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So I have decided to pursue a career in nursing!!. I'm 22 and I know what I want to do..finally:) I'm curious on how to proceed with the first steps (education). My initial thought would be to go after a (LVN) then work my way up to an ADN and BSN. I was hoping that after I earn my (LVN), that I would then pay my way through the ADN program while also gaining the experience I need for my goal as an official RN (Lots of RN jobs require previous experience:( But I wonder would it be better and cheaper than to just purse an ADN program than the LVN?(Two tuitions for two different programs) They say you take baby steps for your career, but then again one little step can make you fall BIG time. For all the experienced and educated nurses out there (LVN,ADN,BSN,MSN) which one should I pursue first? I am so ready but I need to know which path to take. Please help with any details;)

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Specializes in M/S, LTC, Corrections, PDN & drug rehab.

If you don't have any kids & can start on your pre-reqs now, I would. Then I would start applying to RN programs. But if you need a source of income then apply to LVN programs.

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Emergency, Trauma.
If you don't have any kids & can start on your pre-reqs now, I would. Then I would start applying to RN programs. But if you need a source of income then apply to LVN programs.

This.

Also, you can take your pre-req's at a community college and save on money so if you need to, you can start in an ADN program or go into a BSN program-in an entry level sense, the programs are very similar; depending on your area it if you desire working in the military, your best bets is to look into BSN programs-there is more flexible opportunities and if you desire a MSN in the future, you already be BSN-prepared.

Research your area as well as any other areas that you are interested in working in, then make a decision.

Best wishes.

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Thanks, but how long are pre-reqs?, I know it depends on how many classes are required for different nursing programs. :bookworm: But whats the average time frame?

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Emergency, Trauma.

It depends; it depends on timing-meaning if the class is open; and how many pre req's you need; most pre-req's are similar; with a class or two more or less.

Some take a year, some take two, it depends.

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Oncology.

This definitely depends on the kind of financial need you have. Personally, I am mostly financially independent but live with my boyfriend who takes care of a lot of our monetary needs. I still provide by working in the ED as a medical scribe but I'm also going to be (hopefully) attending my ADN program in the fall. If you live with someone who can take some of the financial burden then I would consider going for ADN or BSN right away.

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