Amygdala18

When I first went back to college for my degree in Biology I placed into Algebra I when I took my math placement exam. I had to take Algebra I, II, and Intermediate Algebra just to get to college level. From there, I took Precalc., Calc. I, and Calc. II. I needed Calc. only to take physics. Calc. I have never used outside of physics (except for trig.). But for simple conversions (you have 1 gram of substance:calc. a 3 Molar solution, for ex.) Algebra comes in handy.

Hi, First, all algebra teaches you is how to manipulate equations. The concepts are not too in depth, it just shows you over and over how to change equations around without changing their value. Actually, I use my algebra from time to time trying to figure out routine things. Now you said college level course. Algebra is not a college level course. I think it's not considered college level until you take Calculus or an equivalent stats course. Either way, math teaches logical thinking and that's the real reason they make most people take it.

No practical experience doesn't seem accurate. While you're in a doctor of nursing program you have to do 1500 hours of clinicals. That's the equivalent of 30 hours a week for a year. That IS some experience--enough to know if you are in the right field for you and definately enough to gain some further knowledge besides sitting in a classroom.

Hi everyone, I am currently getting ready to graduate from Case Western with a bachelors degree in Biology and Chemistry. I was once on a pre-med track but decided not to pursue it for a couple of reasons. One is that I am over 30 and would really like to start a family fairly soon, another is that I cannot relocate which makes med school a more difficult choice. Anyway, there are so many options out there for science majors--it's hard to get the fact and even harder to choose. I have finally decided on the ND program at Case's nursing school. It's 4 more years and I will get a RN, MSN, and ND degree. The people there seem wonderful and this program just seems to feel right for me. Then I look into the message boards and become plagued with questions that I do not know the answer to. What really is the differance between NP's and PA's? Do PA's really make more money? (Having worked for quite a few years, I know money is not the primary consideration--but I would still like to know.) Is it true that NP's have a hard time finding employment? (I live in Cleveland--I can't relocate to a rural area). Is it true that the future of both NP's and PA's is precarious? (I wouldn't think so--but that is something I have been seeing over and over again). Also, NP's I have personally spoken to seem to LOVE their jobs--is this true for the NP's on this site? I am still set on becoming an NP--but I like to be as informed as possible. Any info. would really help. Thanks!

Hi everyone, I'm reading these posts and honestly don't know what to think. I have a bachelors in Bio. and Chem. I am going into a 4 year ND program which will give me my RN degree in 2 years, then a MSN, then finally a ND degree. It's been explained to me that this is an intensive program. It's never occurred to me that people would have a problem with this because I have no nursing experience. MD's and vets don't need prior experience to pursue their fields; I think just the fact that you are willing to go through that much schooling, achieve good grades, and pursue the profession you have chosen implies the dedication underlying your choice. After 8 years of school, I will be 36 years old--I am positive that I will do whatever it takes to excel in my field. I hope I don't encounter this type of negative attitude once I do get into my field of being a NP--but if I do, I will succeed in spite of it.