Pre-Nursing Student

How about the local community college? I'm not familiar with that area, but community college especially in California is usually pretty good. You could check out any community college in the state, too, if you are mobile. That way you can still get tuition benefits, if I recall correctly.

sadly I have looked at a lot of the schools in the area, and they have ridiculous waiting lists. Santa Ana college doesn't think it will be opening up until Fall of 2014, and someone i know has already been waiting 3 years

Luckily there are other schools, but their websites don't break down the policies in a clear precise way, or even let you know if there IS a waiting list.

I was hoping there would be something similar to a private school where you just jump right in and your pre-req. are already included as part of the program... (I could be very naive though_)

I know everyone wants to rush into their career, so I feel guilty even asking this question. I'm just not in a position to depend on parents/family for any financial help. Its been ONLY me since I was 15, so I've gotta find something that works for someone with ZERO support.

Can you move out of CA and attend a school in a different region of the country?

How about going to community college for gen ed and prereqs and transferring to a CSU or UC for their nursing programs? I recommend CC because it is cheap. It is easy to transfer IF you really apply yourself and do well.

You can work while you go to school. Perhaps get your CNA and get medical experience? Just suggestions ^.^ I would say definitely don't get yourself into one of those scam private institutions ...some private schools are cool and you could get yourself a decent financial aid package, but California is really great for their CC and public university system. I miss it