justrunfast985

The first semester is definitely the most challenging. All classes utilize blackboard and library access is provided and you will meet the librarian who will show you how to search databases at least 3 or 4 times. Almost everyone brings a laptop or at least prints up the ppts ahead of time. textbooks are available either in electronic format or a combination of both hardcover and electronic. Mon: Clinical Sim lab in the am or afternoon (usually 4 hours) i think like 8-12 and 1-5 ? its been a while..this is where basic nursing skills are taught..injections, IVs, etc. Tue: Clinical Sim lab in the am or afternoon Wed: return demonstration usually you are scheduled for a 45 minute time slot Thursday: Path/Pharm 8-12 and then another class 1-4 Friday: Path/Pharm 8-12 and then another class 1-3 After the first 8 weeks schedule is Mon: off Tue: Clinical 6:30-3:00 med surg floor Wed: clinical 6:30-3:00 med surg floor thurs: class friday: class that was at least the structure we had for the 1st semester...it might have changed.

GEP 2014, Congrats to all those that got in! With the removal of the FNP program for you all I am sure it was very competitive to be selected for the cohort. I saw a few threads back that some were wondering about employment upon graduation and the future elimination of the GEP program. As a part of the GEP 2012 class we have just finished the first 16 months and now are waiting to take the NCLEX and are in the process of applying for jobs. Though most of my time has been spent studying for NCLEX, I will comment that it is very difficult to even find a hospital that will accept applications without a BSN, regardless of your flexibility to work nights and willingness to travel. Magnet is a status that most hospitals are attempting to achieve and even the "smaller" suburban hospitals are being absorbed by larger health systems (which means a push for magnet). Perhaps it will be easier than I expect, but for those that also got into Rush, DePaul, or Loyola's program I would encourage them to perhaps consider attending these programs. The programs are more expensive but they are much less limiting and allow you the opportunity to work in hospital systems where you will have better options for networking and skill development as you continue on in your NP degree. In regards to the elimination of the GEP program, we have speculated that they are finding that this program is not a relevant as it was when it began....and from what some speculate it will become like Rush and DePaul's generalist nursing masters and not a direct entry to NP. Perhaps they realize that it just is not working. Many of us have finished this program frustrated with the way in which UIC handled our program and concerns. From people not having clinical placements until after the semester started, to poor clinical instructors, many have spent time wondering if this was the best program we could have invested in. With all that said, it is the quickest way to an NP degree at this point so it may be worth considering...and these comments are just from one person. I am sure there are many that loved the program..