tough choice - school vs work

[gijen]

I just accepted a new job as a corrections nurse at the county jail. During my interview, I fully disclosed that I'm enrolled in an LPN to RN bridge program and may have some scheduling conflicts on occasion (I only have clinicals one day a week, and the position I accepted is for nights). I was told it wasn't a big deal and they would work with me.

Today I had my second day of orientation at the jail, and they JUST NOW told me I'd be working the day shift for the first 4 weeks for orientation to the floor. I mentioned that I'd have to work around my clinical schedule was told that would be a problem and that if they made exceptions for me, they'd have to make them for everyone.

I was given the impression that this would not be an issue, but now it is? It was left at "you'll have to do some real soul searching..." as in choose between my one day of school a week or full time employment. *****! Why would they tell me it wouldn't be a problem if that's not the case? What should I do? I'm not willing to give up my seat in the RN program (it's been a long road getting here!), but I also need the money and would love the experience from the jail. I'm feeling really mislead and thrown under the bus over this. Any advice?

[luv4nursing]

gijen,

I lived in Orlando for several years and took the LPN to RN bridge at Valencia CC. Is that where you are going?

If you need an easy job while you are in school that is flexible, look into Maxim Home Healthcare (peds HH). Thats what I did when I was in the program. It was low stress, decent money, and I got a lot of studying done at work. I was able to maintain full time and more (sometimes 48 to 60 hours a week) throughout the program bc the job was so low key. I actually made more that year than I do now in another state as an RN, but thats bc I dont work much overtime now that I have a little one.

Can you get the person who interviewed you to back you up that you were promised that they would work around your school schedule? If it comes down to choosing, school wins hands down.

[bmathis]

School should be your first priority. I think RN's will get hired more than LPN's. It will pay off in the long run. Is there another clinical group you could go with one day during the orientation week? Could you make up the clinical time another day with a preceptor? Its hard to find a balance in work and school. I worked full time, went to nursing school full time, and had a toddler through it all. It is tough! Just keep pushing and it will be worth it in the end when you only have to work 3 days a week and make good money! Try to work it out and balance it! See what options you have at school to make you scedule work just for that short orientation period. Or like the other person said, try to find the person who told you they would work around your clinical schedule...good luck!!!

[gijen]

The lady who assured me that my schedule wouldn't be a problem is currently in England bc her mother had a stroke. And today I was given the ultimatum of stay all day for more orientation and have a job or leave at noon to get to clinicals and resign my position. Clinicals won. I just can't believe a facility wouldn't be willing to give me a little wiggle room in return for gaining an RN in three semesters. I can't devote myself to an institution that doesn't support higher education, especially for nurses.

Thanks again for all your input. I know in my heart I made the right decision and it will pay off in the end.

[canigraduate]

For what it's worth, I think you made the right decision!