YoungGun

Some basic non-nursing advice on the city of Vancouver: I am a Canadian citizen born in Ontario and raised all over the US (east coast, south, midwest, etc.) Depending on the lifestyle you lead, Vancouver can be a bit of a disappointment. I moved here most recently from a city just outside New York. I am by no means a "big city person," nor am I preferential to the country. The basic facts that I've learned about Vancouver in the 6 months I've lived here (through 3 seasons) are: 1. It is almost always overcast. This may not be a problem for you as I thought it was not for me, howeer upon getting here I became extremely depressed and anxious. Today, in the middle of June, it's sunny and about 20 degrees C. However it was overcast for 5 days straight before this. 2. The city is not multi-cultural. The main cultures here are European/Caucasian and Asian cultures. There is a small percentage of Middle Eastern population and Native/Aboriginal peoples and an extremely small amount of African/Carribean descent (compared to other US/European cities.) This is also by no means a bad thing, it's just not as diverse as some say. 3. Vancouver is not a "cosmopolitan" city. Again, if you prefer a laid back, earthy vibe, not a problem. However, the city lacks great dining, social scene, and general "high-end"ness. It's a chill out place where fashion, prestige, and social advancement are not the main values. 4. It doesn't look like it does in pictures. The mountains are gorgeous as are some of the city buildings however most of the buildings are 60's/70's era grey concrete. There are also a considerable amount of, for lack of a better word, crazy homeless people, especially downtown and in the West End. Infact you will probably find that a lot of people here are slightly "off." Connected with the Earth, yes. Connected with reality, not so much. All in all I am just giving facts about the reality of Vancouver. Do some considerable research on forums and such before coming here. The tourist/city websites don't tell of the the people. Thanks and Good Luck!

Hello Everyone, Thanks for reading. After a few years bouncing around being a chef, I have decided to pursue medicine because I genuinely want to help people. My mother is a 32 year veteran RN and traveler and I'm inspired by her knowledge, caring, ability, and dedication. Here's my situation as I decide on schooling: I am a Canadian citizen born in Ontario and raised all over the US (due to my mother's job.) After researching, my short term goal is either an ADN or BSN in nursing with which I intend to travel and learn, and then go on to pursue either a NP or PA degree (or both). From what I understand, a BSN is required at minimum as well as considerable experience in order to pursue these fields. I would like to develop my knowledge base to it's fullest extent before entering into further education. I hold no current degrees. I also am wary of getting ahead of myself, so the decision between ADN and BSN is key right now. From what I've researched, Canada has phased out the ADN (or diploma equivalent in Canada) and now requires the 4-year BSN for all new nurses. The US (or most states within) does not. I've read the forums regarding ADN/BSN and understand that an ADN is valuable and defininetly acceptable to become employed in the field. Either way, I will get my BSN eventually. However, would anyone recommend getting my ADN, working while I study for the BSN, and travelling once I have enough experience? This would require me getting a student Visa in the US with which my working capabilities would be limited. However, I would gain two years of experience and salary versus working for a BSN here. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much! YoungGun