Hybrid ADN or LPN?

londonflo · Mar 30, 2021

On 3/28/2021 at 3:24 PM, weis53 said:

I’m looking for a Hybrid ADN or LPN class

It is hard to jump into a nursing program, solely because your previous job has changed. Start with the courses needed to move into the nursing courses, like anatomy/physiology Microbiology etc. Completing these courses at a community college or state school is the best. You want to make sure they transfer. These courses will be needed with what ever program you want to go to.

We have had coal mining jobs shut down in my area and those who wanted retraining wanted it 'this very minute'. Explore ALL the programs at your community college -- there are a lot of occupations that can be achieved in a year or two.

I wonder if you got into coal mining right after graduating from high school? Well, now you are going to need to spend some academic time to build your science foundation that you didn't do before. Please don't think I am criticizing or being negative. The fact of the matter is all worthwhile occupations require education.

weis53 · Mar 30, 2021

I can get into a LPN program at the local school, but it’s hard to do it and still provide especially if I have to take a job in the mines again, and you’re correct I went straight into the mines after I graduated. I had a scholarship to play football and planned on studying biology and later becoming a PA when I was in high school, but I decided I didn’t wanna be away from my now wife that long. I’ve been out of school for almost three years now, and I’ve done almost everything there is to offer for a boy my age around here, underground mining, surface mining, hauling coal, logging. I seem to do a lot better with my anxiety when I’m challenging my mind daily though and that’s why I want a change of pace now.

londonflo · Mar 30, 2021

On 3/28/2021 at 3:24 PM, weis53 said:

UMWA is offering me a grant for retraining.

Investigate it and take it while they are offering it! Are you eligible for Unemployment? Because of covid, there are unemployment funds available if you were laid off due to covid. Please go to your community college and discuss options. You do not have to have a specific course of study in mind, rather keep an open mind. You may want to become an EMT and then move into a nursing program. Sounds like you like biology and that is inherent in every health care program. May I add a caution? This may not be true for every area but we have many students going into Criminal Studies but a professor from that department told me few get a job.

You may want to talk to one of your hospital recruiters. Do they pay tuition if you work there in exchange for a commitment for work?

Are there anyother grants available? Please be aware that a quick "for profit" program will leave you in deep debt.

The state I am in provides funds for work force retraining. You may find information at your unemployment office when they open up.

I can only imagine what a stress of loss of job and having an impending delivery are for you and your partner. . Talk to every program in your state, stress you are wanting to gain a health care education, and your knowledge in biology is strong. We have had coal miners come through our program and they always do well and after a year or two as a staff nurse, move into management.

The elephant in the room is if your wife can work 6 weeks after her delivery. Not the best but you two (soon to be 3) have to struggle through this for you to get a professional education. I have taught nursing education for over 40 years. It is tough on families.....but I have never seen family members prouder than when their family member walks across the stage on the day of graduation.

PS Community colleges also offer non health care programs that provide a good career. If you see an open house at your community college advertised, attend to find out about the programs they offer but are not common knowledge (in my CC we have airplane maintenance -- and 100% employment after graduation)

I admire your problem skills in looking for other employment (we need problem solvers in health care) . These are a real asset in you. Best wishes for the best outcome