bilgerama

I'm in the ACE program now, to graduate 1st week of September. If don't have the time to devote yourself COMPLETELY to this program, don't do it! It is too expensive and too time consuming. A lot of our classmates do the program with small kids at home, but they get A LOT of help from family and friends. Just remember that it is very difficult program and a good percentage drop out or fail out by the end (failing meaning you get less than a 76% or 85% in senior seminar). Just be prepared to be the most stressed out you have EVER been. But a positive note is that it is a very quick program. I can't believe I'm almost done! I'd recommend this program only if you are ready to make it your 4th child (your FAVORITE child) for a whole year. As for your questions, you can miss days if you are super smart and can make up the material. IT IS A LOT OF MATERIAL EVERYDAY. Our days are 8 hour two or three days per week of class (4-6 classes every ten weeks) and 6 hour clinical days (morning or evening) two or three times per week (including Saturday). That's five days total you are spending in school and two days "off" you will spend studing your butt off. You cannot pick where you go. The hospital can be up to 1.5 hours away in Philadelphia, NJ, Bucks, Montgomery, or CHester counties. You cannot argue where you get placed or if you get a morning versus evening clinical. You can miss 1 clinical day; after that 1 clinical day if you miss a day you must pay $400 extra for each day missed. All clinical days must be made up during your break week between terms so don't miss a day unless you don't need a vacation. Our schedule is very set, very permanent. Total you will be in class/clinical about 35-40 hours per week. Seriously. It's like a job. That doesn't include studying or travel time. I have enjoyed the program so far and have met some of my best friends! But don't be fooled into doing the program just because it has a short time frame. Consider how much time you are willing to give up spending with your family, how much you are willing to sacrifice (you can't work during the program. it's impossible!), and how much stress you can handle. I've learned a lot, but I have to warn you before you jump into something you won't be able to finish!