Where do I start???

LAARN · Aug 22, 1999

Gina,

You can get started by choosing a college in your area. Get a copy of the required classes. If you choose a BSN- 4 yr program, then you will have 2 years of mostly general subjects, such as English, history, psychology, biology etc. The last 2 years are clinical and nursing specific lectures. You have to take these together. But you can take the first 2 years of classes when convenient for you. You may even find a small community college that offers evening classes. Take 1 or 2 classes a semester if you can. You can work at your own pace. The most important thing is to get the information and get started. Good Luck!!!

Sincerely, Lisa R.N. ( OB nurse)

Gina · Aug 22, 1999

Lisa~ Thanks a bunch. That really helps!

I do have another question. You mentioned a BSN program, what are the different program's? And whitch is my best bet? Is BSN the one you would suggest?

Thanks!

LAARN · Aug 23, 1999

Gina,

I'm glad that the info helped. There are different types of nursing programs, diploma- 3 years, ADN- which is 2+ and BSN- which is 4 years. For an in-depth discussion on which is better go into the general nursing discussion part of this message board, choose the topic diploma. I have a BSN and most people that I know either have one or are getting their BSN or MSN now. Best of luck!!!

Tired · Aug 23, 1999

Gina,

You sound just like me. I have 2 kids also, although they are 18 & 19 right now. I went to school as soon as they were in all day. I threw myself into school full time because I couldn't afford individual classes, and I couldn't get loans or grants unless I was fulltime. You may want to check on that. It was hard, but it was well worth the effort. I had a lot of family support and had someone there when the kids came home. I was able to take classes days, nights, and summers, so I got done 4 years and my class load was manageable. A BSN program is worth the extra time involved because it is what will ultimatly be required someday. Although I don't get paid anymore than a diploma or associate degree, I have more employment options. Follow Lisa's advise and check out a nursing program in your area. Make sure they are accredited. Also, check and see if any of your high school classes, such as algebra, will count towards your college. Sometimes you get lucky. Then, as a new grad, you may or may not get hired right in to OB. It depends on the hospital. A good med/surg background will help, though, and will also be time well spent. Good luck!

Gina · Aug 24, 1999

Thanks, you both have really helped! I also checked the diploma thread. LOL very interesting. I think I will go for the BSN. I have plenty of time. My youngest is only 3 months old. I am really looking forward to geting started though.

Thanks again for the helpful info.

obnurseinNW · Feb 22, 2000

The others gave you great advise. I have an ADN in nursing the main difference is if you want to get into management or not. Also some areas look more to BSN's geographic areas. I took most classes at night until I got into the nursing program. I worked 6 years med-surg and then moved to L&D where I went though a residency program from the hospital. Good Luck.