Help with Pre-N decision

[PAR67]

I just joined this forum because it looks like I can get a straight-up, no bs, real-world assessment here. I am just in the stage of looking for BSN program. So, here is a little about me:

Male, 42 years old with a wife and family and another bambino on the way :)

I live in central Ohio and relocating for school is not an option.

I am extremely partial to The Ohio State University (growing up in Columbus will do that to you). Getting my hopes up to be accepted to the CON, but heard that it is a tough nut to crack to get in. The other school I would be interested in is Otterbein. However, I have no idea how I could afford their $27,000 annual tuition!

I am no stranger to medicine. I was a Paramedic in the fire service for 15 years. I left to go start my own business which lasted for a whole 5 years. The pull of health care was always there. I knew the business I had gotten into was not for me. I was working for myself, but was miserable. So, I am going to do what my heart tells me.

I have been out of school for many years and the university experience makes me nervous. I have no interest in attending our community college. For one, the waiting list is absurd. Two, my ultimate goal is that of a NP, whether it be a FNP or ANP. But, hey, one degree at a time. So, the BSN route makes more sense to me to be better prepared for the MSN.

Does anyone here have experience with OSU and the College Of Nursing? Will my 'maturity' and experience benefit me in being accepted to a BSN program? Or, will it strictly be based on pre-req GPA?

I do have an appointment with an OSU admissions counselor on March 10. I am eager to hear what they tell me. However, I will be cautious.

Any advise and input is greatly appreciated.

Paul

[ItsTheDude]

osu nursing program should have it's admission criteria listed (detailed), all i found on a quick search is this: http://www.con.ohio-state.edu/Display.aspx?code=122

it's not real detailed (the 1st paragraph is vague) on exactly how they select people. the odds they list for getting in are pretty good though (about 1 in 3.3), much easier than getting into most cc programs, as you state to get into your local cc nursing program is "absurd".

one you do get a detailed list of how they select candidates, you may find that being male, emt, etc gives you an advantage (points).

[ff/paramedic2rn]

Good luck dude...let me now how its going. I'm 53 yom w/2 sons in college...retiring as a Fire Captain/Paramedic.....wondering about the logistics of the same stuff you are...going to a couple nursing college open houses next week.

[Anoetos, BSN, RN]

As much as it pains me to admit this (if you cut me I bleed Maize and Blue) I would certainly expect a nursing program at tOSU to be excellent in every respect.

I would also think your EMT background would only help you. As for your maturity, I can't offer any insight as far as a larger state university goes, hopefully your admissions counselor won't just be a head hunter and will be able to offer you a candid answer.

All the best, good luck to you, and I really, really hate Jim Tressell.