Should I Do This!!!!

Hey there :) I took my prereqs while working full time. I'm starting the RN program in the fall at CCBC Essex. At that point I'm going part-time just to be safe. I don't have children, but I think you can definitely do your prereqs while working full-time (even with children). I know a lot of my friends from school that have 1 or more kids and did that. It's all about scheduled study time! If you can get your time management down you'll be able to study, work and spend time with your little one.

Once you get into the program you might want to consider student loans for living expenses and cut back your hours as much as you can. This is just a suggestion though. If this is your first degree you will also most likely get grants (expecially if you have dependants) like the Pell grant. You'll probably get plenty of money to help you pay for school since tuition is low. I would also ask around with the other LPN students. I'm sure the program workload is similiar, but they would probably know best. I just wanted to post to let you know you can definitely get started with the prereq part. I had my prereqs done in 2004 and waited a little bit to apply to the program so that I could cut back my hours.

During the summer you might be able to pull of 2 classes if you do mini-sessions, but Fall and Spring I did one at a time since it was the A&P courses and they are a lot of work. Just remember not to take Microbiology and a&P together. Both courses are fully managable if you pace yourself, but together it would be A LOT and you really want to get a good foundation in your sciences.

But to answer your original question: Yes you should do this! If it is something you really want...start setting up a good support system now, get through the prereqs, then when it's time to start the actual program you'll be ready. I know a lot of people that got through the RN program with kids. I don't know how many hours they worked (I know they did work though).

Just remember there are ways to make it work...loans, grants, etc. could get you through a semester and then maybe you could be a CNA in a hospital at that point that will pay for your classes etc...

go for it. i am in the process of staring lpn class as well and i plan tp work at least 33 hours a week so i can contribute something towards our bills.