115 Posts
My best advice is to take it slowly, at least initially -- maybe one or two classes per semester. Finish your english, math, social science and humanities classes first, and then do your sciences (as many schools require that science credits be completed within five years of application). If there's a subject you particularly enjoy that also counts as a pre-req (e.g., psychology), I'd start with that one first -- it will make it much easier to ease back into school and increase your likelihood of successfully completing the class (which will also boost your confidence in yourself and make you want to tackle your next class, and so on).
If you have a part-time RN program in mind, that's great, but I would also explore other options. Are you sure your employer doesn't already offer programs to help employees advance their educations? Check with your nurse recruitment or HR department to see if they might be affiliated with a local nursing program that might allow you to work (for example) 20 hours per week while attending school 20 hours per week (called a 20/20 program where I live), or if they have scholarships you can apply for, or if they offer loan repayment for new grad RN's. I would also ask co-workers if they've heard of any such programs at other hospitals -- if so, it might be worth applying to a facility that does offer such help.
Making an appointment with a guidance counselor familiar with the nursing program at your chosen college is also a good place to start. They can tell you exactly how to proceed given your time and financial constraints and will map out all of the classes you will need, how to apply for financial aid, etc.
I know it's scary, but I have found that there's a lot of help out there if you take the time to try and find it. Ask around, call around, and explore your options! Good luck! :)
U2BCool
17 Posts
I graduated from LPN school in 1992 and just started my first nursing LPN/RN class. I took a few pre-reqs at a time.
I did not want to start with learning BPs etc. but my transition program expects the LPN to already have that knowledge. I am glad I went back I am learning alot and gaining some different perspectives to the knowledge I already have.
Hospitals seem to be going through the we only want RNs phase in my area, so LPN jobs are hard to find and those available are very low paying.
We have had to make some serious cuts to our budget and I know if I get in a pinch I can get a student loan.
I think the average person in my class is in their late thirties.