rainydaydream

It sounds like they don't use cats at BCC, but even if they did, I really doubt they'd actually be breeding cats specifically for dissection. Look how many cats animal shelters put down every year; I always imagined this is where the cats used in dissection labs came from.

What about Western Governors University? I've heard excellent things about their programs (not specifically nursing), and they're mostly online. http://www.wgu.edu/online_health_professions_degrees/bachelor_science_nursing They offer RN->BSN (fully online), they're accredited and affordable as well. I'm imagine WGU would be considered favorably compared to University of Phoenix (which many do consider a degree mill to some extent - not to offend those who have graduated from UP; I am not intimately familiar with their program).

I'd recommend working on the biology before the nursing as you might not be able to do both at the same time due to the strange ways nursing schools often schedule classes. Another reason for this is that you may not be allowed to sit for the NCLEX until graduation, so finishing up all your nursing classes right before graduation would be best. Additionally, after graduation you will probably not qualify for financial aid other than loans - so make your first degree(s) count!

(At least in Minnesota) I believe there is a requirement of at least a BSN to earn a public health nursing certification. You might look into MSN programs or accelerated BSNs, too...

People tell you these things not to discount your fears, but because it's true -- you *do* have time. You are lucky to be focused at a young age! It is definitely a blessing, not a curse. I'm sure you can make graduate school happen if you want it badly enough. It's a matter of persistence. If you have the persistence and can make the time to pull off the required grades and study hard, you'll get there. Don't worry about getting in; focus on doing your best right here, right now. You've already got a plan, so go for it!

"I know from my own HR dept at one of the major hospital systems in town that we are in a silent hiring freeze - I say silent because the jobs are posted and they are accepting applications but they aren't actually hiring anyone for the jobs as it's being filled by part timers who are job sharing or accepting full time. I don't believe we're the only system doing it." I've heard of other places doing this, but I still can't figure out what the benefit for the system is to post these jobs and not hire for them. Any ideas?

I would bet you might have better luck in Bellingham, as there are no BSN programs based up there. St. Joseph's is the big hospital up there. I don't think a Canadian BSN would be a problem so long as you pass the NCLEX. (don't quote me on this; it's not from nursing experience, just experience living in the area)

I would train where you want to live. The posters above gave good reasons, but it also seems less than ethical to receive a free education in nursing with no intention of using it in that country...

Micro at Seattle Central totally kicks butt, actually. Highly recommended; great teacher.

I'd apply to the school located where you want to live after graduation. You might meet other nurses at local hospitals during clinicals and this might help you in your job search later on. It would also help if you needed references I'd imagine.

There are many 2 year programs in Seattle. Shorelines, Seattle Central, North Seattle (I think), etc. If you're willing to go across the bridge there are even more program on the Eastside. Yes, applying to programs takes time and money and classes. It's not super simple, but it's not that hard either. You definitely don't have to be a CNA to apply, but I'm sure it wouldn't hurt either (it might be nice since our job market sucks right now, too). You might even think about 2nd bachelor's programs. I'm pretty sure UW has a new one.

Our school gives them to all students in the health programs free of charge.

Look for a low-income clinic in your area -- I know there's one where I live that is run solely by volunteers, including nurses, doctors and dentists. Sometimes the Salvation Army runs these types of clinics. This might be a good way to keep at least some of your skills up.

Microbiology was one of the coolest, most interesting classes I've ever taken! Be sure to study a lot. Read all of the book information, make sure you understand it, and understand how what you learn in class applies to labs. I took photos of all my lab work which really helped me study for lab exams.

I don't think most accelerated programs require direct patient care experience, but most require stellar grades in your prerequisites and maybe some volunteer experience. Have you looked at the prerequisites yet for schools?