Just accepted

w292737 · Apr 24, 2014

First, congrats!!!

Second, check your local/state requirements, typically this will not be a hindrance to be able to pass a background check.

meib92 · Apr 24, 2014

Congratulations on your acceptance!

It will definitely show up on your background check, but don't lose hope. Only the people who make admission decisions at that program are able to say whether you will be denied a spot in the program or not. I would recommend making an anonymous call, or e-mail account, inquiring about your DUI charge, and whether it will count against you entering nursing school. (You can even say you're interested in nursing, and plan to apply, not that you've been accepted, to keep more anonymity). If it is a problem, write the nursing department a letter of explanation of how you've learned from your mistake, send them reference letters form past professors or employers, whatever you can to prove to them you'll be great in their program!

But even if you get admitted after your background check, you will also face trouble come time to take the NCLEX. The BON may decide they don't want to license you, but of course they take applications for licensure on a case-by-case situation. My best advice, if you get into the nursing program after your background check, is to work your hardest during clinicals and make great impressions on all your professors, as they will be the ones writing the BON reference letters for you when the BON wants more info regarding your DUI. There are plenty of cases of students successfully completing nursing school and getting their RN license with a DUI (and -gulp-, even worse charges). There is a way around it.

I know it's a hard pill to swallow, but don't give up hope now. Just know that you were sent to this path of becoming a nurse for a reason, and there isn't any hurdle you can't overcome. We ALL make mistakes and learn from them, it's a part of what makes us human.

I wish you the best of luck!

RunBabyRN · Apr 24, 2014

Check out the BRN's website to make sure you can be licensed in CA. That may be in the FAQs. From there, the school may or may not accept you with that, even if the BRN says it's okay. They all do background checks, and everything has to be cleared before you start.

SopranoKris, MSN, RN, NP · Apr 24, 2014

It completely depends on your program's admissions policy. Some only take felonies into consideration, not misdemeanors. So, check with them ASAP.

Also, check your state BON to see what types of convictions will prevent you from getting your license.

How long ago was the DUI? That might make a difference as well. If it was a long time ago, you might have a better chance. A recent one is going to be more difficult to explain.

Sparkles4 · Apr 25, 2014

It was a little less than a year ago. It is the only trouble I have ever been in and I have more than learned my lesson. The program director states that it is really up to the facilities that they partner with for clinical semesters. I am trying hard not to stress about it, but this is my life long dream and I am worried this will prevent me from moving forward.

meib92 · Apr 25, 2014

It was a little less than a year ago. It is the only trouble I have ever been in and I have more than learned my lesson. The program director states that it is really up to the facilities that they partner with for clinical semesters. I am trying hard not to stress about it, but this is my life long dream and I am worried this will prevent me from moving forward.

Due to the recency of the charge, there is a huge chance the clinical sites will not allow you to participate in clinicals. I don't know for sure though. Some clinical sites may allow you to participate, others may not take kindly to DUIs, especially one that is so recent. But keep in mind that even if you are allowed in clinicals, you will face a lot of trouble seeking employment in the future. If your DUI prevents you from entering nursing school, you can always pursue another path in a health-related field. It never hurts to have a backup plan. I wish you the best!

Sparkles4 · Apr 25, 2014

According to the program director I will have a chance to explain my situation before a final decision is made. I guess all I can do is hope for the best at this point. I was just hoping someone out there that had experienced something similar could shed a little hope.

meib92 · Apr 25, 2014

That's great news that you have a chance to explain yourself. Maybe posting in the Nursing Licensure with a Criminal History forum (Found in the "Careers" Tab) you will find someone with a similar situation that has some advice. Or, flip through the posts in there, and I'm sure you can find some success stories and posts from others who have been in your shoes.