healthcare experience

[formerSLP]

Hi There! I am taking prerequisites for nursing school, so that I can finally pursue my dream of becoming an RN. My only real world experience is working as a speech therapist in a public school. I am planning on working as a CNA in a hospital after completing my training at Clarkson, but I am wondering if this is sufficient experience for applying to nursing schools in the Omaha area (I plan on applying to every program in Omaha & Council Bluffs region), or if it would be worth my time to also volunteer. My GPA from my former degree is not bad(3.4), and have a 4.0 at metro, so I think my chances are decent that I will get in to one. I'm worried I may be getting over my head by working as a CNA, taking prerequisites, and volunteering, but I really want to increase my chances if at all possible.

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!

Also, does anyone know about the competitiveness of schools in the Omaha area?

[123becky]

Please do work as a CNA prior to becoming a nurse. I have 33 years of nursing experience (I include my years a a CNA & CSM, as well as the last 27 years as an LPN). From my observations, CNA's make the best nurses, LPN or RN. You will appreciate the CNA's more as well as develop deep respect for what they are doing, they are really the "nurses" at the bedside. I wish you well. There are a lot of plsces that do need GOOD CNA's in Omaha right now. Go ahead & take the training. you will not regret it. Good Luck (remember, nurses eat their young, get thru that you can get thru anything). 123becky

[natrgrrl]

I just got accepted to the nursing program at Metro so I can tell you a little about their program. Everyone that I have talked with that got accepted has a 4.0 for nursing prereqs, other classes don't matter as long as Metro GPA is 2.0.

As far as competition at 4 year schools, I haven't heard anything except for accelerated programs and UNMC. College of Saint Mary and Clarkson should be easy enough for you to get accepted to. Not sure about Creighton or Methodist.

If you aren't in the Omaha area, check out UNMCs other campuses. I hear they are not as difficult to get in to.

I agree with the other poster who recommends getting CNA job. I wish I could work at least part time as CNA but I tried and couldn't juggle my husband, 4 kids and school along with the job.

Good luck to you.