I have 13 withdrawals

[Sommer Hope]

Hello, I'm a 25(f) who is about to graduate with a bachelor's degree in an unrelated major. I'm thinking about taking the prerequisites for nursing school starting in the Spring at the local community college I got an AAS from for something different. Before that, I attended a different 4-year institution, where I completed one semester but completely withdrew from the next 2 consecutive semesters because I ended up in the ER. That already accounts for 6 or 7 withdrawals. Then I decided to go to the community college where I withdrew 4 different classes due to mental health issues. After transferring to the other 4-year institution where I'll be getting my degree from, I have only withdrawn 2 other classes due to taking too many at a time. Most of the withdrawals are from at least 5 years ago, and I have sense then sorted myself more. The cc I plan on going back to said that the withdrawals should not matter and that only prerequisite classes and TEAS will be considered, but I also plan on applying other places too (mostly to other community colleges that use the points system). I was wondering if anyone has ever had withdrawals effect their chances at getting into nursing school. I would like to apply but want to be realistic about my chances. Thank you!

[RNelmo]

I was kicked out of two different universities for poor grades prior to finishing a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field and then going to nursing school (I graduated from nursing school in May of this year). I was going through a lot at the time personally, it was a really low point in my life and it was a cause of great shame for years. When it comes to nursing school, It doesn't always matter what your previous transcripts look like, sometimes it depends on the school. In my case, I used the experience to discuss what I had learned about myself in the process, and how I had changed. If you are given this opportunity, either in a personal statement and/or an interview, use it. Apply to different schools and see what happens. Good luck to you!

[taty]

My recommendation for you is to remember that nursing in US is very stressful and liability is high. Everything that you will do in your nursing career should be done like from attorney's perspective. If I could turn my time back, I would become a physical therapist instead. Less liability, plenty of work flexibility, opportunities, better pay, and you still helping people. Stress is only  healthy/ stimulating in small amount. It helps you grow. Too much of it, affects your mental and physical health. It causes burnout and job dissatisfaction. Good luck in what you decide!

[Hannahbanana, BSN, MSN]

If you find yourself in a much better place and can take on a stressful college nursing curriculum with equanimity, make an appointment with the admissions counselor(s) at your target school(s) and explain yourself. DON'T make excuses, don't lay blame; your goal is to demonstrate maturity and readiness for the responsibility. 
Good luck!

[Hello World]

Thanks for sharing this — I really appreciate how open and honest you were about all your withdrawals. It's encouraging to read that even with many past setbacks you're still considering nursing school, and that some of the withdrawals came from yesterday's stress while others are much older. I think what you wrote will help others in the same boat feel less alone. If I were you I'd reach out to the admissions counselors like you plan to — maturity and self-awareness go a long way. Good luck with everything 🙏