kobrien629

I'm not sure how much and LPN makes, but I lived in Maine for over 3 years during my undergrad. I'm originally from the Boston area, so to me, renting in Maine is much cheaper. I think it really depends on where you want to be. I lived in the greater Portland area and had a 3 bedroom 2 bath house on Lake Sebago for $1000/month. If you do some research I'm sure you could find a good deal where ever you are looking!!

I've been working as a PCA for over a year, but that is all the healthcare experience I currently have. How about you? I also plan to work as a CNA or some type of tech during the first summer. I really hope to use the summers as a way to gain a lot of experience in the field!

julie & npnico - I am also attending MGH in the Fall! What tracks have you chosen? I'm in peds & and I am thrilled with the faculty and staff at the school. They have been helpful since day 1 and I cannot wait to start there! On another note.. I seem to be the only one who really likes the summers off. To me, having that break would make it easier for me... having something to work for and knowing that I would have a few months off to myself! Just something to consider for those still on the fence!

I agree, I wish all the school were on the same page and would let us know before we start sending deposits out everywhere. Hopefully you'll hear from Simmons soon! But you got into Umass, and that is awesome! =)

hey caroline, My letter from Simmons was dated March 10th, and I received it the 12th (I live right outside Boston). I was also surprised because I was told to expect to hear in April. I actually applied to BC, MGH, Simmons, and NEU in mid-October. Since BC was due so early I finished them all at once. I have not called them. I have received a few emails acknowledging that they received my application and my FAFSA. I wouldn't say that you didn't get in. They probably just don't let people know over the phone. If you don't hear from Simmons in a few weeks, then I would call again and ask about your status. As for your deposit that is due Tuesday... If you are 100% unsure where you want to go, I would send the deposit in. Simmons doesn't require their $500 deposit until April 3rd. I know that sending money to another school (even if you're unsure) seems kind or ridiculous (especially in this economy) but in the long run it will be worth it. I ended up sending in my deposit to Regis, and I'm pretty sure I won't be attending. What's $500 when these school are close to $50k a year?! Another note about Simmons... These acceptances are for SUMMER 09. I didn't realize it all started to soon. The summer courses are mostlu pre-reqs for those who haven't finished yet, but all students are required to take a nursing course (something simple like nursing theory I believe). But the classes start "either late June or early July". I laughed when I read this.. it's kind of funny that they don't have the starting date. This kind of makes it difficult for me, as I work in the public schools through the end of June. Sooo, thats my nice little rant. Hope I gave some useful info. Let me know if I can help with any thing else!! =)

Oh wow, I didn't realize Regis was so late. Thanks for the info. I'm expecting to hear from MGH in a few days.. along with Simmons. They emphasized how important it was to send in the info so that awards could be mailed out before any deposits were due!

no, mgh is my top choice. it's basically coming down to the money right now... i'm waiting to get my financial aid packages from mgh, regis, and simmons. but mgh's deposit is due next week so i guess i better make a decision soon!

congrats Jennifer! I'm sure that you will LOVE it at Regis... it is a very nice school. I don't remember if you had applied to Simmons or not, but I got my acceptance in the mail yesterday. If you did apply, hopfully you'll be hearing soon! Again... CONGRATS!! =)

Yeah, I thought we'd be hearing by now...

Just be yourself. They ask the general why advanced nursing? and why Regis? You'll be fine! Let us know how it turns out!

Jennifer, My application process at Regis was ridiculously quick. I waited to send in the app in December (because I didn't want early decision, even though they put me in it). I think I mailed the application on a Monday, got a call from the school on Wednesday, had an interview the next Thursday, and the acceptance came on Saturday. So for me it was less than 2 weeks. I was told that Regis interviews all applicants, but I do not know how true that is. I encourage you to apply as soon as possible, schecule and interview, and have any financial aid info/questions ready! GOOD LUCK! =)

Jack, Do you have any other info on your CNA course? The website you suggested had phone numbers to numerous nursing homes. I also am from the South Shore and will be starting a nursing program soon. Did you simply call a one of the nursing homes and explain your situation? Any info would help. I know that I would love to get a head start on gaining more experience before Sept! Thanks!

When I was at NEU last week, I was told that the last "bunch" of interviews was the weekend of 21/22 and that a week or two after that the acceptance letters would be sent out. So I'm guessing we'll be hearing sometime by next week?? Hope this helps!!

For neonatal, the specialy course is a year full time. But they only offer it every other year so it needs to be timed right... I applied in October, and didn't get a call till last week.

Just had my interview with Northeastern. I was surprised to find out that you have to work in a NICU for three years before you are even allowed to start the specialty portion of the Masters for Neonatal NP. I was a little disappointed that I hadn't heard of that until the interview! Good luck to all with interviews coming up! =)