New nursing student! Any help is welcome

[kataraang, BSN]

Hello, I am starting an accelerated A.A. nursing program (to get an RN). I should be graduating next August and hopefully passing the NCLEX by the fall.

I've been told that an AA degree is probably not enough to get a job, and that I should be going for a BSN instead. I'm sure someone has already asked this question, and that it has been discussed ad nauseum but I'm having difficulty navigating this forum. Is it worth postponing employment another year after getting an RN to get a BSN? I live with my parents and work nights as a grocery store cashier.

On another note, I think if I don't reevaluate my lifestyle, I will be 30 pounds heavier by graduation. Nursing school kills my workout schedule, my nutrition, and my sleep! (no surprise there, I suppose)

[Rose_Queen, BSN, MSN, RN]

The best way to figure out what degree is needed is to look at open job postings. Some may state BSN required or preferred. Others may not state either but a BSN applicant will be given preference. Whether you choose to begin an RN-to-BSN program immediately after graduation or not, start looking for RN jobs immediately- many employers will look at someone not working as an RN as a stale new grad- and in some job markets, it is taking up to a year for new grads to find employment.

[PVCCHoo]

Swap out that grocery job for a CNA, PCA, PCT, nurse tech type position at a local hospital. Work that job while in school and hopefully use that foot in the door to land a job at the same place.

In my area, the ADN students that do this all have jobs lined up before graduation. The ones that still live with their folks and don't work or who keep their non healthcare jobs have a much harder time getting that first RN job. Nearly any big hospital is going to post jobs that say BSN strongly preferred, but there is always another way in. One hospital even says required on the job postings, but will make exceptions for existing employees. Then you can often get them to pay for the BSN as well.

[Miss Infermiera2b, BSN, RN]

If I were you, I would start applying for jobs immediately after passing the NCLEX. I'm also starting an ADN program and will be applying for jobs right after licensure. During that time, I'll also be applying for RN-BSN programs. Hospitals that prefer BSN grads will sometimes accept ADNs if they are in the process of getting their BSN. I also agree with a previous poster, get a hospital job. I'm currently an ER scribe, and one of my coworkers (also a recent graduate nurse) just got a preceptorship here.

[JaaaeyRN]

I stayed very fit when I was in nursing school. 30 mins. or an hour work out didn't interfere with my study time. In fact, I lost all motivation after I was done with school.

Good luck with your goal.