Oakrad510

That's a tough one because I feel like other schools do a better job at that. I know individuals in other private and community college programs that are getting much more exposure than we are. Also, many new grad programs are specifically requesting letters of recommendation from preceptors and we're all struggling with where to get that since we won't have a preceptorship. As of right now, they're telling us that our clinical instructor can sign off but that also doesn't feel right since they aren't our preceptor.

Hi, I'm currently in the ABSN program and work full time. I also have a great work schedule and they are super flexible. Most classes were onsite and I specifically requested clinicals on either weekends or evenings. Otherwise, you can expect to be on campus or have clinicals 2-4 times during the week. They do try to have lectures on the same day if you're taking two classes so that helps.

Congratulations! I'll be honestly my experience at SMU hasn't been the best. If I had other options for nursing school, I likely would have chosen a different path especially with the cost of the program. That said, the Oakland campus has stronger faculty compared to San Mateo. There's one professor in particular who truly stood out, delivering great instruction. Clinical placements have been a mixed bag. While some students had great opportunities, others weren't as fortunate. For pediatrics, about half of us had placements that weren't ideal, with limited hospital exposure just once a week, and often at facilities that weren't specialized in pediatrics. Also, the placements sometimes make no sense with some people who live further away being placed at ridiculous far sites when others live closer. Additionally, the program has eliminated preceptorships, replacing them with group clinical placements. Most students will likely be assigned to med-surg units rather than specialized areas. It's disappointing, especially considering the significant cost of this program. To everyone who goes to SMU, make sure you advocate for yourself and stay focused.

Hi all, I'm a current student in the ABSN Program. Let me know if you have any questions. I'm more than happy to help.