Should I apply now?

TexasCCRN · Oct 1, 2005

I graduated with my BSN this past May. I moved to a new state and in August started working as a new grad in an ICU. Ever since I started my BSN program, I wanted to become a CRNA. I know that CRNA programs require a minimum of 1 year ICU experience. I'm not sure if I'm ready right now to apply since I am still in orientation and learning so much. But maybe as the year goes by, and by the time I have my one year experience, I'd be ready? So I should go ahead and apply now? This wouldn't even be an issue if I was younger, but I'm already in my mid-30's and I want to get this done as soon as possible. I'm holding off on having a family and settling down with my life until I reach my goal. So I don't know what to do. Is it even too late to apply now - I think most deadlines are in November, but have most schools already accepted students?

I would say just settle down a bit. I really would not recommend applying now. Most folks who apply have lots of experience and are top notch critical care nurses. If you think about it what do you have to offer the program right now...just a piece of paper that says you passed a test for minimal competency to be a nurse. Most programs require many certifications before application as well. For example to sit for the CCRN you have to have a certain # of minimal hours in critical care nursing. Most programs (and I would imagine all of them) want experience and want to know what you have done/learned in your experience. How do you think you will compete during an interview with only 6 months of nursing knowledge.

I don't mean to be a downer at all. But my advice is learn as much as you can and apply next year. I just think at this time it would be a waste of time. Think about how many qualified applicants these schools are looking at with years of experience.

I know how you feel. I was in the same situation as you are. Everything has been put on hold for school. The skills and knowledge you will obtain as a critical care nurse are very important to pt assessment, etc. If you want to work towards applying take a chemistry class or some other class that would be helpful. See what things the schools you are applying to recommends. Some schools require classes before you start.

Good Luck and keep your head up. You are well on your way!

jenniek · Oct 1, 2005

I graduated with my BSN this past May. I moved to a new state and in August started working as a new grad in an ICU. Ever since I started my BSN program, I wanted to become a CRNA. I know that CRNA programs require a minimum of 1 year ICU experience. I'm not sure if I'm ready right now to apply since I am still in orientation and learning so much. But maybe as the year goes by, and by the time I have my one year experience, I'd be ready? So I should go ahead and apply now? This wouldn't even be an issue if I was younger, but I'm already in my mid-30's and I want to get this done as soon as possible. I'm holding off on having a family and settling down with my life until I reach my goal. So I don't know what to do. Is it even too late to apply now - I think most deadlines are in November, but have most schools already accepted students?

I would apply and schedule your GRE if you haven't already taken it. By the time you start a program, you will have had a year of experience in.

Good luck.

CougRN · Oct 1, 2005

I would say wait until next spring and then start applying. Most applications won't be due until sometime next year if you are looking to start in the fall of 2006. That is what I did. I graduated in May, got into an ICU orientation by July and applied the following spring. I got into the school i most wanted and the first one i interviewed with but i also was granted interviews at 4 other schools that i turned down. So it can be done and if this is what you want i say go for it. My recommendation is to get through orientation. soak up all the knowledge your preceptors have to offer and work hard on the unit. Also, take continueing ed classes if they are available in your area. I took advanced hemodynamics, pharm for the ICU, 12-lead and balloon-pump. This shows your desire to continue to learn and improves your knowledge base for your interview. Plus you want to work on the unit for at least 6-8 months before anyone can properly give you a recommendation that you want to send to the schools. Best of luck.

thunderpal · Oct 2, 2005

Thank you for your replies. This board has always been very helpful.

Since I just moved to a new state and started working, I feel like I am far from ready to begin applying to schools. I also would not want to ask my new colleagues/supervisors for recommendations at this time. One being that I'm so new and second, they might react negatively. It would be nice if I could start applying in the spring, but I thought that schools needed applications by Nov? I even heard from one school that said the class for 2006 was closed, and this was in July. So I am confused.

TexasCCRN · Oct 2, 2005

Thank you for your replies. This board has always been very helpful.
Since I just moved to a new state and started working, I feel like I am far from ready to begin applying to schools. I also would not want to ask my new colleagues/supervisors for recommendations at this time. One being that I'm so new and second, they might react negatively. It would be nice if I could start applying in the spring, but I thought that schools needed applications by Nov? I even heard from one school that said the class for 2006 was closed, and this was in July. So I am confused.

Every school has a different start time, deadline, things they want, etc. You just have to get on the schools website and check it out. You sound very motivated. I am sure you will have all your ducks in a row!

thunderpal · Oct 2, 2005

Can I ask you what schools these are that you have mentioned?

I would say wait until next spring and then start applying. Most applications won't be due until sometime next year if you are looking to start in the fall of 2006. That is what I did. I graduated in May, got into an ICU orientation by July and applied the following spring. I got into the school i most wanted and the first one i interviewed with but i also was granted interviews at 4 other schools that i turned down. So it can be done and if this is what you want i say go for it. My recommendation is to get through orientation. soak up all the knowledge your preceptors have to offer and work hard on the unit. Also, take continueing ed classes if they are available in your area. I took advanced hemodynamics, pharm for the ICU, 12-lead and balloon-pump. This shows your desire to continue to learn and improves your knowledge base for your interview. Plus you want to work on the unit for at least 6-8 months before anyone can properly give you a recommendation that you want to send to the schools. Best of luck.