I need honest advice about getting into CRNA school

msummar_smc · Apr 28, 2004

I am going to be 22 years old next month. I have been a nurse for 4 years now. 1 year in OB where we have epidurals, do our own C-sections and tubals and recover those patients after anethesia, 2 years ER, 1 and 1/2 year 2 12 hours days per week in a level one CCU. I have ACLS, PALS, and NRP. I am preparing to take my CCRN this summer. My GPA is 3.5 (nursing classes 3.8). I know you are wondering, how is she 22 and a nurse 4 years? I graduated high school (not GED) when I was 16, graduated nursing school when I was 18, the rest is history. I finish my BSN this December and I am taking O-chemistry this fall. I have completed all of while being the mother of 4 boys, two before I ever graduated from high school. Paying for school is not a concern. Does anyone out there with some experience in this think I will get in, what can I do about bettering mu chances?

You don't need my advice ... I need advice from you. You are definitely fast on your way. Study for the GRE and do well on it.

Kiwi, BSN, RN · Apr 28, 2004

I feel lowly now. 4 kids and 4 years of nursing and your only 22. wow. :eek:

If there are any schools in particular you're interested in, go shadow them and speak to an academic advisor. Your stats look good.

UCDSICURN · Apr 28, 2004

Ditto what msummar said. Doing all that with four children, wow! is all I can say. Seriously, my hat is off to ya. The only thing that would concern me, if it even applies, is having support network set up for you and your boys, well in advance so that you'll succeed. Graduate work, especially CRNA school is way more time intensive and demanding than undergraduate work.

If you haven't already, read Craig's (Nilepoc's) blogger. It'll give you a good idea of what to expect. http://www.nilepoc.com

I don't think you'll have any problems getting in. You'll truly stick out in the minds of the interviewers but be prepared to answer the above question regarding how you're going to manage graduate work and family.

Hope this helps...

Donn C.

luster7576 · Apr 28, 2004

Let me add that if I get into either of the schools that I want to get into, We are going to move in with my parents who live 30 minutes from one school and 1 hour from another, we will have no bills to pay there, 3 bedrooms to ourselves and full time childcare for my youngest 2 at my mother's job, the elementary school is walking distance for the older 2, and my mother is crazy about the idea, eager to babysit or do whatever she can to help!

tcrn · Apr 28, 2004

Dang! I wish I was YOU!!! I think that any school would be impressed by your resume'. I however, do not think they will ask or have any business asking about your family situation. It is simply not their concern end of story. It is obvious that you can do it! Think hard, about your kids. Maybe it would be best to wait till they are all in school or what ever mile stone you choose. Good luck!

UCDSICURN · Apr 28, 2004

I didn't mean to sound like they are going to grill you about your family situation. I meant it in the context of her using her situation of overcoming big odds to be a strong performer. If she uses it for her letter for instance, then isn't it fair game? Anyhow it doesn't matter, she has a nice support network and will obviously do fine.

Donn C.

pokey sn · Apr 28, 2004

Luster what wonderful ambition you have! I join the others in saying I'm envious :) You won't have any problems. I think the admissions board will be impressed by your drive and determination not to mention your intelligence. Good luck in all that you do! Let us know how it all turns out.

You GO Girl

tcrn · Apr 28, 2004

I think it is all good... I would just stick to the facts that they are interested in like grades and experience. I think that being the mom of 4 is terrific... I just wonder how a panel would see it with ump-teen other applicatants with great interviews. In my eyes minimal is best... I know of someone who lives to this day wondering if letting out too much about the family kept her out. In this case I do not think anything could keep this girl from getting her goals!~

I didn't mean to sound like they are going to grill you about your family situation. I meant it in the context of her using her situation of overcoming big odds to be a strong performer. If she uses it for her letter for instance, then isn't it fair game? Anyhow it doesn't matter, she has a nice support network and will obviously do fine.
Donn C.

TraumaNurse · Apr 28, 2004

Wow! I'm impressed! I think you will have no problem getting into school and you seem to have the determination and means to do very well! My advice, kick butt on the GRE and have a good interview and your in! Good luck.

By the way, what schools are you applying to?

luster7576 · Apr 28, 2004

Wow! I'm impressed! I think you will have no problem getting into school and you seem to have the determination and means to do very well! My advice, kick butt on the GRE and have a good interview and your in! Good luck.
By the way, what schools are you applying to?

I am planning on applying to University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis Tennessee and Arkansas State University.

vtwincrna · Apr 28, 2004

I have edited this message because it was a personal attack on another user and was offensive.