willacatheter

I want to get into nursing. But I have a long, long, long, long way to go. I don't have my BA/BS yet; I've flunked out of a couple of schools a few years back. I failed--not from lack of intellect, but a combination of immaturity, not having a support system, and an undiagnosed learning disability. Now I'm (slightly) more mature , have a great support system, and a diagnosis and I've learned coping skills for my disability. I'm ready for a change and I've (happily) quit a soul-sucking job recently. But I know that I have a lot of work to do to show myself (and hopefully--eventually--a nursing program) that I can succeed academically. My GPA is a huge mess. So, my question is, where to start? Volunteer somewhere? But where? Do a CNA or MA program? I've seen a lot of conflicting information as to what the difference is, even on here. Can anyone shed light? Apply/complete an ADN program Degree completion program like the Dix Scholars Program at Simmons. I think I have to do this just to earn my non-nursing BA/BS and to offset my negative GPA, and this is if I can even get into a program like that in the first place. Apply for a BSN program. I don't think that I have what it takes to get directly into a nursing major from any degree completion program as I've 'attempted' some of the nursing prereqs too many times before. Unless previous withdrawals (magically) don't count? Be a nurse?! Go to more school? Maybe I shouldn't get ahead of myself. I guess what I'm asking is, what should I do to get my feet wet? I know I can just call up any admissions office and ask, and I know you are not a admissions counselor, but I'd love to hear it from people who've done it first hand. What are some 'little wins' I can get under my belt to keep myself going? What helped you? What would you do differently if you could/had to start the admissions process again? What are you doing now? By the way, I'm in Newton, and I'd love ideas/tips from people who know of any good programs or volunteering or shadowing opportunities nearby. Thanks in advance for your advice and ideas. Oh, and a big congrats to those of you who've gotten into programs already! Sincerely, WC