Nursing Degree BSN or Associates?

[Lexiock]

Hello! So I have done one year of college and I am starting to realize how hard it is to get into nursing programs. I would really like to eventually do traveling nursing, as well as hopefully become a Nurse Practitioner one day. So my question is, can I go to a technical college and get my associates, and then do an RN to BSN bridge program or would it be best to just do my BSN? Thanks so much!

[Jules A, MSN]

I think much of this depends on what the market is like in your area and how picky you are likely to be when it comes to finding a job. Keep in mind many ADN programs are extremely competitive also. It has been my experience that if someone is willing to work in LTC there are almost always plenty of opportunities for LPNs and ADNs. I started with my LPN and continued on with ADN, BSN, MS-NP and that was the right path for me because overall my tuition was reasonable, I was able to work as a nurse while I continued with my education and graduated without debt.

Something I recommend is using all your clinical rotations as quasi job interviews. If you find a unit that you enjoy with staff who you think you would work well with get your face known to the key players including the nurse manager. Networking in this profession is under utilized imo and invaluable when it comes to getting the best opportunities. Good luck.