Need Help Finding My Nursing Path

[EmilyMW2020]

Hi everyone, 

I've been struggling for awhile now to find the ideal path I should take to accomplish my goal of becoming an FNP. I've tried reaching out to friends, finding a mentor, arranged meetings with counselors, and have consulted a handful of online forums for guidance, but nothing. So I'm hoping maybe someone on here can give me some insight!

Background:

- Graduated with a BS in Biomedical science in 2015 with a 2.74 (not super competitive, I had no drive in my undergrad and have done a lot of goal searching since I was 21). My cumulative GPA is the stronger of my science and last 60 hours GPA. 

- I did work in a pharmacy during school and racked up over 300 hours of experience there. 

- Since graduation, I worked as an inorganic chemist, a clinical data consultant for a genetic testing company, and now currently a biopharma scientist. (never really escaped the science field, basically). 

- I've taken classes over the last 5 years while working full time (developmental psych, nutrition, medical terminology, infectious pathophys, etc - achieved A's in all of those courses) and have finally managed to get my GPA up over 3.0. 

- I have also become a certified EKG tech, phlebotomy tech, and am currently BLS certified over the last few years. 

- I am currently retaking Microbiology (got an A in the lab, but a C in the lecture during undergrad), but currently have a 95% and plan to also finish with an A. 

- I have shadowed PAs, NPs, and DCs over the years and have obtained letters of recommendations from them all. 

** Now that you have some background info, I'm wondering what would be the best path to take to achieve my goal of becoming an FNP with my lower GPA. 

1. Should I bother pursuing an ABSN?

2. Should I pursue a masters in Clinical Nutrition (which I'm also very interested in) as a GPA boost to apply for a nursing program. 

3. Should I bother considering an entry to MSN bridge program? 

** I'd prefer not to keep retaking pre-reqs if I can avoid it. I am now 27 and have spent thousands out of pocket and lots of time over the last few years retaking classes as a GPA boost. I'm ready to take the next step. I'm willing to relocate for programs, but if it helps narrow it down I do live in TN. 

Any help or guidance would be much appreciated! TIA!

[ns12]

I think your experience and what sounds like strong recommendation letters will more than make up for that GPA. I would absolutely look into applying to programs such as Vanderbilt's Prespecialty Master's Program or Yale's GEPN program. I would also apply to ABSN's as a backup, but I feel like you would be a strong candidate for direct entry MSN programs.