mlajoy

I have a friend who did their program (I think the split option) and she speaks very highly of it. I am getting ready to send off my application and materials for their distance learning option, but obviously can't comment on it...yet =)) It'll be interesting to read what others who've completed all and/or portions of it have to say.

You have probably found an answer to your question at this point, but to briefly respond to your post: - Yes, ANCC does include theory, but IMO it's not something that isn't doable (I took my exam through ANCC) - I did not take AANP, but have heard from those that did take it that it is definitely "more clinically focused" than ANCC (exactly what that means I cannot say since I did not test w/them) - As far as being denied a job because you chose to test w/XYZ as opposed to QRS - that should not be a problem since most states/organizations/practices will accept both (it's very unheard of in most cases that you should run into issues w/that; that's not to say that it hasn't happened to someone...I just wouldn't worry too much about this) Hope I was of a lil help to you. Good luck in whatever certifying body you choose!!!

luvemrare - I am not able to answer your specific question, but have you tried talking to your ACNP faculty about your concerns? Also, try doing an NP job search for your area to see what kind of jobs are out there (esp. for the ACNP specialty) and if there is more opportunity in a specific area/specialty. I am not sure how close you are to finishing, but the area job search may help alleviate some concern...maybe =)) Good luck to you!

Unfortunately, that is a question that depends on the individual I graduated 5/24/10 and sat for the boards on 7/31/10. I was that individual who insisted on a well deserved vacation before I even began to pick up a book to start studying/refreshing. I took roughly 2 1/2 - 3 weeks before my exam to get through the Fitzgerald stuff (CDs & book) You know yourself best, so the most appropriate advise is to do what feels best for YOU and you should be fine Best of luck!

Hey there folks! So glad to hear all the good news about people passing their exams whether it be ANCC or AANP (I just passed ANCC last weekend for ANP...yay!!!) Those of you who are re-testing or have yet to test I wish you all the best of luck - don't overdo-it, don't over-think it, just relax, and keep positive thoughts. I am not sure how many are aware of this at this point, but I was just perusing through the ANCC website (the things I do when I get bored ) and noticed their recently published letter regarding reciprocity (dtd 8/3/2010) Please know that reciprocity will NOT be granted after 12/31/2010 for individuals certified by other certifying organizations like AANP, etc. I have no earthly idea why the change of heart, but it is. December is still some ways away, but I wanted to put this out there for those who plan on getting reciprocity from ANCC. Also, ANCC will be discontinuing their Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Alternative Eligibility certification. I hope these links work: - Notice Regarding Reciprocity (http://www.nursecredentialing.org/Certification/2010-ReciprocityNotice.aspx) - Notice Regarding Discontinuation of Gerontological Nurse Practitioner Alternative Eligibility (http://www.nursecredentialing.org/Certification/2010-GeroAltEligibilityNotice.aspx) Take care all, ~Mee

BBFRN you are awesome! Thanks for all the info and suggestions! I am hoping that I can make some contacts w/some of the places you named. Since I will be a new grad I can only pray that I end up in a place that is supportive and encouraging of its newbies! Are these good places for RNs to work as well, since I may have to work in that capacity until I find something good

BBFRN, thanks for replying to my post! I was getting a lil discouraged. My specialty will be Adult and Geriatric primary care. I am hoping to connect with folks in the area that can share info that I may need and give me insight on what ARNP practice is like in KY. I know you said that you aren't an ARNP and that's quite alright! Even info on working as an RN in the state would help. I have not the slightest clue where I should be looking for work (even though this current economy makes it hard for anyone to be picky ) I just don't know how I should start networking at this point (graduation is in May, but I figured better early rather than later on getting the ball rolling...) Thanks so much in advance for any info you can provide

Anyone?

I am looking for any KY ARNP on this forum (specifically in Louisville). I am currently finishing up my last specialty year for my MSN and will graduate in May 2010. We will 90% likely be moving to KY (Louisville) when I am finished. I have not the slightest idea where to begin making connections/contacts on successful transition (I am currently in Connecticut) and would like to hear from those currently practicing in this state and/or city. Any info/advice would be GREATLY appreciated Thanks!

boy oh boy...I am finishing up the last year of my graduate entry program, but sat for the NCLEX-RN May 19 '09 (passed...thank God!) and found a job in the last week of June '09 (in my case it was all about 'who' you know!!! )

Hey there! I am a mom currently going through nursing school full-time. I began a graduate entry program in 2007, took my NCLEX this past May and passed (yea!!!) and am now working part-time as an RN. I have one year left to complete in my master's specialty year and expect to graduate in May 2010. I came into my program pregnant, had my child at the start of the 2nd semester (2008) and was back to clinical 6 days later Many may frown upon this, but I was quite determined to finish w/o having to take any leave of absence. Many ppl asked me how I could do this, but I had lots of support from my classmates. My family support is on the west coast (I am currently on the east coast) but I was able to get a few members to come out for weeks at a time in rotations while she was still very young and could not be in daycare. I have only one, and I know you have 2 under the age of 3, so it's going to take a bit more strategic planning and coordination, but I do not believe it is impossible. The main advice I can give is to take one day at a time. That's all you can do. And never be to prideful to ask for help when needed, any kind of help (personal, financial, academic, etc). I feel like I am a great mother that has had to make a short-term sacrifice for a long-term rewarding and successful career as an RN/APRN. I know that at times it hurts having to always take my lil one to daycare, but I look at it like this: I spend more time w/her now than I would if I were to have a Mon-Fri 9a to 5p job. Being a student mom (at least for me) has given me the student 'flexibility' in terms of schedule. I also always look forward to the long breaks & vacations that are built into the academic year Good luck in whatever you decide to do! I know it's cliche', but: if you put your mind to it, you can do it!!!

I am in an NP program that allows one to study both ANP & GNP at the same time. Points made thus far are valid and well taken, but let's face it...there are many things out there our older population face that need preparation for management (e.g. Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's, etc.); even the presentation of certain diseases (both physical and mental) are much more different than in "adults". I personally believe that because many feel as though the geriatric population is included in the "adult" population then just obtaining an ANP should be suffice. That is an unfortunate mindset IMO. There are not many geriatricians/GNPs out there because if we are going to be honest with ourselves, it is not typically appealing to people (regardless of one's states' recognition or not) Why??? That is for an individual to decide. Ultimately, being able to see the 65+ population is one thing, but being able to competently/effectively treat them is another.

Hi there! Please keep in mind that Yale (as with many other schools) looks at the entire package. I am a current student (used to be on the FNP track, but switched to Adult/Geriatrics...absolutely love it!!!). Just do your best in everything...YOU are a make up of your grades, extracurriculars/activities, professional/academic experiences, GRE scores, etc...one does not weigh more than the other. My GPA was just above a 3.0; my GRE scores were just 'ok'; and I had very meaningful academic & professional experiences. Always attempt your personal best and that will never steer you wrong! Best of luck to you all!!! ~Mee