts, CRRT, IABPs, etc but the really sick pts (ECMO/transplants) get transferred downtown.

In answer to that question, for the most part I felt confident as an ICU nurse, however, being in the OR is very different from ICU nursing and you can still make a great CRNA, even if you don't feel extremely confident yet as an ICU nurse. You will always be learning and getting better, and CRNA school has helped build that confidence- especially my clinical site.

Also...can you speak on the average age of your classmates? I’m 24 and fear I am too young/inexperienced for grad school.

No that is not too young, I have classmates ranging from mid twenties to a fifty year old. Message me if you have anymore questions, hope this helps!

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