hwp1951

Where do I start? I worked for the VA for 7 years before I started going to get my BSN. The education director talked me into applying for funds even though I was reluctant because I just didn't trust that it was safe. I worked the entire 18 months I was completing my degree. Turns out I was right. I not only did not get my degree fully funded, they shorted me about $7000. I also became ill with 11 months to go on my so called committment I was assured that I would qualify for a waiver. So I blithely left to take care of my health and wrote the letter, provided the data from my doctor, provided insurance forms etc to prove that I really was ill. The result? Two years later I received a notice that I was not getting the waiver and that I owed the VA 17, 500 which constitutes interest and triple damages on the prorated amount of $5000. I contacted my senator who basically told me too bad so sad. Mary Raymer is a mouthpiece for a system that has no words to describe it, They hide behind their government mantle and talk about how great they really are. I'd love to get an attorney to fight this. I even offered to return to the VA now that I am well to put in my 11 months so the debt will be cancelled. I was told I was not able to be rehired even thought they wouldn't tell me way. Age? I'm 57; my history of illness, Perhaps. I tried going the EEO route and got no where. I'd join a class action in a heartbeat if it happens. I'd NEVER advise anyone to get into that crooked system.

I agree with the majority who think money might be more enticing. The other thing I would LOVE to see is a more participatory approach with mangement leading and asking staff for their thoughts AND actually paying attention to what they say. Too much lip service is given by administrators when it's us in the trenches who actually know what we need. Heck, we might even be willing to work with admin to get it if we thought it would happen.

Be very careful about this plan. I received assistance from the VA NNEI program and then becam ill 11 months before completing my commitment. They not only made me pay the money they gave me back, they TRIPLED the amount I owe in spite of doctor's statements and hospital bills. It'll take me years to pay this off. Your best bet is to try scholarships or grants or even loans and keep yourself obligated to no one. Some hospitals provide assistance after you graduate but you're also indentured to them. I really think this is a dicey plan.

I have been in this business 36 years. What we seem to have in nursing education right now is mills churning out "workers" rather than schools graduating practitioners. Pride in the profession has been replaced by the urgency to get bodies out there. I started out as a diploma grad and was ready to work from day 1. I got my BSN when the hospital where I worked mandated it. It was a wonderful, enriching experience which lost me my job when managed health care cut the position I was in. The point is that no one can take your education away from you. It is portable. Money is an issue but not the only one. Consistency of patient care should be the prime mover in what nursing becomes. I fear that I will be retired and the discussion will continue. What used to be fun is now just a tiresome job. I am not burned out, just wishing it could be different.