Pre-Nursing ADN... where to go from here?

[sjg8412]

Hi everyone!

I am a pre-nursing student currently. I plan on going for my ADN and returning for my BSN once my son gets into school.

Like all other aspiring nurses, I want to guarantee my spot in nursing school. I've got an awesome GPA, and I'm busting tail to make an A in the program pre reqs. However, I want to have the upper hand come time to apply for nursing school and am searching for a bit of advice.

I'm contemplating a CNA program, however I can't find anything near me that looks legitimate... (don't CNA programs need some kind of accreditation?) My school doesn't offer anything, but there is a community college about 40 minutes away offering the course. If I can help it, I'd rather not make that commute. I'm in class 5 days a week, I have a work study job, and come home to an 11 month old. I am also thinking about an online program. Should I decide to do the 'in class' option, the closest thing (which is one that looks sketchy to me) is at this link at the bottom of the post.

Also, I may be thinking too far ahead, but should I apply to more than one nursing program? I'm terrified I won't get in and I don't want an awkward semester of downtime where I try to decide how to move forward.

Thanks in advance!

http://www.natcrichmond.com/

[bravera]

I would be wary of online programs because they do not always transfer well to other schools, especially if they are science-based. I would go straight for your ADN and then bridge to the BSN like you initially planned. I'm not sure where you are located, but, in my area, we are told that as long as you have a 3.5 GPA, you will get in SOMEWHERE. If you have the drive and motivation to get into nursing school, it will show in your efforts, no matter what. Also, definitely apply to as many schools as possible!

A quick google search leads me to believe that the linked program is a legitimate business ( Nurse Aide Training Center of Richmond Business Review in Richmond, KY - Central and Eastern Kentucky BBB ), but it does look a little sketchy. I couldn't find anything about their accreditation. CNA Classes in Kentucky | CNA Training in KY | CNAClasses.org

[LoriRNCM, ADN, ASN, RN]

I wasn't aware that being a CNA increases your chances for getting into nursing school. I know it provides good patient experience and hospital experience, but do they actually rate you based on whether or not you are a CNA? My school doesn't. They do recommend a CNA course for anyone with no medical experience but it's just a recommendation. If your GPA is that good, you might start logging some volunteer hours in your community. Some schools require it but even if they don't it looks very good on your cover letter or a letter of recommendation from one of your professors. And you could always pick up a TEAS study guide to start studying for the TEAS while you finish your pre reqs. Good luck!:)

[ant2cory]

I agree that volunteer hours would look best. You don't want to overwhelm yourself with the stress of more classes during the prerequs.