Harper - which route is better?

[pugluvr310]

Hi all! I'm going to be starting the nursing program at Harper College this August, it's 2 years to become an RN, but you have the opportunity to take a summer class in between those two years to get your LPN license. I was curious to if this was a route that anyone has taken or suggests? I'd like to start working as soon as possible (I'm hoping to get a CNA job after my first semester), but even if I get my LPN I still have another year of school so I won't be able to work full time anyways. Does it look better to have the LPN on your resume or would it be best to not take the summer class and just go right to your RN? If anyone has any suggestions or has done it either way I would love to hear about it! Thanks so much for your help!

[Jilaweez, BSN, MSN, RN]

Hi Pugluvr,

I just graduated from Harper and transfered to NIU. Most of my friends who went throught the nursing program decided to skip the lpn for different reasons, many didn't want to pay the extra money or take the extra time just for 1yr of experience. I think some were also concerned about finding work as an LPN in a hospital so they opted to work as PCTs and were able to find work easily. It is really up to you, if you have time and don't mind taking the extra class then go for it, it couldn't hurt. However, if it would put you out in anyway then it may not be worth it. Best of luck to you and Congrats on starting NS!