Is my instructor right or wrong?

Specialties NP

Published

Hello all,

I'm in my first semester in a BSN program. So far, I have gotten As and Bs on the tests. When I received my lowest grade, an 80, my instructor told me if I continue with these grades I will neer become an APRN. This was discouraging to say the least! Is it possible to become an NP if I keep getting Bs?

Thanks,

Josh

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Specializes in ACNP-BC, Adult Critical Care, Cardiology.
Hello all,

I'm in my first semester in a BSN program. So far, I have gotten As and Bs on the tests. When I received my lowest grade, an 80, my instructor told me if I continue with these grades I will neer become an APRN. This was discouraging to say the least! Is it possible to become an NP if I keep getting Bs?

Thanks,

Josh

In terms of grades, graduate school programs typically look at your over-all undergraduate GPA. In most cases a GPA of 3.0-3.2 is acceptable. However, there are programs that tend to be competitive and have limited slots for students. In these institutions, students with high GPA's have a better chance of acceptance than those who have average GPA's. There are also programs I know of (mostly CRNA) that look at your science GPA's as well to determine if you're a good fit for their program. If your goal is to pursue graduate studies, it is always good to maintain high grades but in most cases, the GPA is not the only determinant of whether you get accepted or not.

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Specializes in Critical Care, Orthopedics, Hospitalists.

:yeahthat:

Don't let your instructor keep you from reaching your goals - anything is possible! Keep working towards maintaining A's and B's, you'll be okay. :)

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It's probably not so bleak. First off, your overall GPA could easily come up in the next couple of semesters. The first semester can be particulary difficult to get high grades in because the manner of studying and testing is incredibly different than most other classes you've taken to this point.

Next, in the big picture, having knowledge, experience and confidence ranks higher than GPA. Grades do not necessarily reflect one's potential in clinical practice. Great grades may make it easier to be accepted to an NP program, but having built a strong foundation in nursing school both in clinical practice and knowledge will make it easier to become the best nurse you can be.

Fortunately, chances are that you WILL be able to pursue your dream of becoming an NP. But if for some reason you can't seem to get in anywhere, then you can use all the experience and education that you've racked up to find a place for yourself that fills your overall desires of what a good career and life are.

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I agree...it's a big picture....My school was very competitive--but I had a 3.3 and still got in.... Now that I am in my last year of FNP school---grades are so different...Where I use to worry about A's...you just pray for B's at this level...You will do great!! Keep plugging along...

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Specializes in Emergency, MCCU, Surgical/ENT, Hep Trans.

Your fine, quit worrying, don't let anyone tell you...you'll never get to be anything. I sucked my first year in my BSN program, and it shows, wondered if I'd made the right decision. I then jumped into an extern program at a University Hospital, loved it, and never looked back.

Now, I waited nearly 15 years to go back, but the experience and motivation from that summer "sealed the deal" that I was made to be a nurse. Now, I'm a NP and love every minute of it.

I'm living proof that you can barely make it out of a BSN (3.0) and still attend an IVY league graduate program, passing two national certification boards. Years do wonders for a boy NP! Good luck man! :specs:

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Specializes in allergy and asthma, urgent care.

Josh,

Don't let that instructor dissuade you from your dream. I had a not very stellar undergrad GPA (non-nursing), but after some years out in the world I had great work experiences and an incredibly strong desire to become an NP. I was able to convey this in my NP school applications, I had great recommendations, and I was accepted to every direct entry NP program I applied to. So it's not all about the grades-they are only part of who you are. NP school may not happen immediately after your BSN, but that's ok. You can gather some work experience, and demonstrate through real experience that you are exactly who they want in an NP program.

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Specializes in ER; CCT.
Hello all,

I'm in my first semester in a BSN program. So far, I have gotten As and Bs on the tests. When I received my lowest grade, an 80, my instructor told me if I continue with these grades I will neer become an APRN. This was discouraging to say the least! Is it possible to become an NP if I keep getting Bs?

Thanks,

Josh

In the context of your question, the instructor is always right, just like when they say the earth is flat. Secondly, and under your breath, tell your instructor to go blow it out his or her rectum. A perfect example of those who can't do afforded an opportunity to teach through the discouragement model versus inspiration and motivation.

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