On my way...

[CRNAspire]

...to CRNAhood. I graduate my ASN in December. I have the opportunity to start my career in an ICU in Phoenix, AZ in January 2009.

My question relates to the timing of it all. Since most CRNA programs accept applications in the fall, is it reasonable to apply to these programs my first year even though i would be lacking the few months to a "full" year experience, knowing that by the time the program does start the next year I would have surpassed the suggested experience (at least 18 months in the ICU)?

Also, my BSN graduation would not be until April or May of 2010.

Currently I am riding a 4.0, worked in ER before nursing school for 4 years, in an outpatient surgery center for 1 year, and here I am.

What do you say?

[hell000nurse]

you cant even apply to an anesthesia program without your BSN

[ID-SRNA]

you cant even apply to an anesthesia program without your BSN

Actually, some places will interview you if you are in the process of completing your BSN. I do know of a couple of individuals who letter of acceptance came with the condition that their BSN would be completed before the program started. So it is possible in some programs. It should be noted though that the nurses that received this invitation had several years of experience and were good candidates. So it is possible. Just my experience. G.

[estherojin]

honestly, i think you should wait until you have a full year's worth of critical care experience. you are not going to do yourself any favors by not meeting the admissions criteria. they might be willing to overlook one, but falling short on two might not reflect well on you as a candidate. your first year as a nurse in the ICU will be tough, there will be a lot to learn. on top of that you will be working on your BSN and studying for your GRE (not to mention NCLEX). what you don't want to do is waste money and effort in the application process if you aren't a strong candidate (yet). I think you have a good start already, your experience in the ED and surgicenter will help you on your first year as a nurse. a few of my colleagues who are excellent nurses and had top grades hurried their application and unfortunately did not get accepted. Anesthesia programs are competitive, you want to make sure that you can meet (and exceed if possible) all their admissions requirements. good luck to you. it took awhile for me to figure out this was the path i wanted to take, i admire you young folks who've figured out what they want early on.