Tampa students, Career change

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Hello, I've been lurking around this site for a long time.

I applied to the PTEC LPN program a few years ago and got into the first online class. But I got a lot of criticism from family/coworkers about going to a LPN program and was also worried about the online format so I never attended and just finished my BA at USF instead. Now a few years later, I still am interested in pursuing nursing.

I was looking into applying at HCC and all I still need to take are A&P2 and Micro&L. If I do well in those classes, I will have a 3.6 prereq GPA. I'm just worried I won't get in.

I have been reading through these posts and trying to decide what to do at this point. I'm not sure if I want to spend the next two semesters finishing up my pre-reqs and then apply to HCC's RN program as well as some LPN programs as back up in case I don't get in.

I also have considered just applying to a LPN program starting this fall (PTEC) or in Jan (Erwin Tech). I wouldn't mind getting my foot into the door of a hospital by working as a LPN while working my way to my RN. However, it doesn't seem like they hire LPNs at hospitals around the Tampa bay area.

I have looked into accelerated BSN programs but I know my gpa won't cut it. I also have looked into Galen, Rasmussen, Keiser and Everest RN programs and they are expensive! Keiser and Everest seem to be the only two accredited which would allow me to continue with my BSN after. I like that I would be through school much faster that route considering I already have a family, but not sure I want to pay the price instead of waiting and applying to an ADN or LPN program instead.

Right now I'm leaning towards applying to the PTEC and Erwin LPN programs coming up. I think I will continue with my pre-req's unless I get into one of the LPN programs...

I guess I just wanted advice by other students in the bay area who have attended any of these programs.... Galen, Rasmussen, Keiser, Everest, HCC, PTEC, PHCC, SPC, Erwin.. What was your gpa when you got in, how hard are the programs, do you have decent clinical sites, is it feasible to work part-time while in them and spend an adequate amount of time with my child, etc.?

Thanks! (Sorry this was so long)

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I would stick with HCC since it is cheaper. You have a great prerq GPA. The HCC web site said the class of 2012 had a min of 3.5. IT doesn't mean that every class was the same. But just an FYI to know what kind of GPA is needed. You have it.

I took A&P2 and Micro w/lab last term and I think it helped having both of them the same term. In the end, they were talking about some of the same things.

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I thought about taking them both in the same semester but was worried it would be difficult to study for two science classes at the same time, while working and being a parent. Maybe I'll reconsider however if you felt you did okay with both

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My kids are grown and I am not working. But I did take a total of 5 classes this term. I was excited and enjoyed my science classes. Things may be different for you. However, in the end, Micro was talking about immunology and so was A&P2. That was kinda nice.

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Specializes in NICU, Trauma, Oncology.

I would apply to HCC but also apply to the aBSN programs. Typically, those programs look at the whole applicant and not just the GPA when deciding who to accept. I would talk to advisers for both and see what kind of vibe you get. Also, make sure that the market in Tampa is still agreeable with ADN-RNs, many areas are seeing hospitals only want BSN trained nurses. So you might want to ask around to recruiters and any friends that might have some insight.

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I graduated from Erwin this past April, my GPA for HCC was a 3.3 so I didn't have a chance. I'm currently a licensed LPN as of June 16 :) . I started the program with a toddler and had a baby in the middle of the program and worked full-time 32-40hrs. I'll be going to Galen this October for their bridge LPN to ADN. I decided Galen over the community colleges because of scheduling, I can do online work and still be able to work full time AND Galen IS sacs accredited so you can transfer to any 4 year university after to get your BSN (can be done online). If you finish strong with your last two pre reqs you should have a good chance of getting into HCC.

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Also, if you are considering Erwin for January you should take the TABE (if you don't have an associates degree) and TEAS (need a 56%) as soon as possible to be considered

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