Moving for Nursing School

Many, many students move away for college, so you're not alone. If you're going to an area where you don't already have family/friends, make a point to seek out classmates to build a support system in your new location. In an accelerated program, you're likely to find many students of similar ages also with experience and degrees in other fields. Make friends, work hard, and have some fun exploring a new place. Broadening your horizons is always a good thing.

Before you make the move, talk with some financial aid officers at each school to see how you are going to pay for it. ABSN programs are very expensive and with you already having a previous degree, you may not be eligible for any additional aid. Figure out the financial logistics before anything else.

I would consider an Associate's degree program. As a second degree student myself, I used up most of my financial aid, so an ASN was the only way I could go for a nursing degree without going for private loans. I hear Texas is a great place to be a nurse, and unless you have family where you'll be moving, I would reconsider. If you have a supportive family, that can be really hard to replace.

Thank You all for your advice and other options to consider!

I moved halfway across the country for my BSN. The more flexible you are the more options you have. Pretty simple. If you are able to attend 30 schools as opposed to 2 you open up many doors. This is the same when applying for jobs. Many people say they "can't get a nursing job" when they will only work in the ER...day shifts..at hospital X. As a new grad being flexible will get you in and get you your experience...then the doors open. Nursing is a process and if you work with it..it will work with you.

I actually moved from California to South Central Texas to go to nursing school. It was very competitive back home so I needed to keep my options open. Keep an open mind and apply to different programs across the country. You will learn tremendously. Good luck.