Help!!! I need to make a DECISION!!!

[addiesmom]

Hello everyone!

I am currently enrolled in an ADN program at my local CC, set to start this fall. This program is highly respected in my area, and difficult to get into (as are most programs these days). My tuition for the fall semester is due in one week, and I do not know what to do...I have been seriously considering an accelerated BSN program at a local college.

A little bit about me, I am 29 years old, with a 3 year old daughter, a single mom. I have a strong supportive family backing me up with which ever decision I make. I have a previous degree in Criminal Justice. I want to get out there, start working, and be at a point that I should be at 29 years of age (buying a house, etc).

I know that I do eventually want my bsn, if not an advanced practice msn. In my area, a bsn is not required to work at a hospital...yet (it is only a matter of time, I heard a rumor that they want 80% bsn nurses by 2013). The community college is obviously cheaper than the accelerated bsn. I would start this fall and be done in the spring 2013. With the accelerated bsn, I would not be able to start until next fall, 2012, and be finished summer of 2013 (3 consecutive semesters).

I do not know, if going the adn route, once I graduate and get that first nursing position, if I would be willing to go the rn-bsn route. I would be dealing with the stress of a new job, and being a single mom. I do not know if it would fit into my schedule.

I need some help and direction, from some that are in the field, or have been in the same situation as I. Any and all advice is appreciated. I thank you all in advance. :)

[ali&addiesmom]

BSN is the absolute minimum degree you want to get. If you can, with family support, get your MSN!! It is very difficult to work, go to school, be a mom, take care of the house you want to buy, AND take care of a man (husband)!! So definitely get your schooling done now while you can, no matter what the financial differences are. You are a single mom and should qualify for the PELL Grant and other grants/scholarships. The hospital I work in just recently announced effective January 2012, they will no longer be hiring any RN without a BSN! Who knows what it will be like to find a nursing job in 2013 or beyond?? Any edge you can get now will be worth tenfold later. I hope this helps. Good luck to you and your daughter (I have 2 of my own ~ 7 yrs & 1 yr.) :)