Schooling question..LPN or RN right away?

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Hello to everyone! I'm new to this site but find it very informative. I did have a question (and I know it could come down to personal preference), how many of you guys got your LPN first? Or did you just go straight into becoming an RN? I've been wanting to get into the nursing program at my community college but it's very competitive. My advisor suggested going into the LPN program then transferring into the RN program. I was just wondering if anyone had done this and if it was helpful.

A little background on me..

I'm a CNA and have been a caregiver (for mental health patients) for 6 years. Currently I'm going to school to get my Pharmacy Technician license, but ultimately I'd like to be a nurse. (Perhaps in mental health)

Any opinions or personal experience stories are welcomed. Thank you! :)

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Specializes in M/S, LTC, Corrections, PDN & drug rehab.

I would skip over becoming an LVN. I only did it because I wasn't sure about nursing. But there have been so many times I wished I just went straight to get my RN.

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Hello, thank you for the reply! I keep going back and forth sadly. I have all the prerequisites for the LVN program but have only a few for the RN program. (But I really don't want to waste money)

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I planned to become an LPN, but there was a waiting list in excess of two years. The RN program was competitive entry, so I was actually able to complete my prerequisites and get admitted in less time.

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Specializes in LTC and Pediatrics.

If the RN program is competitive, then this is what you should do. I know many people who have done it this way. They were able to work as an LPN while finishing their RN.

I planned to become an LPN, but there was a waiting list in excess of two years. The RN program was competitive entry, so I was actually able to complete my prerequisites and get admitted in less time.
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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

I started as an LPN before earning my RN license. However, I enrolled in the LPN program because it was less competitive and would admit any applicants who could pass the entrance exam. In addition, I was a nontraditional student (23-year-old homeowner) who needed to get back into the workforce quickly.

I would have pursued the RN licensure first if I had more time and family support.

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

Another option to consider if your ultimate aim is to work in Behavioral Health - becoming a Psych Tech. There are various levels, roughly equivalent to CNA - BSN. I know of a number of psych nurses who began their careers as psych techs.

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