Okapi

Thanks for the replies guys. Glad other people are doing this with success.

Ah! Thanks for clearing that up for me. Programs I'm looking into are ASN.

That sounds like a good plan to be honest. Get my ADN and work while completing my bachelor's online. Come to think of it, I know of someone else who did that as well. I love the atmosphere of the medical center, my mother (though not a nurse) used to work there when I was little at the Texas Children's Hospital, but honestly with the traffic and where I want to settle in at (Cypress or Katy area) in a year or two, I don't think me working there would be smart. I'm not a fan of two hour commutes due to traffic. Hopefully, when the time comes around, me being a ADN while pursuing my bachelors would look good for finding a job as well. Oops, I've always referred to it as a BDN. Is there a more proper term for it?

Unsurprisingly, there are more schools offering Associates degrees in nurses versus Bachelors. They are also easier to get into. So my thought was, if I don't get into a BDN program straight off, I can go to school to get my associates and RN license (hopefully), and then instead of searching for a job, go straight into a BDN program. Can this work? Has anyone done this? I live in Houston and I'm sure BDN programs are highly competitive. I'm switching from a computer major (and have not done so well) so feel like I'm not as... academically competitive as a lot of others? I regret trying to get into computers. Thought it would be a good idea because technology has a good job market, but my grades aren't so hot. If I don't enjoy something, I don't do too great in it. My highest grades are unsurprisingly in Biology and Psychology. Lowest in Math and Computer-based courses. Before I started this major I wanted to be a RN but was too chicken... should have just stuck with the plan! Would love some advice. And also an extra question... if my grades for the required pre-reqs for a nursing program are good (A's/B's) but my overall GPA thanks to computer courses and math isn't too great... could this hurt my chances? Do they only consider your pre reqs or all courses taken? Thanks!

I'm sure it depends on the individual and the school program, so I'm curious! How much free time do you find yourself having? In other words, how much time do you have when you're NOT actually in school or working in the clinic? Do you spend the time studying? Working a side job? I'm in the military and want to go to nursing school afterward, but I'm also wanting to spend time in the hobby I love, horseback riding. Both horses and school need a lot of time however!

Thanks everyone! I like the atmosphere of TMC, but actually it's a good 45mins+ from where my home in Houston is. But I can certainly see how it can be difficult for new grads out there. I don't see myself going for a BSN... at least not immediatly. I think I would start as an ADN then go back to school later...

Because of the massive medical center in Houston, I'm hoping that it won't be too difficult or long to find a job there if/when I pursue a degree in nursing. Now, I still have two years left in the army then another two in nursing school. So I still have another 4 years... but am a bit concerned all the same! Houstonians: how is the job market for nurses (especially new grads) out there?

Thanks westieluv! The things you mention and post-op I could deal with fine. As you said, it's probably the emotion that goes with trauma that would get to me. And who knows, maybe something with click and I'll be able to tolerate ER in the future. But for now I'll stick with the plan and research nursing more. :)

Thanks for the reply jadelpn! I'll look those things up. Unfortunately I doubt I'll be able to switch army careers at this point, however I spoke to a friend who is an army nurse. She said she's almost positive I'll get over what I'm feeling now. She was also squeamish at first.

Hello, this is my first post but I also had a question... so hopefully this is the correct section! I apologize in advance for a wall of text... I am currently in the Army working in information technology for the next two years. Love the Army but I am eager to get back to civilian life. What I'm going to do when I get out has been an ongoing concern for me, and I HATE computers and such so I am seeking outside that field. Most careers do not interest me. I do a little research and get turned off for one reason or another. But I'm quite fond of the idea of being a nurse! I am from Houston and love the atmosphere of the medical center. Nurses seem to have a rewarding job with good pay and hours. I am also a horseback rider so seek a career that can allow me a chance to have my own life! There is one thing that bothers me though. I do not like to see severe trauma. I'm ok with drawing blood and a little bleeding, but anything even gorey (I'm talking severed limbs, traumatic fatalities, and guts) I am NOT ok with. I hope this isn't a dumb question but... is it possible to avoid this as a nurse? Obviously ER and trauma isn't my cup of tea but I would be ok working in some areas of the hospital and regular clinics. I also fear that there will be a time in school I have to train through these types of things. Oh, maybe I just need to suck it up. Is there any hope for me?