has anyone interviewed at northeastern for the direct-entry program? i have an interview this saturday and i don't know what to expect- any advice?
i got into regis and should hear from umass in a few weeks. i also applied to simmons. my biggest concern (besides getting in) are the student loans i'll have to face when i graduate. if anyone has been through one of these programs, is there anything you can tell me about the strength of the programs in comparison to their cost!?
Redsox - I'm trying to decide between MGH and Simmons. I like the location of Simmons and the course load (spring, summer, fall, winter) as opposed to MGH where you have a heavier course load with summers off.
When you talk to people around Boston, everyone says MGH MGH MGH. I really can't tell the difference besides name recognition. As a student intent on FNP, it seems like a toss up.
Do you know who has more clinical time or any other differentiating criteria?
I have looked at both of the schools, and I guess I can give you a neutral opinion because I'm already going somewhere else!
Personally, I feel MGH and Simmons are on the same page academically, reputation-wise, and clinically. I heard the clinical affiliation really doesn't go that far when it comes down to NP placements so you're really at no more of an advantage than anyone else at a boston school (thats how they sell their program, with the affiliation). I personally liked how Simmons had a campus, and more of a college feel. Both campuses are not particularly easy to get to (longwood traffic and navy yard isolation), but MGH doesn't have great parking and is not connected to any major T stop. Also, when I set up a meeting with the director at Simmons she was very friendly and down to earth. MGH was somewhat condescending. I think you have to keep in mind every program, in order to be accredited, has to give their students a minimum number of clinical hours. In the end, you might be better off with more clinical hours, but the majority of the skills you need will be learned on the job.
My advice: weigh the best financial option, if you want to go to school in the summer (3 summers in a row at simmons?), and most importantly--go with your gut!
Thank you for your response. I love the reputation of MGH but Simmons is right down the road from me, and the though of a lighter course load that continues though the summer is appealing. I have a lot of thinking to do.
I agree with what feels best for you, location, how you are financing and who may give you more $$. Perhaps you could meet with the Simmons Coordinator, and sit through a class if they will let you.
I already spoke with them and they did offer that. I'm sure the academics are similar, but it's the overall experience that I'm concerned about. Diversity of clinical placements, focus on student needs, class size, post graduate job placements, etc. I'm hoping some other students interested in the same programs will be able to add to the debate. :)
Redsox, where did you go? applying-de, how about you?
Im going to BC next year for the master's entry program. Its the shortest, and cheapest program in boston with a reputation that speaks for itself. I was given a partial scholarship, which helped financially. It was my first choice as I come from a pre-med type background (BS in May09) and don't want to spend another 3-4 years in school. Id rather get out as soon as possible and start practicing, because this is where I personally feel the real experience comes from. From what I've heard BC has a lot of clinical placements at top hospitals, an extensive alumni base, and a very small class (32 last yr). I guess thats why I chose it!
I was planning on applying to Simmons (it was one of my top choices, really great program) but I found out about BC mid jan so didn't bother to spend another $50 if I already got into my #1. Right now I'm finishing up the financial portion, which is nice because its still March.
I applied to MGHIHP, Simmons, and NEU. Did not hear from Simmons. Received an e-mail from NEU that they could not accept me "this year" and encourage me to reapply next yr. Still no letter-so don't know if it's a rejection or wait list letter. Received a wait list letter from MGHIHP...
REDSOX 17 Congrats on BC! Great program. I did not apply there and sort of wish I did now. But I did this all last minute, instead of applying next yr. Now I am super stressed about getting in this yr as my boss wrote me a recommendation and everyone knows I am applying...C'est la vie. Good luck to ALL!!!! :-)
I applied to MGHIHP, Simmons, and NEU. Did not hear from Simmons. Received an e-mail from NEU that they could not accept me "this year" and encourage me to reapply next yr. Still no letter-so don't know if it's a rejection or wait list letter. Received a wait list letter from MGHIHP...
REDSOX 17 Congrats on BC! Great program. I did not apply there and sort of wish I did now. But I did this all last minute, instead of applying next yr. Now I am super stressed about getting in this yr as my boss wrote me a recommendation and everyone knows I am applying...C'est la vie. Good luck to ALL!!!! :-)
When did you get the email from NEU? I still have heard nothing. I'm pretty much just laughing about it at this point. :chuckle
Still no decision between MGHIHP and Simmons. I'm starting to have dreams about it!
I've yet to hear anything from NEU either. I finally called yesterday and left a message, nothing yet. I had sent an e-mail about a month ago but didn't get a response to that. Interesting.....
Do you see advantages of NEU over Simmons and MGH? Mostly the co-op component?
That's ridiculous! So not worth your effort to re-apply and wait another year to get in! :)
The whole NEU thing is crazy to me. Rolling admissions, a variable number of spots, lack of communication, 4 years etc.
Who knows if I would have gotten in but I wish I would have known about BC. 2 years straight through and done would be great.
I got into MGH, the only other program I applied in Boston was NEU. I'm not living in Boston now so I'm not as in tune with what's going on there but it sounds like a lot of hospitals are having hiring freezes. If there's 100s of us as brand new RNs applying for jobs during the second summer...can we really counting on getting that experience?
Maybe I'm just letting spinning on the cost of going to school and what not too much though. It's worked out for other people in previous years right?!
This may not help, but I received a letter in the mail yesterday from NEU informing me that I was placed on their waitlist and would hear about acceptance or rejection in September.
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Redsox - I'm trying to decide between MGH and Simmons. I like the location of Simmons and the course load (spring, summer, fall, winter) as opposed to MGH where you have a heavier course load with summers off.
When you talk to people around Boston, everyone says MGH MGH MGH. I really can't tell the difference besides name recognition. As a student intent on FNP, it seems like a toss up.
Do you know who has more clinical time or any other differentiating criteria?
Also, thanks for responding. !