Struggling with low GPA?

[ammiedew]

Hi y'all!

So I made the decision last year to pursue an ADN. I'm finishing up my pre-requisites to apply. But I have an issue.

My cumulative GPA blows. This was a combination of severe depression and anxiety and a horrifically abusive (now ex) spouse. I'm a great student, but I struggled big time when I was trying to scrape my way through school.

My question is, if by the time I finish my pre-reqs and re-take a few classes, I'm still not accepted within the first 1 or 2 attempts, what should I do? Would it make sense to pursue a CNA or LVN in the meantime while I continue to apply? I'm really anxious to get started but I also know I have some major work ahead of me before I'm even able to be considered.

Has anyone else had a similar experience?

[MinneNurse, BSN, RN]

Do you have any specific nursing programs in mind you are looking to get into? If so, call them and find out what factors they look at when reviewing applications. At the university I currently attend and others in my state I looked into most only looked at your GPA in the pre-reqs they required. If thats the case focus on those courses and forget about the rest. I would also suggest contacting a few programs around you and looking at their requirements for admission and how long their programs are so you know what your options are. Around my area, the LPN programs are usually just as long or 1 semester shorter than the ADN programs, whereas the CNA course is usually 6-8 weeks. As others mentioned, some programs are LPN-RN and I found some programs require you to have your CNA when you apply. Lots to think about, best of luck to you!!

[Chrissygraduatenurse, LPN]

Try to get in first and if that doesn't work then try LVN and bridge to RN

[ammiedew]

Thank you everyone for your encouragement and great feedback. I feel a little less terrified that my dream will fall apart before I even have the chance to prove myself, haha. Thanks everyone. :)

[Chrissygraduatenurse, LPN]

:up:

[Val32]

Socal_EMT, EMT-B The original poster said abuse not tearing up homework. These are two very different things.

ammiedew Work hard and don't just apply to one school. Go on campus and speak to a counselor. Organize your life and school. Form friendships with like minded people.

[LilMento]

I more-or-less agree with jsfarri, CNA. I think if you can porifice out your GPA a little bit it might help. It might not necessarily be the end-all, but at a minimum if you have a stronger prereq GPA it would make for a nice interview talking point.

[nerdy student]

I am going through the same thing right now.

I am having to retake some classes to raise my GPA to what my nursing school needs. It's frustrating but at the same time I know that the school will still be there when I finish my classes, and I'll be a better student and in turn a better nurse!

Keep your head up! We can do it!