Nursing school-please help!

cfrimer · May 8, 2006

Hi Fb,

I can't answer your question about whether or not it really matters where you get your degree, since I'm only about to start a direct-entry NP program in the fall...

However, when I was trying to decide between schools, I posted a similar question to yours, and like you, got very little response. I interpreted this as a "no, it doesn't matter."

As for how I chose my school, for me location was all-important (I did not want to relocate), so that was a big help. I hadn't finished my prereqs yet, so I knew I would need a school that allows you to apply before they were all completed. Also, several people (doctors and nurses) had spontaneously mentioned the program I ended up choosing, so each time that happened, I made a mental note. I asked around my friends and co-workers and got the contact info for a bunch of people who recently graduated from or were currently attending the schools I applied to; then I contacted them and asked them about their experiences, etc. There was also a lot of "gut" feeling involved, and assessing how the schools' admissions & financial aid personnel treated me. Finally, I got a fat scholarship from one school but not the others, so my decision was cemented for me!

Good luck!

~Chantelle

froggyb79 · May 9, 2006

Thank you so much for your response! I appreciate it!!!

zaggar · May 9, 2006

Short answer: It won't matter all that much. You're going to be judged on your ability to get things done, not on your pedigree.

I go to school wherever the wind blows me, but a friend of mine is one of those wiley geniuses who has schools fawning all over him, so he gets to pick and choose. Here's what he says:

If you plan on settling down in one area, go for a local school (community college is fine) that you notice people nod their head when you mention. If the locals approve of it, then its the best school for you.

If you plan on traveling the world, then a private school known around the world is beneficial in getting you a job during the phone interview.

If you want to leap ahead of your peers to get a good management position, then go for every advantage you can get, including pedigree. If you just want to be a nurse, then go wherever. But always go for the best grade point average you can - that never hurts.

casualjim · May 9, 2006

The thing that count as far as I can tell from everyone that I know and talk to about this is getting licensed.

aloha

Jim

snowfreeze, BSN, RN · May 9, 2006

Set your priorities, apply and choose from what you get accepted at. I could only afford community college at the time I applied. I put that off for a year due to being sponsored for paramedic school. I did my pre-reqs while I went to medic classes.

If I had it to do over without limits, I would apply to 4 year colleges with upper level classes offered quicly after BSN without need for experience. I am getting tired of the sore feet and back at the end of 12 hour shifts. Although I would not want to toss away the priceless experience I have gained in 15 years.

chuckc, BSN, RN · May 9, 2006

I don't know where you live, but here in California, at least the bay area, you have to apply several places and hope to get in at least one. The programs are so impacted here. :uhoh21:

leslie :-D · May 9, 2006

i specifically chose a diploma program through a phenomenal hospital. i paid much more in tuition, but wherever i interviewed after graduation, the responses were enthusiastic w/many job offers.

sadly, diploma programs have become a thing of the past....where i live anyway.

leslie