i'm 18 graduating from an alternative school. Want to become an RN?

1styearsucks · Nov 5, 2008

I am concerned with how you view your own intelligence. You said some pretty negative things about your own abilities. Please believe me when I tell you confidence is very important to become a nurse. You have to have confidence in your own abilities.If you do not it will show.Also, as a nurse we have to remember and be aware of so many things at one time.I am not trying in no means to discourage you. Just telling you the truth.

Have you ever had some legal problems do to previous drug use?That could be a problem.

That fact that you are concerned and care enough about it to put a post up says a lot about you. Good luck to you!!!!!!!! :nurse:

woknblues · Nov 5, 2008

I probably can't add much to the general show of support here, but I will.

You can do anything you put your mind to. I promise you that.

Also, remember that memory is a trained tool, and nobody is really "born" with it. I suggest you pick up a copy of any book written by Harry Lorayne. Very good for would be students and or people who think they "can't remember". You can, it is likely just that you never really remembered it in the first place.

Hopefully, if you pursue nursing, you will eventually learn that people can rehabilitate their minds, as well as their bodies in nearly every circumstance. Also, do not neglect your emotional aspect. Talk to people you trust. Find a mentor, set goals and go for it!

waitingforthedream · Nov 5, 2008

Twenty years ago, I was where you are right now. I turned my life around. I started back to school at the age of 40, and am proud to say I have maintained a 3.9 average the whole way through nursing school. You can do it, just do not wait as long as I have. Be proud of what you have already accomplished, I know how hard it is!! You might have to work a little harder, but it is worth it. Don't give up on your dream, and give yourself a little credit, you deserve it. :yeah:

Valerie Salva, BSN, RN · Apr 8, 2009

You will need to admit your history of drug use to your state BON. That may delay things a bit and give you a few extra hoops tp jump through.

If you pay attention in class, always show up and aren't late, try hard, accept personal responsibility for your actions, and make doing well your priority, you can do it.

WoofyMutt80 · Apr 8, 2009

I too went to Alt. Ed. from grades 8-12 for learning and behavior reasons. I went to community college and got my Medical Assistant certificate. I know of many people like you and me that went thru Alt Ed and made it far. In about 2 years or so I will be looking at RN programs.

geekgolightly, BSN, RN · Apr 8, 2009

You will need to admit your history of drug use to your state BON. That may delay things a bit and give you a few extra hoops tp jump through.
If you pay attention in class, always show up and aren't late, try hard, accept personal responsibility for your actions, and make doing well your priority, you can do it.

Are you sure about that? I remember the questions being worded as "Have you ever had a felony," and "In the last five years have you been treated for mental health or drug dependence issues."

sbyramRN · Apr 8, 2009

Are you sure about that? I remember the questions being worded as "Have you ever had a felony," and "In the last five years have you been treated for mental health or drug dependence issues."

I don't think you have to admit anything you did as a minor.

GooeyRN, ADN, BSN, CNA, LPN, RN · Apr 8, 2009

I had a less than idea high school education, and was far from an angel. :chuckle I made it through nursing school with all A's. It was hard work, and I had to start with remedial classes, but I got my RN license! Go for it!

geekgolightly, BSN, RN · Apr 8, 2009

In Texas these are the questions you must answer, so check your state board to see what you will be up against.

# Are you currently the target or subject of a grand jury or governmental agency investigation?

# Has any licensing authority refused to issue you a license or ever revoked, annulled, cancelled, accepted surrender of, suspended, placed on probation, refused to renew a license, certificate or multi-state privilege held by you now or previously, or ever fined, censured, reprimanded or otherwise disciplined you?

# Within the past five (5) years have you been addicted to and/or treated for the use of alcohol or any other drug?

# Within the past five (5) years have you been diagnosed with, treated, or hospitalized for schizophrenia and/or psychotic disorder, bipolar disorder, paranoid personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, or borderline personality disorder?

For any criminal offense, including those pending appeal, have you:

A. been convicted of a misdemeanor?

B. been convicted of a felony?

C. pled nolo contendere, no contest, or guilty?

D. received deferred adjudication?

E. been placed on community supervision or court-ordered probation, whether or not adjudicated guilty?

F. been sentenced to serve jail or prison time? court-ordered confinement?

G. been granted pre-trial diversion?

H. been arrested or have any pending criminal charges?

I. been cited or charged with any violation of the law?

J. been subject of a court-martial; Article 15 violation; or received any form of military judgment/punishment/action?

http://www.bon.state.tx.us/exam-eligibility.htm

I was like you, and in high school and just out of high school (it lasted a bit longer for me) I was an absolute mess. But I cleaned myself up by age 24, and at age 30 entered an ADN program and became a nurse at 32. You can so do this.

Be proud of yourself. You have struggled with a very serious issue and tackled it rather than running away. That takes a huge amount of strength, so give credit where it is due. You're smart enough to see your way out of a terrible situation. If you want this, it is absolutely within your reach. Take care.