3 pre-reqs left and a dilemma

Published

I'm getting ready to begin my 4th semester on Monday and I have completed all of my co-reqs as well as all of my pre-reqs except 3. I still have physiology, pharmacology, and microbiology left before I can get my permission to take the HESI entrance exam and then apply to nursing school.

My problem is this.. the way my community college does things (maybe they all do?) is the deadline for applying to nursing school falls right in the middle of the semester before. So in order to apply to Fall 14, I would've had to finish my pre-reqs in the Fall of 13 in order to meet the March 31, 2014 deadline. Therefore, even if I do complete these classes in the spring semester, I can't apply for Fall, and will be applying for spring 15 (deadline in Aug).

At this point I am a 4.0 student with 35 credit hours, and I'm registered for 16 credit hours this upcoming semester including those 3 sciences.. pharm, phys, and micro. Everyone is telling me that I'm out of my mind.. but they also said that when I took Anatomy and Stats together with Spanish and Speech last semester.

My issue is.. I don't have forever to wait. I'm an older student. I do work, but on my own schedule (photography). My kids are older teens and do not need my constant attention like younger children. If I don't do these 3 classes this semester, I won't be able to meet the deadline for Spring 15. I already know it's highly unlikely I'll get it the first time due to so many reapplying.. and our system is based on points, with points also given to reapplies. I'm looking at realistically getting in Fall of 15, possibly Spring 16. So.. I do not want to extend that any more than necessary.

I've read on other threads that a lot of people take these classes together and do well if they are dedicated enough. I'm also signed up with great professors. I'm just really nervous. If anyone has some words of advice or encouragement, I'd greatly appreciate it.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in L&D, infusion, urology.

Most schools will let you have at least something outstanding still, because courses are generally in progress when you apply. You might contact the program or check out the website and see what their policy is on courses in progress.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I think it's possible to do it. I don't think it's crazy at all. If you know you can juggle just stick to your instinct. You'll do well if you dedicate enough time to each science.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

My school(I'm in IL) , you can have 6 outstanding credit hours and still apply. They just say you must have all classes done by the time your accepted in to the nursing program. A lot of people will apply even if they have 6 credits left because at our school there is a waiting list as well, so no one even knows when they'll get in. Of course you have to think about how you also have to study for the HESI test...ughh...I know what you mean about time, but I've been in school for 4 years, and I no longer think of the time. Just think that You WILL GET THERE ONE DAY! I continue to tell myself that to not feel all the years I've been in school. Good luck!

-Jess(part time student,IL)

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in n/a.

Only you know what you can handle. I'm still in the early stages of my prereqs, and this semester, I am taking Anatomy with lab, Political Science, History, College 100 (silly required 1 hour course), and also a Math prep course through the library. I have 4 kids ranging in ages from 10 months to 10 years and I work part time on the weekends. I know I can do it because I have an amazing support system through my husband and in laws. You can do anything you set your mind to. Even if you don't get in the first semester, then you'll get those extra reapply points for next time. :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Honestly, I think it's entirely possible to do it. The biggest thing is do you think it's possible? I'm taking anatomy and two government classes this semester in addition to working a 40 hour work week to support my husband and daughter. People think I'm insane (my family included), but I want to do this and I'm going to prove them wrong. If you really want this, then you can keep your focus. It sounds like you are a great student, so I honestly don't anticipate this being an overly difficult semester for you. If you were taking 18-21 hours with those classes, I'd maybe reconsider... but in your situation I think you'll be fine. Your kids will understand that you're trying to better yourself (and by extension them) as long as you make them aware that that is the end goal. If anything, I would say you're setting a great example for them about what it means to be determined and successful. Maybe if you keep that frame of mind it will help continue driving you forward. :) Good luck!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Three science classes at a time will be tough, but you can do it. I'm older too. The school I am applying to changed their prerequisites, so I ended up taking anatomy, microbiology, English, sociology, a film class and interpersonal communications -- 21 credits -- last fall. I worked full time, but I have no children. I vowed to never, ever do that again, but I made it. Fun? Absolutely not. Doable? absolutely! Good luck.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in CRNA.

My school has a Feb 1 deadline for the ADN and the LPN/Paramedic to RN bridge. As long as you are taking your final pre-reqs and are finished by the END of the spring semester then you can still be considered. That is me in this instance, I am taking my final 4 pre-reqs this semester. The bridge begins during the summer and the ADN begins in the fall.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Unfortunately, my college is one that will absolutely not even consider looking at you until you complete everything in their order. I'm jealous of those who can apply while working on pre-reqs! :troll: I have to complete them in order to get permission to sit for the HESI, then I must have the HESI score before I am able to apply. The only thing they will possibly permit me to do, is once I've applied, while I'm waiting to get in, there is one beginner nursing class they can give me permission to take while I wait. Only one, and only with permission. Strict, strict, strict!

Anyway.. so far I'm doing well with my three 'ologies'. However, it's only been a month. I'll just keep working hard and pray it all works out for the best. I can always withdraw or retake if I think my GPA is compromised.

Thanks everyone for your support!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion