My dream to become a nurse practitioner....

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Hi,

I would appreciate some advice,suggestions and encouragement as I try to achieve my goal.I just finished my first semester of nursing school and my goal is to become a nurse practitioner in the shortest possible time. I know it is a lot of work that's why I am seeking input on how to make it a reality.

I am a single mom, son is 4 and my baby will be 1 next month. Hopefully,I should graduate by December 2011 and take the Nclex. My 4 year plan is to apply to University of Alabama,Birmingham RN to MSN program. So I am hoping to start my BSN by summer 2012 and finish by fall (they said two semesters) fulltime or at worse spring 2013. The plan is to start my MSN immediately and be done latest by fall 2014 (4 semesters for FNP).

I also intend to start working by Jan 2012 after I complete my ADN and pass the boards.

So I have the following questions?

Are my plans realistic and doable?

Anyone with similar experience want to share how they did it?

Is FNP the way to go in the light of health reform etc?

Any suggestions on other reputable programs I can apply to.

All comments and suggestions welcome.:D

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Specializes in CVICU, Education Dept., FNP Student.

You might want to check into which will be the last semester of admission for an MSN program. With the switch to DNP by 2015 (I believe), this may effect how long you will be in school if you have to get a DNP rather than an MSN.

As a side note- I firmly believe in several years experience as a nurse before pursuing your NP. It will only benefit you. Plus, if you're working in Alabama as an NP, you can almost make more as a night shift charge nurse! (Not in all areas, but some!)

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Specializes in ED, Cardiac Medicine, Retail Health.
ALCCRN said:
if you're working in Alabama as an NP, you can almost make more as a night shift charge nurse! (Not in all areas, but some!)

But the quality of life as an NP can be much better than as an RN. Money is not everything, I would rather make a little less $$ and have a job that gives you more respect and is less physically demanding. And since you will be a relative new nurse, you will start out making more than an RN with comparable time. Also there is the potential to make more than an RN would in your career without working overtime, horrendous shifts, and dealing with the general bs that nurses deal with. :twocents:

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Hi,

Thanks for the feedback. I don't live in Alabama. I am considering UAB because it is online. I actually live in Maryland.

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