How important is it work while in school?

[LPNtoRNin2016OH, LPN]

Hi friends,

Interested in getting opinions from fellow LPN to RN bridge students about how you feel NOT working during your LPN to RN bridge program will effect your hiring chances after graduation?

I started my pre-reqs part time 2 years ago. I worked full time during the day and went to school 4 evenings/week. I did this for 1.5 years until I gave birth to our third child (the day after finals lol) last winter. I have stayed enrolled in school the whole time with a 4.0 GPA but last April resigned from my full time position (small clinic - no PT or PRN option) because I felt very overwhelmed with a 6 yo, 3 yo, and newborn, I been off since then. School is starting back up in a few weeks, my last semester or pre reqs before I apply to my program (So on target to graduate Spring 2017) and I am wondering if I should go for a PRN position at a nursing home because I will not be working for at least 2 years by the time I go apply for RN jobs.

I have gotten mixed opinions: Those who say it doesn't matter, people won't care that you haven't worked in two years, just that you worked for 5 years as an LPN before that and I have had people tell me it is very, very important to stay employed, even PRN, because it will hurt your chances, people will feel your out of practice....

thoughts/opinions/experiences? I am very conflicted! I guess I should add, financially I do not have to work at the time if I decide not to, my husband is able to support us with his income.

[NurseEmmy]

If I didn't have to work I wouldn't. It wouldn't hurt to stay PRN (who couldn't use a few extra bucks now and again), but I don't think it will hurt you in the long run. Now this being said having a job somewhere might be the foot in the door to a job once you graduate and pass the NCLEX. Most employers don't consider LPN experience to count for RN experience so you'll be considered a newbie regardless. Do what works best for you.