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Hello Everyone!

I am brand spankin' new to allnurses as well as nursing in general. I recently switched my major from Elementary Teaching to Nursing and was looking for some advice. Currently, I go to school at a community college here in Arizona and I'm not quite sure on how to approach my Nursing career. Before I get into my question let me give you very brief information about myself. I'm 25 years old, in the process of purchasing a brand new home (move in October 2014), and planning my November 2015 wedding. Since I have all of this going on, I have to work full time AT LEAST until after I get married.

Nursing has always peaked my interest but I am my own worst enemy and never had the self confidence that I could finish. So I turned to teaching because the education isn't as hard as nursing school; from what I have done and heard so far. I decided to switch my major because it was time to challenge myself and I've always loved helping and caring for others. Plus, since I love working with kids, I figured I could work with them as a nurse. :)

In Fall 2014 I start a CNA program at local Technical College here in Arizona. I plan on quitting from current office job to work as a CNA while going through school. It was be easier to work school and work around each other. My question is, will this be possible? How many of you have/are doing this? I'm pretty good with time management so I'm thinking I will be fine.

Second question, after I finish the CNA program, I'd like to start knocking out some of my pre-reqs at my community college I've been attending. Are there any classes that you would recommend I not take at the same time as another? I heard some of the science classes are pretty brutal and I should take my time. Since I'm getting married at the end of next year, I was planning on taking only 2 classes in Spring 2015, a class or two in summer, and nothing Fall 2015. Does this sound like a good plan?

Third question, I've heard of some people going from CNA to LPN to ADN to RN, BSN, what are your thoughts on this? I was thinking about bypassing LPN and go directly to ADN. What are some of the you all have taken? I'm looking to obtain my BSN at ASU but I'm confused at how some of their programs work. Is there anyone on here from Arizona that did/is attending ASU?

I'm soooo incredibly nervous about everything.. I couldn't careless in high school so I never really developed good study habits or knew what my true ability was. Since taking Elementary Teaching class at my community college, I've maintained a 3.5 GPA so that's boosted my confidence.

Sorry for the long post! This is all so new to me and I'm trying to figure it all out. I appreciate and input/advice from everyone! :)

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Also, are there any books you recommend I read?

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First of all, it would benefit you greatly to speak to a counselor at ASU and at all of the schools in your area. They will have a lot of valuable information for you to help you get on track. Often, you can do research online and find exactly which courses will transfer. It's also important to note that there may be "pre-prerequisites" that you will have to take before you can even begin on the courses that count for transfer. At my school, they required a Chemistry class before you could take the Anatomy and Physiology series. And the Chemistry class required a certain level math class, etc. Find out what your school requires and plan out your next semesters. It is entirely possible, that it may not line up nicely with your per-determined plan, unless you are willing to spend an extra year.

Having your CNA could prove very useful! It isn't always required, but many schools will offer point incentives to applicants with prior health care experience. Many students on allnurses will tell you that working 2-3 shifts a week while attending nursing school is difficult, but doable. Heck, some even manage it while working full time and raising a family (but those people are probably robots in disguise, lol :borg:) However, everyone is different, and you may find it too difficult to maintain that kind of schedule and go to school at the same time. If you can afford to not work, then that is ok, too!

Going the LPN-ADN-BSN route will take you a long time. If you are looking to get your BSN, then why not just make that your goal? Do your best to maintain a stellar GPA and you never know what might happen when you apply! Many people, though, choose to go the LPN route and it works well for them, so again, it will take some soul-searching on your part. When you are ready to apply, you could always apply to as many programs to which you qualify (LPN, ADN, BSN) and see what happens!

Congrats on making the decision to start this journey. You've already made the first steps! Best wishes :)

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Specializes in ICU.

I could never work full time and do school. From what I am reading though, you do not have any children which may work in your favor. I am a single mom and I could not work and do schooling. Just too much. I agree with the PP that said to talk to advisors at the colleges in your area and see what they require. I had about a year and a half of prereqs to do before applying to the program. Also realize with planning a wedding you will be undertaking a lot. Wedding planning is stressful on top of working and school. Just plan ahead and stay very organized.

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I'm in school full time, just bought a house in October, getting married in spring 2015, 2 kids at home. In my

situation there is no way I could

work even part time and keep our family afloat. Even without kids I personally would only work per diem during semesters.

I don't know your situation. That's just my .02 on it.

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Hi.

If you are currently working in education. Or just working a decent job. I would just go back and do your nursing pre reqs and apply to nursing schools. Botha accelerated which are for people with prior degrees and regular bsn and even Adn's depending on your gpa. You can work as a cna once in school.

No reason to get your lpn before your rn.

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Welcome!

I am going for my ADN and begin my very first semester of pre-requisites tomorrow. I advise you to be very organized since you have already a ton on your plate. I just started a new job as of yesterday and I am engaged (he works too) with a son. It's going to be hectic but I think you can do it :)

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I'm an LPN going for my ASN then BSN. If u want to make decent money while u r in nursing school working a couple days a week, LPN would be useful. You would also get some experience working in healthcare. If money is not a concern, then by all means work as a CNA. It can be back breaking at times and very physical but it will get you accustomed to touching patients. Also, as far as classes go, I would not recommend taking AP and MICRO in same semester. Both are pretty tough and time consuming. Just make sure you stay organized and study in a way that benefits you (I am a flashcard girl). Make time to study on your days off in a quiet spot away from any noise or distractions. Nursing school is rough, you will need all the support u can get from family and friends. Hope this helps and Good Luck to You:)

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