Need some guidenance here

I think that getting your LPN would be a great option with such a long wait ahead. Some programs which goes by point systems give extra points to LPNs, CNAs, EMTs, etc. I say go for it!! Good luck

Is it guaranteed that after the 2 year wait you will get a spot in the program?

If so, I probably would just wait. LPN programs can be expensive (in my area at least). You could take the free time to spend with the kids since once you start nursing school you will likely have much less time. That's what I would do anyway.

But if its NOT guaranteed I would go for the LPN.

By the way, tell your boyfriend to help with some housework! :)

The LPN program I was looking at is partners with the school I go to. After financial aid and another program called WIA I would only have to take out 4000 in loans. It would let me take one class in the place of two and it may help me get in sooner (its a fast track for LPN). The spot is an estimate. I just didn't know if working as an LPN would look good on my resume when I went to apply for a job as an RN. Also, I would make more money while I was in school, if I could find a job (which is another concern). I was going to see if the job I have now hires LPN's or just RN's. Thanks for the opinions! It really helps getting advice from people in the field.

If the LPN has no wait list I say get that while you are waiting then you can do the RN program after that :) Good luck.

Im actually against the LPN idea. It sounds like a waste of time and money. If your getting into a program for RN, they may change things since you would be an LPN starting it. Id take the financial route and say work to save up money and make the RN program more affordable without loans. You have the CNA, you wont make much more with an LPN, and would be doing close to the same stuff as an LPN vs a CNA (i know theres a few differences, but to get a license for a year, probably not too many). If the RN program says you will get in sooner it makes sense to do it. I would clarify with the school to be sure.

If i were in your position, I would work as a CNA a decent amount (full time) and save up the money. Maybe get some of the text books and start reading ahead. Once you start the RN program your social life will decrease, time with your family will be tough because there is a lot of studying to do. Really enjoy the next 2 years, because the years your in the RN program will be filled with studying and clinicals.

I would say continue working as a CNA. By the time you finish your LPN program, there won't be much time to find a job as one before going to the nursing program. Squishing everything in a year won't be good. Plus if you're worried about expenses I think taking a year to focus on making money would make you less stressed about it later on!