New with questions, pre-nursing student related

[Mrs. Nesbit]

Hi everyone, I've been reading here for awhile and decided I need to ask the experts regarding a major life decision for myself and my family.

I'm a 39 year old married mom of 3.

I have my BS in Elementary Ed, but was never employed b/c full-time teaching jobs were (& still are) very hard to come by and then I was home with babies.

I would really like to pursue a career in nursing, something I should have done instead of the Ed. degree. I'd like to attend BHSON. How competitive is admission? Does anyone know if they are wait listed? I have a few pre-req's to take, but don't want a 2 year wait for clinicals, like I've read are occurring at St. V's. I'm planning on taking my Chem, AP I and II at HCC. I'll take the Chem in Winter '08, and see if I should take AP in summer '08.

I am also running into a stumbling block that I really do not have anyone to write reference letters for me. Any suggestions? Feeling a bit like a loser.

Thanking you all in advance for any advice,

Diana

[SusanKathleen, RN]

Hi Diana,

Good for you. Look on their website, or call the dept, and find out when the next informational meeting is - then go! If they don't have one upcoming, make an appointment and go ask questions of someone in the department.

They probably have all the info you want online. Did you check there yet?

Yes, it is competitive, but certainly not impossible.

For many schools, the application is due anywhere from 6 months to a year in advance, so look into getting your application started now, if it's available. That should be info that's available on their website, too.

Also, check every other school in your 'drivable' area for a program. Sounds like you're perfect for the second degree program - like me!

If I were you, I'd get going on my pre-req's now. Most places will admit you without ALL of them completed, but they want to see your recent grades on these pre-req's.

Good luck. Go for it!

[Mrs. Nesbit]

Thanks for the reply. Yes, I've perused their website, and am going to give them a call tomorrow regarding an information session. I am too late for the fall semester at HCC, and I need to get alot of ducks in a row (transcripts, etc.) before beginning there.

I'm still very concerned about the references and recommendation letters though. Not sure how to approach that. Being home raising kids for 10 years can isolate you from the right type of connections for that.

I'd love to hear from anyone attending BHSON to hear all about it!

-Diana

[NaomieRN]

Thanks for the reply. Yes, I've perused their website, and am going to give them a call tomorrow regarding an information session. I am too late for the fall semester at HCC, and I need to get alot of ducks in a row (transcripts, etc.) before beginning there.

I'm still very concerned about the references and recommendation letters though. Not sure how to approach that. Being home raising kids for 10 years can isolate you from the right type of connections for that.

I'd love to hear from anyone attending BHSON to hear all about it!

-Diana

If you are planning to go to St Vincents College, do not take Microbiology, Anatomy 1&2 because you will have to take a test. The exam is so hard, very few people pass. If you do not pass their exams, you will have to take the classes over. I am a former teacher and decided to go to nursing school last fall. I am attending St Vincents College and had to take Anatomy over. If I can answer any other questions, feel free to pm.

Good luck