Instead of being upset that a LVN/LPN may make more than you, perhaps you should move from your economically depressed area! You are correct, with your credentials you should be making at least half again as much for starting out. Check out some other areas to practice in! As for LVN/LPN pay, take what they offer to get your feet wet! Nursing is a great career, and regardless of the licensure, it is a field that needs more people working in it that care and want to be there! Keep your chin up, go to school.:)