utmemsrna

The program isn't self taught, and I can think of nothing negative to say about it. They are very professional, and I am completely satifisfied.

I got my ADN and BSN through Excelsior and got in at the only school I applied on the first try.

The hsopital I work at will provide a stipend while you go to school if you agree to work for a certain amount of time. It is about 1000 -1100 dollars a month and is taxed. I am not sure it is worth it in the long run, because it removes control from you and puts it in their hands. Many places offer sign on bonuses or tuition reimbursement. As for me, I would rather be able to negotiate salary and benefits on my own terms than be held by a contract. Just my opinion. And no, I won't accept the stipend.

I think it is great that you are so enthusiastic about the CRNA profession. While it is true that money shouldn't be your main focus, anyone who says it isn't a factor isn't being completely honest. Research the profession as much as you can and put your nose to the grindstone. If this is what you really want, don't let anyone deter you.

Not much to tell, paramedic for 10 years, went back to school for RN, icu nurse for five years, then back for bsn. When I applied, I was not very optimistic considering my overall gpa, but I believe most programs take a person's entire situation into account. I only applied to the one program, but I was very impressed with everyone and everything. On the day I interviewed, the other applicans I met were from all over the country, Idaho, Michigan, Alabama, Illinois, and Georgia. It was a bit overwhelming. I can only say that if this is your dream, find out as much as you can about crnas and get to know the people involved with the program. Good luck.

Most schools look at the candidate as a whole, not just a bunch of numbers. For example, I only had a 3.0, but had a lot of experience, and all of my recent course work had been very good. Also, if you get an interview, it will then mostly come down to how you present yourself. There is alot of good information on this site, but don't believe you have to have a 4.0 to get into a school, although it couldn't hurt. I am going to UT Memphis.

Congratulations, and I look forward to meeting you in July. My last e-mail from UT said they were going to send out a list of new CRNA students soon, but I haven't received it yet. I can't tell you how excited I am about UT. I agree with everything you said about the program.

Most schools require you to be through with your BSN coursework prior to the application deadline, being as how the programs are so competetive.

Just for one example, UT Memphis' application deadline is September 1, interviews are the same month, with decisions by the end of September. The classes themselves do not start until July of the next year. It is best to apply when you first become eligible as the program is extremely competetive and most do not get in on their first try. Good luck.

Another thing to remember, since I am not familiar with Chamberlain, make sure they are NLNAC approved. Most colleges require this for entrance into their masters programs.

I did amy adn and bsn at Excelsior college and they don't give references. I just explained that when I sent in my application, and it wasn't a problem. Also, the classes you failed will probably always be on your transcript, when UT Memphis tallies your gpa, they include all grades, even in the same courses. By retaking them, you show dedication and perserverance, as well as academic ability. So go ahead and take them anywhere, but just know that it will hurt your gpa. Good luck to you, hope you make it.

UT Memphis has already selected for the 2008 class, and the deadline for application for the 2009 class is september 1, 2008. I don't know why they choose so early. The important thing to know about UT Mem is that the 2008 class will be the last MSN CRNA program they have. After that, it will be a DNP program lasting 4-5 years. A pretty big commitment.

I don't start at UT until July, but I can't wait. The person I mentioned just got back from her UT Chat-Tupelo interview an said they asked the usual personal questions as well as some clinical questions. When I interviewed at UT Memphis, everyone was great. The instructors and first years were very friendly and helpful. I can't say enough about it.

While interviewing for UT Memphis, I met a first year who used to work at NMMC, he spoke pretty badly about the program, saying they used students for scut work. Even though he worked there, he didn't even apply. I also heard the same thing from another CRNA who used to be involved with the program. Also, they say the clinical part of the experience is very limited. However, take this with a grain of salt, as this is second hand info.