I know alot of people are weary about becoming an LPN these days. They are getting phased out, not getting paid well, or whatever else crap you can come up with. I too didn't want to an LPN program, I thought It wasn't worth it. Boy was I wrong. I applied and got accepted into Gateway Community College LPN fast track program in Phoenix Arizona. It was a nine month program , with amazing clinical experience in great facilities . They taught us very well and got us very prepared for HESI, and NCLEX. I passed everything with flying colors.I am now eligable to transfer into third block of the RN program and finish fourth block there after. In the time I would of spent waiting on an RN program waiting list at this same college, I can have my RN. I took my NCLEX, and am now a state licensed LPN. I paid out of pocket for my education, book and and all. I am a single mother working two jobs. I got hired as a pediatric home health LPN making in the 90th percent of the national average LPN salary. Pretty darn good! In my first two paychecks I will get back every penny I put into my education.That seems worth it doesnt it? I have worked in the ER and hospitals for a long time, so i have experience, but nonetheless the LPN program has allowed to be secure a well paying job as a LPN, while working towards my RN. I will be an experienced nurse when i get my first RN job. I will know what I am doing, and how I am going to do it.I will be confident, skilled and desired.An LPN is a respected member of the healthcare team and we should remember that when we dress our confidence for the day . I am a success story, I am a single young mother who attained her LPN in 9 months, passed the NCLEX on the first try, secured a job I wanted ( got many calls for jobs I didn't want) within two months, and will have a very well paying job while I am finishing my RN in 9 more months. Tell me that isn't worth it...I deff recommend becoming an LPN prior to RN. I am a CNA, with phlebotomy and EKG certification, now I am a new grad LPN and soon will be an RN. Just the first of my life long career path. I want the old me to read this post..the old me who almost went to a 90k private college to avoid a 2 yr waiting list for the RN program. This route is just as fast, financially smart and well worth it. I wrote a blog about my LPN experience if anyone wants the link I can email it or its on my "about me" on here. 0 Likes
duskyjewel Specializes in hospice. Jul 28, 2014 Nice! I'm on the waiting list for Gateway, hoping to start in January. How many semesters did you wait after applying? 0 Likes
mmtorrez89 Has 5 years experience. Jul 29, 2014 Nice! I'm on the waiting list for Gateway, hoping to start in January. How many semesters did you wait after applying? i did not wait at all, i got in for the semester i applied for in fall 2013. 0 Likes
Mayaquice Jul 29, 2014 That's exactly what I needed to read right now. I am a single Mother as well, working on my CNA. I will be traveling down a very similar path as you have. So this was inspiring & motivational for me, thanks! I am in Az as well & plan on applying to the same LPN/FT porgram. I currently live in Maricopa. A little ways from Gateway but doing my CNA through CAC Superstition Mtn. campus just because they offer a saturday course :) I'm beginning my baby steps. Again, thank you for sharing! 0 Likes
duskyjewel Specializes in hospice. Jul 29, 2014 Well unfortunately I know the notifications already went out for Fall 2014, but I'll be keeping an eagle eye on my email in September when notifications go out for Spring 2015. 0 Likes
mmtorrez89 Has 5 years experience. Jul 30, 2014 I live in Maricopa too. PMme mayaquice. You can do it..congrats on starting the walk...That's exactly what I needed to read right now. I am a single Mother as well, working on my CNA. I will be traveling down a very similar path as you have. So this was inspiring & motivational for me, thanks! I am in Az as well & plan on applying to the same LPN/FT porgram. I currently live in Maricopa. A little ways from Gateway but doing my CNA through CAC Superstition Mtn. campus just because they offer a saturday course :) I'm beginning my baby steps. Again, thank you for sharing! 0 Likes
FollowingMydreams Nov 22, 2014 Amazing story! I am in a LPN program now and it's very intense. When I first told everyone about it I have received nothing but negativity! But your story was very motivating!! 0 Likes
