I am new to this forum and have recently submitted applications to several direct entry masters programs. Right now, I have a lot of anxiety concerning the whole process. I encountered several technical problems getting my recommendations mailed on time, for example, but for the most part, I think I am a good candidate.
My first choice is UCSF, although I am aware of how competitive it is. Statistically, they have something like a 7% acceptance rate, which is on par with medical school! I also get the impression that they don't really take the cookie cutter type of applicant. Rather, they prefer people who have had a variety of experiences, are creative, and those who have a serious interest in public health. One reason I believe this is that UCSF happens to be located in one of the most diverse cities of the country and so they must address the complicated, diverse medical needs of that population. I think it's a great place to become a healthcare worker. There is a lot of interesting initiatives going on in terms of research and how healthcare is administered in San Francisco (they just passed a universal healthcare policy, for instance).
A bit more about myself: I would like to do research as an NP and believe that UCSF and other schools such as Johns Hopkins and Yale encourage this. Unfortunately, while I am well-prepared academically, I feel that my lack of hands on experience will be a negative. I have a degree in neuroscience and have worked in labs. The only real medical experience I have had has been working as a secretary in a pediatrics office and now, in an assisted living facility (overnight shift) where my duties often entail helping the CNAs pick up residents who have fallen, helping residents in various non-medical ways, etc. Obviously, my interactions with residents are limited from a medical point of view, but I do feel that I am learning a great deal from working with the CNAs and nurses. At this stage in my life, I don't think going to school to become a CNA to acquire medical experience would be a wise decision; it would only increase the amount of time I will have to be in school and I would be earning less than I am now, which, with my current student loan debt, would hardly be helpful. On that note, since I have witnessed the type of work CNAs are required to do, which often goes way beyond their job descriptions, I believe they are definitely underpaid.
Now, for some questions about UCSF and other schools. Does anybody know when they send out interview requests? I've also applied to Johns Hopkins and wonder if they require interviews. It doesn't seem like it based on the information from the website. What about financial aid and scholarhips? How realistic is it to assume one will get scholarship money?
Just curious, has anyone picked psychiatric mental health nursing as their intended specialty? So far, I haven't found anybody who has and wonder why. Anytime I mention that I want to do this speciality people think I'm crazy!!!! Of course any specialty has its challenges. I realize that my encounters with patients may be more challenging depending upon the setting, but I can't see myself doing another specialty except for cardiology or maybe women's health.
I do realize this post is ridiculously long, but I have so many questions! I'd appreciate any input or advice.
