blynksLPN2RN

I am a student in the first cohort of ITT's ADN program in Portland Oregon. I have the advantage of having been an LPN for more than a few years before entering this program. I find many of the courses challenging, and have learned a few things along the way that I did not previously know, or fully understand. I am not going to sugar coat anything, this program isn't "easy". I am fortunate to already have a background, otherwise I would struggle in this program. I work full-time and have a big family to care for. Any other nursing program would demand I be in a classroom or clinical setting 5 days per week. I am able to work, attend class and clinical, and still be a mother to my children; (that in itself is priceless!)while maintaining a 3.96 GPA. We just finished up at a local clinical site and were told by all of the staff (including the nurses), that we were the best group of students they had ever seen come through their facility. I think as a practicing nurse that has had groups of students come through hospitals and facilities that I have worked for from programs like Linnfield, PCC etc. This was a huge compliment. I would like to add a comment to anyone out there that is looking for a nursing program. It is not the program that makes the nurse. Each student takes what is offered from their program and applies it to their practice. I may take something totally different from this program than any other student in my cohort. I determine what kind of nurse I am. I improve on my practice by broadening my horizons by way of educating myself. Best wishes to all who are trying to decide what will work best for them. I too was at the same crossroads, and I now feel I made the decision that was best for me and my entire family.