Starting fulltime DNP program and having a baby the same month...is it doable?

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Looking for some advice/experiences...

I will be starting the DNP program at the UofMN next September. I will be full time. I am also due (via scheduled c-section) at the end of September. I plan to take time off work, but I do not plan to take any time off school, as I feel I can push through (with help from family, and also the program is mostly online this first semester).

Anyone else have a similar experience, or have any insight?

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Specializes in Telemetry, nursing education, FNP.

Oy. Is it possible to delay your start time till January? Sounds like this is your first baby? Although you may have loads of help and backup plans, if it were me, I would give myself those first few months to adjust to life with a newborn. Sure, it's POSSIBLE, that you could push through the struggle and make it work, but at what cost?

But then *I* don't function well with sleep depravation, so you have to evaluate whether you could keep up with the discussion board posts and whatever other assignments/papers you have during that semester.

Personally, I would inquire to your program directly as to whether you could delay your start by a semester. 4 months out, you'd likely be in a much better position to manage school (physically, emotionally, psychologically, etc.). If it's possible to delay, I probably would, so as to better position yourself for success in starting your program. AND. You will have the rest of your life to multitask parenting with working/schooling. Take those first few months to just focus on your new role as a mom. :)

But that's just my opinion. I'm sure there will be others who will say that they did it and so can you.

Do whatever feels right to you, but don't underestimate the time and energy you will need during those first few months of motherhood.

For credibility, I did my NP program while navigating a divorce and then raising a 3 and 1 year old as a single mom, and I can absolutely attest to the experience that external stressors/factors will have an impact on your school.

Best of luck to you!

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You can do anything your heart desires. I highly recommend a doable and realistic time management schedule down to the minute, including bathroom. Breaks, ha. Do things in small chunks, read an assignment on your phone while nursing baby, etc

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Just curious! How did this all end up going for you with baby and starting grad school? I also am in a similar position (due in Dec, starting FNP school in the Fall)

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Specializes in Vents, Telemetry, Home Care, Home infusion.

OP last visited in 2018.

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