Questions about Jeff State Day and Night Programs

[bamamom]

I am a Mom of 2 preschool age children and in my early thirties. My husband and I have just become separated, and I am trying to figure out the best way for me to go about nursing school. I have a B.S. in Biology, but have been a stay at home Mom for the last decade. I need to go back to school in order to provide for my children and myself. After reading some of the threads on this board, I am very skeptical of Jeff State's program. However, the Shelby campus is close to me, and I would consider doing the St. Vincent's part time program also. I know that nursing school is challenging at any age, but would I be in over my head trying to raise my children and complete my classes? Anyone in a similiar situation such as mine? Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks so much for your help.

[bamadebRN]

Hello Bamamom!

I am 4th semester at the Shelby campus. I would recommend full time day program at the Shelby campus. We have several people in my class who are single with children. One woman in my class is a widower with FIVE children! It can definitely be done. The main thing you need is someone to keep your kids for you while you are in class or clinicals and for the summer semester. My kids are in school, and I am home well before they get out of school (with the exception of the summer semester and 3 night clinicals this semester). I may have more nights next semester with my preceptorship, I'll just have to wait and see. Fortunately, I have a wonderful supportive husband who keeps the kids while I am in class or clinicals. As long as you have someone to babysit for you while you are in class or clinicals, you can definitely do it! Also, in my opinion, I think the full time day program at Shelby is the way to go! I just hear too many negative things about the St. Vincent's night program and the main campus program.

Good luck! :wink2:

[Kaazz]

I am in my first semester of the night program at the main campus. I only go 2 nights a week. I am not sure what people have been hearing, but I personally haven't come up against any issues. We did change teachers but thats because they hired on. No biggie there. I am also a stay at home mom. I have 3 kids age 2,3,6. I was homeschooling my 6 year old but it got a little much with my own studies so we did put her into private school. I personally feel that if your kids are young the night might be the best option. The only problem is they only accept once a year for that program.

Good luck to ya!

[banditz]

I agree that Shelby day program is the way to go. I have heard too many negatives from students in the main campus & PT programs. It is hard work, but I have been pleased with instructors and classmates at Shelby. Just make sure you have childcare - there are some long days.

[bamamom]

Thank you all for your responses. They have been very helpful. I am still trying to decide between the FT and PT program -right now I am leaning towards the day program. I had also thought about the LPN program just because it's shorter and would put me out in the workplace quicker, but I didn't realize it is only offered at the Jefferson campus. That would be too much of a compute for me. Thanks again for all your help and support! I'll keep you all updated on what I decide.

[Lucy G]

kaaz...are you still out there?

I know this is a old post, but I found it looking for info about the night Rn program at JS. I am applying for Fall. I was accepted for this summer day, but cannot quit work at this time as had originally planned when I applied for day program.

So, can you please tell me what your schedule is like for class and clinicals the 1st and 2nd semesters? When do you start you clinicals at the hospital?

Are you enjoying the program for the most part?

THANK YOU VERY MUCH