I am currently working on my preresquisite classes and will be applying to nursing school next year. I thought that nursing jobs were plentiful and there was a shortage of nurses. But as I read this message board I am reading time and time again of new nurses not being able to find jobs or being offered low wages.
My mom has been an RN for 35 years, makes very good money and says there are always new grads starting at her hospital, and they always need more help.
So is the job market really that different from region to region? I'm in California, and new nurses here start in the $25-35 per hour and there seems to be plenty of job opportunities. What am I not understanding here when I read about people not being able to find jobs or being offered wages that start in the teens?
Ok, I just looked at the webpage for the CSUS accelerated program. It appears that the entrance criteria is based on GPA and score on GRE. My grades are very good thus far, so if I can get a high score on the GRE, then maybe I'd have a shot at this one...
If there is anyone who is doing the CSUS accelerated program, I'd love to hear from them!
FYI - I just finished an ABSN program (in FL, not CA), and it is possible for many people to work at least part time. Your school will tell you that it's not, but it seems to be in my program at least. I only worked the first two semesters, since my husband got a significant raise at that point, but I could have stayed on if it still would have been worth the time sacrifice for us. Many of my classmates worked for that long, and one worked the whole way through. It's tough, but don't automatically assume that it's impossible to work during an accelerated program. The programs are also often cheaper, since you're in class for fewer semesters. If you do have to take one semester off you can increase your loans, and you'll still be finished and working so much more quickly. Of course, the programs are not for everyone. If you have kids/other family obligations on top of work and school, it probably gets a little overwhelming (although I'm sure people have done it). Look into them though, I think they're very worthwhile!
metalgirl70
22 Posts
Ok, I just looked at the webpage for the CSUS accelerated program. It appears that the entrance criteria is based on GPA and score on GRE. My grades are very good thus far, so if I can get a high score on the GRE, then maybe I'd have a shot at this one...
If there is anyone who is doing the CSUS accelerated program, I'd love to hear from them!