jentl2002

Oh you will get some responses here... I hesitated to even post my question because of all the hate people have gotten on other questions when they mention direct entry. You're right - just a loan/economics question really! I WISH I had an all expense paid ride!

Not sure about the attitude here... but I had a question about debt and got my question answered. Thanks.

Thanks for your input. We looked at rings ? Should be coming soon. That being said, I can do it on my own if I had to.

Thank you for your input! I knew posting here that I'd get a lot of opinions about the length of the program, as there's lots of thoughts about direct entry. Really just looking for ideas on the finances, so I thank you. When I do the calculations you mentioned with my numbers, there's no question what the right path is. Are you PMHNP too? I'm so excited to get to know the other prespecialty students in the fall!

Thank you. I am understanding this is a very rigorous program. I do feel well-connected to the field. I've talked to several people who have gone through the same program in two years and agree it's intense but they all had positive experiences. I'm also not opposed to 3 years if that's what pans out. I'm in a lucky situation where I do have a job lined up after I graduate, no matter when that is, with a company I've worked for for 9 years. I've spoken at length to many PMHNPs in my city and state, in my company and in others, and understand there continues to be a great need in my area. That being said, I'm nervous! Change is scary. My financial advisor calmed some of my nerves. I'm in awe of the profession and am so excited to learn! Thanks for responding.

because when I posted it I had not made a decision yet.

Hello, for anyone who has completed the prespecialty program at Vanderbilt (for direct entry), could you help me understand what a typical schedule looked like for you? Maybe a week as well? And how did you spend your weekends? Thanks!

I’ve been accepted and will attend, so I have all the information. It’s a 24 month program and I’ll be moving to Tennessee. I have scholarships and loans for the tuition and living expenses, although my boyfriend will be paying for most living expenses while we’re there. I’m happy with my decision!

Hi thanks for your reply! Vanderbilt's program is a direct entry MSN, meaning you don't earn a BSN but after year 1 you take your NCLEX and after year 2 you take your pmhnp boards. So 2 years total!

Would you go into 160k of student loan debt for a 2 year pmhnp program in order to start earning NP salary of 200k more quickly? Or would you take a longer rout (BSN then MSN) and take 5 years to complete school before earning potential of 200k? Please be kind... I know direct entry programs are frowned upon sometimes. I am only asking about student loan aspect here. 200k earning potential comes from a job offer I've already received at my current company for whenever I finish school. I'm currently a social worker and have worked in psych hospitals for many years. The question is, short but expensive to earn more sooner, or long but cheaper to spend less on school? Thank you for your thoughts!

Congrats to everyone! I'm apprehensive about going into this much debt... PMHNP focus. 160k is very scary to me! Anyone else feel the same?

I got in to PMHNP!

I agree, confusing. I will say, several of us for pre-specialty said when they spoke to admissions they were told we would hear before the holidays (including me). I really really really don't think they would say that if they were not totally sure that would be their timeline. Fingers crossed!

Not to worry. I emailed them directly about another topic regarding a prerequisite and then I followed up by asking about timeline. So I asked them directly. I, too, have not heard anything since my October application submission until I asked my question. So I think we’re in the same boat! Good luck!

I have an email from admissions stating “At the latest, you will hear back in February, but we are trying to push out decisions before the holidays in December.” So hopefully they’re able to get through them all by the holidays!