Published Jul 27, 2014
mmtorrez89
59 Posts
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.
BPerez32
63 Posts
Amazing so happy for you!!!!!
duskyjewel
1,335 Posts
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.
Mayaquice
76 Posts
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!
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.
I live in Maricopa too. PMme mayaquice. You can do it..congrats on starting the walk...
FollowingMydreams
8 Posts
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!!