Help....

SummerGarden, BSN, MSN, RN · Nov 17, 2006

Everyone I talk to says "NO NO NO just go right for the RN, Lpns dont make any money and You will work no where but a nursing home" but its not that easy!!! Any advice will be helpful thanks!!

First, everyone giving you advice is not paying your bills! Stop listening to people who are not providing for you and your child, but he/she feels the need to give you his/her opinion that may harm you two financially!!! :uhoh3:

Secondly, I do not see anything wrong with your plan. If I were rich, I would go through an Accelerated BSN program. Since I am not rich, I am going through a regular ADN program.

A year ago I started taking the classes I needed and recently was accepted. However, during the 5 years prior to my RN journey I worked full-time to get out of debt and save money so I could afford to work part-time and to pay cash to attend this program.

While I worked, I heard similar advice. People told me I was very smart so I should quit my job and go back to school to become a Nurse. I was also told to find loans, which would put my family into further debt, and follow my dreams. However, none were willing to pay for my schooling or living expenses!!! So, I ignored them.

Listen to your gut and do what is best for you and your family. Good luck.

Columnist · Nov 17, 2006

So Im thinking of looking into the 1 yr LPN program, then work maybe a yr or 2 then take the 1.5 yr Lpn to RN program and be an RN.

So, let's do the math:

1 yr school + 2 years work + 1.5 years school = 4.5 years

How is that faster than just going through the 4-year part time program?

I know at age 21 four years seems like an eternity, but it is not. You can work and go to school part-time, and by age 25 you'll be an RN.

If you want to work in the healthcare field while you're going to school part-time, look into long-term care facilities that will train you to be a CNA while you work. That way, you're gaining skills, making money, and attending classes all at the same time.

Good luck to you!

WDWpixieRN, RN · Nov 18, 2006

semisweet makes a wonderful observation here....I am 50 (will be 51 in December) and just finishing my first semester of an ADN program....I'd love to be 21 and worried about a program taking me 4 years...I know it'll be tough to work and do that part-time, but if your current job pays you more than an LVN position would, I'd seriously consider it....hopefully you've got childcare support from family and friends...maybe you could start part-time and transfer in to a full-time program near the end to complete it a bit sooner?

Either way, you're young...do whatever you have to do to get your RN, but don't worry if it takes you a bit longer than you'd like!

Best wishes!!