Lvn entrance Interview

LuckyCharmLVN · Oct 24, 2014

Hi, tasha92337, first and foremost, good luck! Be prepared to sell yourself, your determination to complete the program, your interest in nursing and how it came about. Try writing out a draft for you only, answering questions that you think may be asked in the interview, so that way its fresh in your mind and documented. I was asked where I grew up, what my educational background was, could I commit to a 12 month program without anything preventing me from finishing, would I be working during school, full time or part time. They also shared their opinions on working while in the program (0hrs lol), which at first was intimidating, but I found a way to make my schedule work with my job anyway. I also had to write a 500 word essay: "who/what influenced you to be interested in nursing?" For my interview attire I wore a business casual Kardashian collection black suit jacket, with earth toned slacks and top. Finished off with some comfortable but professional slip on hushpuppies, light on the jewelry and daytime makeup. Carried my paperwork in a binder ready to go with any questions I had, makes you look organized and prepared! I believe what helped me get in and stand out from the crowd was:

My enthusiasm for learning

My passion for helping others

My background as a Caregiver in home care (4yrs) Assisted Living (2yrs)

CNA Certificate

OVERALL HESI Score 89% (avg was 75%)

3 excellent Reference Letters(School and Business)

Fast, punctual responses to any correspondence with the school or my Advisor regarding admittance, showing great interest/excitement the program

Natasha A., CNA, LVN · Oct 24, 2014

Hi luckycharSVN,

Thank you for sharing your lvn interview experience. When you were asked would you be working during school, what did you say? I've read several posts about most lvn programs suggest you do not work during the course since its very intense. Can you also please elaborate when you say you had showed enthusiasm for learning? Did you share a story about your medical experience or personal interests? Plus, when you talked about showing your passion for helping others, did you share an experience with a patient working as a cna? What 3 people did you get a reference letter from? Did they also ask about your weakness/strengths or why did you pick this school or if you had a conflict with anyone, what did you do?I really do appreciate you taking the time out of your day to help little ol me. :) Last, after the interview did you send a handwritten thank you letter?

LuckyCharmLVN · Oct 24, 2014

Hi luckycharSVN,
Thank you for sharing your lvn interview experience. When you were asked would you be working during school, what did you say? I've read several posts about most lvn programs suggest you do not work during the course since its very intense. Can you also please elaborate when you say you had showed enthusiasm for learning? Did you share a story about your medical experience or personal interests? Plus, when you talked about showing your passion for helping others, did you share an experience with a patient working as a cna? What 3 people did you get a reference letter from? Did they also ask about your weakness/strengths or why did you pick this school or if you had a conflict with anyone, what did you do?I really do appreciate you taking the time out of your day to help little ol me. :) Last, after the interview did you send a handwritten thank you letter?

Your welcome! What I mean by expressing enthusiasm is: Telling the interviewer what your dreams and aspirations are, career wise. That'll help them get an idea of your seriousness, goals and realistic views on nursing as a profession. I was asked why I didnt try for a RN program. I told my interviewer I had, that after waiting on a CA cc list for 2 yrs, I felt I was going nowhere, so I decided that taking steps (now CNA, next LVN, THEN RN-BSN) to achieve a goal will prepare me better than going straight into the fire, per say. It worked for me, and it was the truth! My essay I wrote played a big part in representing my interest. I told about how I loved playing dr when I was little. I put bandages on my family, took temps,the whole nine.

I told the story of my mother, who has always struggled with her health for all my life, and how I enjoy nursing her and being her caregiver/companion and daughter as well. My bestie Is a NP, she referred me to begin nursing & I never looked back. All these things counted to me: completing my financial aid requirements, titers completed swiftly, having patience, compassion and a can do attitude. Im sure you do too My three references were: my arabic instructor, my CNA Intructor who is an NP and my BESTIE, who is an NP. Usually, I only send thank you notes after interviews for jobs. They asked why I chose xyz college. I told them that the atmosphere, smaller class sizes, accelerated program, me being an alumni fron there previously also played a role in my choice. When they told me they didnt recommend any work during the program,I freaked. I have bills to pay! So, I spoke with the Nursing Program Director, he specified no more than 20hrs. So I made sure my job would accommodate me, and as on Nov 3rd, I will work Wednesdays&Fridays 5-10pm Saturday&Sundays 6:30am-2:30pm

Thats alot of time left in my opinion for tutoring, homework, studying. So its a personal choice, honestly do what FEELS right and is doable for you. I work well understress, some dont. If you need anything else, lemme no! :)

Natasha A., CNA, LVN · Oct 24, 2014

LuckycharmSVN

Thank you so much!!!! You have painted a great picture for me on what to expect for the interview. This weekend I will be working on preparing answers for the common interview questions. You have been great help and I will keep you posted. :-)

LuckyCharmLVN · Oct 25, 2014

LuckycharmSVN
Thank you so much!!!! You have painted a great picture for me on what to expect for the interview. This weekend I will be working on preparing answers for the common interview questions. You have been great help and I will keep you posted. :-)

Your welcome, tasha92337! I wish the best of luck on your journey to becoming a Nurse. Im right along side of you, actually. Prepping Questions sounds like a smart idea, ur on ur way. Yes, do keep me posted :)

-LuckycharmSVN

Jen_Loves_Nursing · Oct 25, 2014

Hi Tasha! I am currently in the VN pool interview process as well!!!!

Jen_Loves_Nursing · Oct 25, 2014

Also, in student services today the lady told me they love seeing portfolios so I am going to put one together!

Jen_Loves_Nursing · Oct 25, 2014

Tasha,

I saw you are from Inland Empire... me too! I live in Yucaipa, are you trying for the CRY ROP program???

Natasha A., CNA, LVN · Oct 25, 2014

Your welcome, tasha92337! I wish the best of luck on your journey to becoming a Nurse. Im right along side of you, actually. Prepping Questions sounds like a smart idea, ur on ur way. Yes, do keep me posted :) -LuckycharmSVN

Thank you. Yes, preparration is key! I'm going in at all angles for this interview. Lol :-)

Natasha A., CNA, LVN · Oct 25, 2014

Hi Tasha! I am currently in the VN pool interview process as well!!!!

Omg really how's it going so far?

We have already taken two test and have one more this Tuesday. We already did our self intro orientation but don't know what score we received so this pre vn class is keeping me on the edge of feet. Lol

I just want to nail this interview!!!

How many are in your class and how many available seats? We have 40 students and only 15 available seats with one available alternate.

What kind of portfolio? Like a *brag* book.

Jen_Loves_Nursing · Oct 26, 2014

Omg really how's it going so far?
We have already taken two test and have one more this Tuesday. We already did our self intro orientation but don't know what score we received so this pre vn class is keeping me on the edge of feet. Lol
I just want to nail this interview!!!
How many are in your class and how many available seats? We have 40 students and only 15 available seats with one available alternate. No I'm going to el monte adult school. Yucaipa is quite some miles away. But el monte to inland empire is almost 40 minutes.
What kind of portfolio? Like a *brag* book.

I would imagine"brag book" is a good synonym! so far 8 applicant (with a mont left before deadline) and they accept 25-30.... usually one alternate if a seat is available within the first week! good luck!