TCC Prereqs/core classes

JaxiaKiley · May 7, 2006

Hi Mary,

If you are up for it, you can sign up for a summer class, like Psych, English or Math. In the fall, I would take at least A&P I so that you can get an idea of how hard the program will be. The class isn't easy, but with a lot of work, it is possible to make good grades :) As for how many classes, that depends on each person and if you are working or not. I would suggest starting slow because good grades are more important than finishing all the classes at once.

I was out of school for 10 years, and I am finishing up my pre-reqs at TCC right now. I have finals on Monday and Tuesday and then I will be able to apply to nursing school! :) There is also a great forum on this board for pre-nursing students, where I found a lot of support while I was taking these classes.

You can do it! Best of luck!

momto2beauties · May 7, 2006

First of all - kudos to you for wanting to go back, it's a really hard decision. I've actually found that it's a little easier this time around because I'm studying about something I really care about. I've been working to complete are my prereqs for about 3 1/2 years now, but it's totally worth it. I don't know if you've followed my "saga" on a seperate thread below I' currently on the alternate list for the fall semester at TCC. Strategically, I would say to take you sciences as close to your application time as possible. They are only good for five years. I took chemistry first because several schools won't credit you for course work over five years unless it's chemistry and then they will. (Not TCC though) You might try online classes if you think you would be disciplined enough for them. I personally took A&P1 and A&P2 online and loved it that way. It was a lot of work, but it was just a lot more flexible schedule wise. I've really taken advantage of lots of the internet and ITV classes so let me know if have any questions there. Your grades are going to be really, really important so don't take any more than you honestly think you can handle.

Good luck to you!!

amlaboy · May 7, 2006

Thanks for all the advise. Yes, I read the whole TCC thread and found out you were on the Alt. list. From what everyone says though, you still have a chance. I've been praying for you that you make it this fall. I know how important and all-mind consuming it must be!

I'm not currently working but thought about taking a class starting May 30th for the summer and then taking a few classing in the fall.

Which classes are easiest and which ones are the hardest?

If I took 3 classes a semester, how long would it take me to get all the prereqs done?

A friend of mine decided to go the nursing route at TCC and her first class was microbiology (prereqs.) She did lousy in it and never went back to school. I would be afraid the same discouragement would afflict me. I appreciate all the info and encouragement.

Katydidit34 · May 7, 2006

If you don't have any college classes at all behind you, I would ease my way back in with psychology, maybe comp I, and if you need math remediation, take that too, that way you can build you study skills back up and not feel as overwhelmed. A&P I isn't impossible, but it is a course in which you need to know how you study best. It is lots of memorization.

Don't worry about how long you've been out of school. I graduated from high school in 1988 and went back to school in 2002. You can do it!! Don't be overwhelmed with what you have in front of you. Even if it takes a couple of years to get them all done, that time is going to pass anyway and you will have spent the time doing something really awesome for yourself. Let me know what campus you will attend and what classes you are going to take and I can give you some instructors that I liked. I took all of my prereq's at NE. Good luck!!

amlaboy · May 7, 2006

I'll be going to the South campus. I live within a few miles from there. Sycamore School Rd. & McCart area. Thanks for the class suggestions. I really appreciate it!

momto2beauties · May 8, 2006

Sounds like Katy gave you some great advice.

I just wanted to say thanks for the prayers. It's been amazing to see how incredibly supportive people can be that don't even know me!

JaxiaKiley · May 8, 2006

The reason I said start with the 3 hours classes is because they are typically easier for most people. Starting there would give you a chance to get in the swing of things again. The sciences require a lot of effort, but it is totally possible.

Mom2, where did you take A&P online? How was it?

momto2beauties · May 8, 2006

Jaxia -

I took it at NE campus. You have to get up at 6am to register on the first day of registration because there are only 24 spots and they go really fast.

This probably sounds like a contradication, but as long you are willing to work hard the class can be pretty easy. I can certianly give you some tips if you end up going that route.

JaxiaKiley · May 8, 2006

Mom2 - Ah. I always get up at 6a on registration day because I like to take Internet classes :) I remember seeing A&P I online when I registered this Spring, but I didn't see A&P II when I registered for Summer. Maybe it is only offered during the long sessions?

Did you have to go on campus for your lab? I've heard different things from different people.

momto2beauties · May 8, 2006

Yep, they are taught by Mr. Foote and he only teaches them over the long semester.

Nope, both lecture and lab are complete online except for a few exams you have to do in the testing center. You also will have a two hour orientation where you will disect a pig to take home so be prepared! :)

amlaboy · May 8, 2006

What are the online or TV classes like? Are they just like being in the classroom?