Seattle area direct BSN vs Community College

Noonpoon · May 23, 2017

Hey,

so I have a bit of a peculiar case. I am one year out of high school. I'm only saying this because it might matter later on, but I was a very, very good student. I took a gap year this past year. I fell in love with the nursing career path during that time, but didn't commit to it until after the 4-year direct entry program deadlines were over.

My options as of now are:

1) Go to community college for an Associate's in pre-nursing in preparation to transfer to Seattle U, UW, and similar schools in Washington. I have heard it is extremely competitive (80 spots for 600-ish applicants at Seattle U one year, for example, and correct me if I'm wrong, but it seems that a lot of slightly older students with years of experience are competing for these positions). Also, a lot of schools (Seattle Pacific University and Washington State University (I think?) only designate a meager 5-10ish spots for transfers). I can't tell if I'm selling myself short, but I don't like those odds. Plenty of very qualified students don't make it. So if this doesn't work out...

2) I go the ADN and RN-BSN route. This takes longer. I have to apply every step along the way, and that's a headache in of itself. I have no reason to believe I won't get good grades based on my past academic record, but you never know. It's also cheaper, but money isn't the hugest priority (something to think about, but I have resources for non-community college route)

-or-

3) I try to get into a direct entry nursing program (Seattle University or Pacific Lutheran University) to enter college TWO years after graduating high school. If admitted, this would guarantee I would get into the program as long as I get decent grades. I am perfectly happy to put effort into working and volunteering, but the odds of getting in as a transfer into these programs are something to be recognized. I would happily work/volunteer just for the experience no matter which program I choose. I love the program at Seattle U. I do feel insecure about applying as a graduate and not a high school senior, but I have a perfect GPA, very difficult coursework, and what I like to believe are impressive non-academic endeavors. I think I have a decent chance at getting a scholarship if I go this route. This would mean working as a CNA for a year, and not starting school yet.

I don't know what to do... I'm having trouble sleeping and general anxiety because I feel like I messed up my life even though I logically know it's not true. I think I'm having trouble adjusting to making adult decisions, and it honestly sucks.

Essentially:

Is going into a direct-entry program worth it for me? I am specifically talking about direct-entry programs vs transferring vs ADN/RN-BSN in Seattle area. Anyone who has gone through any of these paths in the Seattle area, I would much appreciate any advice