had my interview at nursing college.......

[toadflax]

Hi Guys!

I was the poster who asked the question about tall nurses. I was made to feel very welcome at this site and to keep everyone up to date on my progress.

Well, I've had my interview at nursing college here in Scotland yesterday. Went very well, I felt. I am still very keen.

My age (36) seemed to be a very positive thing with them. They said they rarely get 17 year old school leavers which was the norm years and years ago.

They emphasised the placements and the fact that there is a compulsory distance placement which could last up to 15 weeks where I'd have to live away from home (and pay my own expenses). None of this was a problem for me - it's just me and hubby anyway and I love adventures. However, I think for those with families this is a tough nut to crack. I have a younger friend nearly through her course and she couldn't have managed without her mum helping out with babysitting, etc.

Anywaaaaaaaaaay, I won't get the result until May/June. Aargh.... patience!

In the meantime, I was at an interview today for a Nurse Auxiliary at the local (tiny) hospital here. Will hear result later today. The good news is even if I don't get the job, I can join their "bank" and work shifts as a nurse aux to gain experience. This could also become my part-time job if I get on the course this year. So it's all good!

QUESTION: I have elected to do Learning Disability Nursing. We have to choose our specialty going in which i think is a bit strange. I was told that out of 120 students only 11 wanted to do LDN and last year that figure was only 3. Why is it poorly subscribed? Is it because you are more likely to work out in the community and most would-be nurses want to be in a hospital setting and in the more "exciting" wards?

I think the fact that I've obviously chosen a less popular specialty will increase my chances of a place.

Thanks again for all your good wishes! :)

[Nesher, BSN, RN]

Glad your interview went well!

I'm afraid I am not familar with the category you have selected to focus on - I do think it seems difficult to know what you want to do before you start though!

I would never have picked oncology when I was just starting school...never. At the time I thought I wanted to pursue emergency nursing. At any rate it does seem to bode well for finding a position after your graduate by choosing an area that isn't popular. I hope it is something you will enjoy?

[toadflax]

Thanks for your reply!

I think in the US it would be called Disability Nursing? It would be nursing people (mainly out in the community) who have anything such as Autism, Down's, etc. We called it Learning Disabilities in UK.

Thanks for your good wishes. Fingers crossed, eh?!

[SusanJean]

I'm glad you decided to pursue your dream! And also glad to hear the interview went well.

Since you have to declare your area of interest before you start, can you change once you are accepted? What does that mean to your ability to practice in other areas?

SJ