ParaMolly

I was also in this position, and I chose the ADN program. Not only is it much cheaper (even when factoring in the cost to finish and get my BSN afterwards online, which I plan on doing), but this ADN program is an excellent program with a great reputation in the area. Their graduates actually have a better employment rate than the BSN graduates from the other program. Definitely poke around and talk to people at your local hospitals and medical facilities and see what the general opinions are of both the programs graduates.

Preparation is key! Some super common questions to prep for are (I was asked all of these in my interviews): Why do you want to be a nurse? What motivates you? Why do you think you're the right fit for this career?What is a trial or conflict you've overcome in your life? How did you handle it, and what did you learn about yourself?Why is this the right time in your life to pursue nursing? Why do you think you're ready for this?What are the most important qualities for a good leader? How have you demonstrated these in your life? How do you think this translates to nursing?Describe a time in your life where you stood out from the crowd. What motivated you to be different and stand up for what you believed in?Also, be sure to research the school you're interviewing for and prepare accordingly. One school I interviewed for was particularly big on diversity and they ended up having a 10 minute interview question just on that. Read up about the school's history, how it started, and do NOT underestimate the importance of understanding and remembering their mission statement. Weave that into your answers discreetly, show them that you were made for a school just like this one. I agree with what Krispy said as well - smile a lot, and also let them know if you don't understand the question. Communication skills are super important, and honestly probably one of the biggest things they're looking for, along with people skills. So practice your answers as much as possible, and when it comes time, pretend like the interviewer is someone you'd really like to become best friends with (I know it sounds weird, but that mindset helps me sometimes). Smile, listen attentively, and watch what you're doing with your hands. No fidgeting. Gesturing as you're talking is ok, even good, but it needs to look natural, not like a nervous behavior. As to having no medical experience, I was in the same boat and was offered a spot in 2 different nursing schools. It's not the crutch it's made out to be! If you have perfect grades (which you do, congrats!), an open friendly personality, and a teachable spirit, you'll be in good shape to get accepted. If that question comes up in the interview, don't focus on the fact that you don't have any direct experience. Instead, explain how the experience you DO have translates well into the medical field. In my case, that was experience in caregiving, customer service, teaching, and volunteering with people affected by disabilities.