Is it possible to work during an ABSN program?

[INN_777, BSN, RN]

Hi all:

This question is for those of you who went through or are going through an accelerated BSN program. Is it possible to work part-time?

The program I have been accepted to is 12 months. Our schools said that it is preferable not to work or work only one day a week. I would like to work one day a week (or 10 hours) to supplement income, but not sure if that would even be possible or whether I will be jeopardizing my studies.

Any thoughts or experiences with that greatly appreciated.

[Griffin123]

I would say no. Just because something can be done doesn't mean it SHOULD be done. At the very least I would not work in the first semester. This way you can get a feel for what will be required of you. If you think you can handle more work after the first semester, knock yourself out.

[nurseprnRN, BSN, RN]

Agree. We see a lot of people here who are just drowning in their accelerated programs. If the program advises you not to work, what experiences do you think have led them to say so? Pay attention.

[llerou1]

Im actually doing really well in my accelerated program, also 12 months ends in may... AND I have a 1.5 year old boy lol I'm considering an ER tech position because I personally feel like I could handle 1-2 extra shifts a week and the job outlook is getting scarier and scarier so its really a matter of what you think YOU are capable of..

I know for me, worst case scenario I'd drop down to B's with the extra workload which I'd be ok with esp for the benefit of a job lined up when I do graduate!

[NICU Guy, BSN, RN]

I am 6 months into a 15 month ABSN program. I work Friday and Saturday nights (630pm-630am). Not the most ideal situation, but it pays the bills and I was on the dean's list last semester. I am single with no kids, so that is to my advantage. It is doable, but you really need to be organized to make sure you can fit in study time, write papers and care plan into your schedule.

[INN_777, BSN, RN]

Well, since they (school) kept saying that you could work 1 day/week, I was thinking of doing a consulting gig for 10 hrs/week in my current line of work (I have a family and, although my son is 18, family responsibilities do take some time). But now, reading about the intensity of programs and the current job market, I am thinking of maybe not working for the first semester, getting a feel for the workload, then getting a job as a CNA or technician after my first clinical rotation is done...

[seconddegreebsn]

I'm ABSN as well. There are definitely weeks where I regret that I don't have a job, and there are weeks where I can barely get through everything and am barely keeping up. Per diem might be a good option, or babysitting - something with a lot of flexibility! Give it a semester and see how you feel and how you do academically - I wouldn't do it at the risk of affecting my grades.

[kristen1219]

I am an ABSN student. Our program is 4 semesters and I'm in my third. I have a son that was 12 months when I started and my husband is a 2nd yr med student. I am doing very well in school and volunteer a few hrs a week, so without kids I think it would definitely be possible to work...at least in a 16 month program.

[INN_777, BSN, RN]

Thank you all for sharing your thoughts. It seems like the optimal thing to do is to go through the first semester and then take it from there. I will have to noodle on that some more.