I just sent my application for MSU today and wanted to see if anyone out there has already applied or plan on applying. It would be nice to hear about other applicants and anyone else who may already be in the program(advice, words of encouragement, etc.). I think I have a solid chance but my nursing pre-req GPA is in the low 3.0's so I am not so sure. I wrote an outstanding essay and have 16 years of work experience. I also volunteer at a hospital so hopefully they will consider this.
I just hope MSU looks at more than just grades but I realize grades are always key. I worked my way through school and graduated with a hard major(Chemistry). I am finding that they do not give much consideration to whether or not you took hard classes. This past term I got a 3.6 after being away from school for a long time. I passed A & P too on the first try so that was cool. My prof seemed annoyed that I did so well since its been so long since I had Basic Biology. LOL. Anyhow, just wanted to send my well wishes to anyone applying to MSU or any other program. I'm also applying to U of M, Wayne and Oakland. I am finding out first hand just how hard it is to get into a program. If anyone needs advice, let me know. I am very familiar with many of the programs but could always use some more advice!! :)
I think they do put a lot of weight on the essay. It sounds like you have a similar GPA to what got me in, but I know people who got in with MUCH higher. I think there is a huge emphasis on previous healthcare experience as well. Both my references were from people in heathcare and I had multiple years of work and volunteer experience. I think it depends where you took your classes as well. Honestly I could be way off because they never tell you what they look at the most. I know that there is a board that does the admissions. If you could somehow find someone on that board and speak with them perhaps they will have an answer or remember the effort you put in when your name comes up. I am not sure who is on it, otherwise I would give you a name.
As for the clinicals, you would most likely be able to get a lot of them close to home. They are not flexible once you are placed but they do let you rate your choices. But I know for one semester Ingham or Sparrow were the only choices. My guess is that for the most part you would be close to home, especially when your baby comes! They do have a spot to put down any special considerations and when you're dealing with women (not to sound sexest) I would imagine a baby would be considered a high priority!
:tku: for everything. I'll keep you posted. I now regret sending my app so early(advising made it sound like a good idea to apply now). :thnkg: But its not like I would have changed anything on my essay but I may be getting my CNA this month and hopefully will work a few days in a hospital or nursing home. I put that I was planning on getting my CNA in my essay but had I waited, I could actually say I have it. Oh well. If they want me, great. If not, then I move on to other schools. Thanks again and I'll let you know. Probably won't hear until 2010. Long wait...
I was wondering if you could tell me how long it took to receive a decision from Michigan State? They changed the application to December 15 from October 15. I sent mine in a long time ago before I knew of the change. I know they will not review my application until this month but does it take a long time?? I just completed 3 pre-reqs and got all A's/ I hope this is enough to push me over the top. I only have stats to complete in the winter and then I wait. I know you mentioned they take people off the wait list. Also, do you think I should include my certification as a CNA?? I am taking it through Red Cross in January. I know some schools (like Wayne State) won't even consider(or look at) extra stuff like that but I am hoping this may set me apart in case I am borderline with someone else. Thanks and hope all is well with your nursing. Thanks for your time.
I got a letter over thanksgiving but that would have had to been a different deadline. I know MSU looks at the "extra stuff" so putting you worked as a CNA is a great thing to do. It sounds like you will do fine with those grades!. Good Luck!
roma4204, BSN, RN
210 Posts
I think they do put a lot of weight on the essay. It sounds like you have a similar GPA to what got me in, but I know people who got in with MUCH higher. I think there is a huge emphasis on previous healthcare experience as well. Both my references were from people in heathcare and I had multiple years of work and volunteer experience. I think it depends where you took your classes as well. Honestly I could be way off because they never tell you what they look at the most. I know that there is a board that does the admissions. If you could somehow find someone on that board and speak with them perhaps they will have an answer or remember the effort you put in when your name comes up. I am not sure who is on it, otherwise I would give you a name.
As for the clinicals, you would most likely be able to get a lot of them close to home. They are not flexible once you are placed but they do let you rate your choices. But I know for one semester Ingham or Sparrow were the only choices. My guess is that for the most part you would be close to home, especially when your baby comes! They do have a spot to put down any special considerations and when you're dealing with women (not to sound sexest) I would imagine a baby would be considered a high priority!
Good Luck! keep me updated!