Should I go straight to graduate school or pay off my debts first?

[Kathy Kethdy]

I am currently a freshman in a BSN program, and I have calculated my loan debt and it will be around $40,000 when I graduate in 4 years. I'm starting to feel terrible for choosing a private school in the city over a local school, but I fell in love with the campus and I truly enjoy my time here. I ultimately want to become a nurse practitioner, but I don't know if I should take a year or two off to work as an RN (I will be living with my parents so almost all of my salary will be going towards paying off debts) and then go to grad school or if I should just go straight to grad school. Also, would it make it easier to get into grad school as well if I have RN experience? Any words of wisdom or encouragement are greatly appreciated!

[krisiepoo]

I'd wait and see how you feel about it closer to your senior year. you have tons of time to work through this in the next 3+ years. The are pros/cons to both sides

[nlynrob]

Some specialities don't allow you to apply without experience so it kind of depends on what type of NP you want to be. If you want to do acute care for example you need at least 2-3 years experience in an ICU or ED as an RN to be eligible to apply.

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

agree with above posts. Once you get some experience the right answer will be apparent.

[mrsboots87]

Without considering any experience you may need to even apply, look at the income difference when making your choice. What is the average base salary for an RN in your area? Then, what is the average base salary for a new grad NP in your area? You may find that biting the bullet in a few more years of schooling (barring any need for experience) right away, may make more sense financially, or it might not. But the salary difference that you would be earning faster should help you with your decision.