Is it possible to work while attending RN school?

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I start in a couple of weeks (Bishop State CC) and I am trying to figure out if I should look for a part time job. I am very worried that I will not be able to devote enough time to studying and cant figure out whether to start searching for one or not.

Also, I need tips on what I need to know to start!

My concern right now is that I have a decent job - I make about $17/hr at a law firm. I am TERRIFIED of eventually leaving this job to go to school - I'm sure I can handle pre-reqs and work, but after that is seems like a nightmare, as this is a 9am-6pm office job.

I'm pretty much on my own in this regard - I'm in my late 20's and I don't have parental support or the ability to just not work. How do others in my situation make it through school on only part time wages?

I have an office job with about the same pay and hours. I have a really good relationship with my employer since it is a small family owned company. I worked full time through Pre-reqs, and saved every penny I could. I literally have only bought what I need. They are going to let me work a few hours here and there if I chose when I start my program this fall. Would your employer be open to this? Best thing you can do is save until the program starts. I also looked into scholarships and was awarded a $2500 one for writing an essay. See what financial aid can do for you so that you dont have to spend your savings on tuition.

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Specializes in ER.

I would agree that it really depends on your time management skills. I worked full-time all the way through nursing school. Class days were Monday and Tuesday all day, clinicals Wednesday and Thursday all day, then I worked Fri, Sat, and Sun 12 hour shifts at the hospital that was paying for my school. I was a unit secretary/PCT and made very little ($9/hr) but they paid my tuition and books. For over two years, I never had a day off, but it went by quickly! If I had a choice, I would not have worked, but since I support myself that wasn't an option. :)

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I think it'll be a good idea to work part time as a CNA if you're good with time management and prioritization. It'll be a good opportunity for you to network with people in the hospital and eventually land on a job. I know people at my school use to work or just had their preceptorship at a hospital and landed them a job. It wouldn't hurt to work just to gain that experience. But then again, learning how to balance work and school is the key :)

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