Just starting prereqs, single mom of 1, and I work...A&P I and Psych together??

badgerstudent · Jun 18, 2008

Since you have childcare and work obligations, I strongly advise you to take one class instead of two. Class might be more difficult than you expected and you don't want to get bad grades because there's too much on your plate. I'd suggest doing 1 class at first.

GaMBA · Jun 18, 2008

Thanks for the comment! If I do just one class, which class would you recommend that I take this summer--Psych or A&P I?

badgerstudent · Jun 18, 2008

Hm, it's hard to say. A&P is typically considered one of the more difficult nursing pre-reqs. So it's hard to say which one makes more sense--I'm guessing that the summer A&P is more credits than psych and probably also at a more rapid pace since it's a summer class. However, if you're gonna take 2 classes in fall, now might be a good time to do it. Whichever one you choose, I'd recommend doing A&P 1 and then A&P 2 the semester right after.

Bicster · Jun 18, 2008

I've got a decision to make soon and I would love to hear you all's advice. I'm a single mom of a 13-month old and currently work about 40 hours a week, give or take. I've signed up for 2 summer classes (start in July) at my local community college--A&P I and an online Intro to Psych class. Do you think this is doable? I haven't been to school since 2004 and I've never had to work, be a mom and be a student at the same time. Since the grades from these classes will count towards my "points" when it comes to NS applications I want to make as good of grades as possible. Do you all think I'd be biting off more than I could chew by taking both classes this summer or do you think I should bite the bullet and go for it. I'm very organized and determined and figure I'll do most of my studying/papers, etc at nite after I get my baby to bed (he sleeps all nite ). I know I'll probably be really tired and have absolutely no life for a couple of months, but at least I'd be that much closer to getting my prereqs done. Plus, I figure that in terms of time mgt this will give me an idea of how things will be once I actually start NS (except the work hours will be replaced with school and clinical hrs :-)
Ideally I'd like to apply for NS programs that begin in Fall 2009. By taking 2 prereqs per qtr/semester, I might possibly be able to accomplish this goal. However, I wouldn't be heartbroken if I had to wait another year (due to the prereqs taking longer). Any and all advice is appreciated!!
TIA

Why not go for it? There is nothing wrong with "being tired and having no life for a couple months." If its worth it to you, you'll make it work.

2bManNurse1017 · Jun 18, 2008

A&P I is generally a difficult class, but intro to psych is pretty much just the history of Psychology so all it is is memorizing dates and such. You can do iT. i do not have ne kids but last year i took all my pre reqs over 2 semesters and worked 60-65 hours a week! its hard but it will be worth it. all the luck two you

obicurn · Jun 18, 2008

I think it is very doable. The only thing to consider is whether or not summer semesters at your school are condensed. At my school, summer semester is only 10 weeks long so you're learning 16 weeks worth of material in a shorter time frame. I would give your sciences the full 16 weeks and take the "easier" classes like Psych during the summer. If you have an English requirement, that would be a good class to take with Psych. Anatomy 1 and 2 really are best to take over a regular semester. Still, if you don't have another option, and are organized and can manage your time well, I see no reason why you can't take them both over the summer. I have somehow managed A's in all my prereqs while raising 4 kids alone. Trust me, it's possible if you want it bad enough.

GaMBA · Jun 18, 2008

It is a condensed semester. It starts July 1 and ends the first week of Sept.

obicurn · Jun 18, 2008

If you have the option, I would hold off on the ANP and take two typically easier classes over the summer.

GaMBA · Jun 18, 2008

I just went and got my books for both courses. I have until 2 weeks after classes start to return them for a full refund. MY GOODNESS! These books cost me $345. And that was used! At that price, if I do take both classes I better make good grades.

After reading all the comments and suffering from the sticker shock of these books, I'm seriously thinking about just taking the online Psych course this summer and starting the hardcore science classes in the fall. Also, I went to the Fin Aid office today to ask about a grant I'm using to pay for these classes and the lady said the grant can be used to pay for up to 95 hours at the cc I'm going to, as long as it's for an associates degree or diploma. If that's the case, I'm seriously thinking about perhaps going for the school's LPN program or the ADN program they plan to start next year. That would be a huge cost savings for me over a BSN.

carlson.corinne · Jun 19, 2008

Thanks for the comment! If I do just one class, which class would you recommend that I take this summer--Psych or A&P I?

If you are just getting started in your prereqs I would take psych first. It is an easier class (especialy online) It may give you a chance to get in the swing of things and see how much time you really have. A&P is a very challenging and time consuming course. If you haven't taken cell biology or a chemistry class you may thing of doing those first. It may give you a jump start on the learning for A&P. Many colleges have prereqs for A&P or an advisor may tell you if taking some first could help.

Good Luck!