The Great Debate...

I have never been in your situation but I can imagine that if I had the same patient (and neurotic wife!) day in and day out, I would probably not want to be a CNA anymore as well. Afterall, every nurse has surely had a patient that really pushed their buttons, plucked their nerves, etc. We are all human. Certainly, I have had my share. But my experience and frustrations with that one patient does not sum up who I am as a nurse, or the compassion I have for my patients.

As for the financial aspects, I don't know that I have any great suggestions on that one. I would think that you'd have to sit down with the hubby (forgive me if you have already done that) and go over the two scenarios: work part-time and school part-time or school FT and no work. Keep in mind that the quicker you get out of school, the quicker you start making RN bucks. Also, what do you think is most comfortable for you time wise? Are you someone who would really enjoy going FT? Or is PT more your cup of tea?

As for loans, i think it is always best to go for the loans offered by school. Usually the interest rate is a lot lower. Start checking out scholarship possibilities. There's a recent thread where I suggested www.fastweb.com go to the thread for details - "how to pay for school". And I think that it is easier to get scholarships and grants if you are going FT instead of PT but I could be totally wrong on that.

Well, good luck to you!

Jeanne - just my

Education is an investment and something no one can ever take away for you! If you truly want ANY education- invest in it- take the loans- get yourself into a decent career and then you can pay back the loans. That's what they are there for-- you to get an education, start a career, and go from there.

I am a single mother and I start nursing school on the 25th. I am not your traditional student as I have a kiddo, truck payment and pay half the mortgage. I do have an amazing fiance that is helping get through this.

I agree...the sooner you get in school the sooner you will be making RN bucks. There is never a good time no matter what. If you wait till next year, you will probably come up with another reason. I have been wating to go back to school for 5 years and am just now doing it. I could wait 2 years till the credit cards are paid off or 4 years till the truck is paid off, but there will always be bills.

I am struggling to get all of the financial aide that I need, currently I am about $6,500 short. I have applied for student loans, but because I do not have a co-signer that has good credit they won't give them to me. I have great credit and can go out and buy anything I want anytime, but they still want me to have a co-signer.

All in all my suggestion is to go for it. Each year getting into nursing school gets harder and harder with more student's to compete with. Although the economy is crappy right now and not as many people are willing to give scholarships there is some money. Working part time might be the way to go if you have to, just remember if you get accepted into nursing school put it first. Failing a class can put a big damper on your career.

I wish you luck!