LavaGirl

I gave birth to my 4th baby 3 months after I started my NA program (front-loaded, not in full-time clinicals yet at that time). He was 36 weeks (premature) and I had a C-section. I was back to class 1 week after I gave birth, by choice, because I did not want to be behind in school work. Besides, my baby was in the NICU for about 2 weeks and I had to go there everyday anyway (same hospital as my school). I just went ahead and didn't skip a beat in attending classes, taking exams, giving presentations, and writing papers, in between taking care of my newborn ---and I did well, if I may say so myself. It was a big blessing that we had a few weeks of Christmas break afterwards. It is also a big help that I have a very supportive husband (he took 2 weeks paternity leave and drove for me to and from school) and mother (who stays with us and helps us with so many things). My point is, it is very doable, and I want you not to be discouraged. My baby is my greatest source of joy, especially after a hard day in the OR. Things would fall into place for you, don't worry. Believe that you can make it work and be positive about it. God will surely make things possible for you. Good luck!

I bought an HP TX2000 (tablet PC), for about $1200. I'm still trying to learn what I can do with it. The ability to take down notes (including video and audio), organize files/pull files together from various documents, hand-write on it, etc. look very convenient for schooling. My hubby (who's got computer background) thinks it has good specs for what it's worth. He says Dell tends to be expensive for what it offers. I heard from current students that it's not really necessary to have one, but I guess it could make my school life a little easier to use one anyway. It'll serve as my notebook/organizer/computer in one. Check out reviews of PCs in the internet.

Aim for a high GRE score (at least 1000). Some schools require specific persons for recommendations (in my case: from current nurse manager, ICU consultant, and university reference). My guess is that a good recommendation from a notable physician would be better than getting more recommendation from other nurses. Choose the doctor who would sing you praises... Your credentials should merit you at least an interview. Then...you have to ace the interview, meaning you should fit the profile that the school is looking for. Not too overconfident, but competent and pleasant. Make your clinical experience shine...in my opinion one gains so much more from actual years of experience than from certifications although the latter should also help make you a better nurse... There is destiny too to contend with...but I guess if you work and pray hard enough for anything you'll get it, if not better... Good luck!