UNF Florida New CRNA program - Interview

[FL-RN]

If I've overlooked any prior posts regarding this, I apologise. I wasn't able to find anything using search within the forums.

Anyhow, the program at UNF will be *officially* accredited in June, and the first class will start in August. However, since the application and interview process for that first class takes place now, before they are officially accredited and able to advertise, the number of applicants has been few and solely based upon word-of-mouth. (23 applications for 16 seats, I believe). I'm one of said applicants, and without being too presumptuous, I think there's a pretty fair chance of an interview and was looking for advice.

The program is essentially a transplant of the Jacksonville option that was previously at FIU (Florida Internation University) in south florida. The director of the UNF program used to work at FIU, and so I'm thinking that it will most likely be similar to that program.

Anyone with advice that has undergone the FIU CRNA admission interview process?

[NassauRN]

I also recieved an interview letter, as did my other 2 friends! Will interview on 3/17. Was told the applicants were decreased to 31 total-great odds-64.5% chance of each student getting in-that is if they decide to accept 20 students-technically they could take less, but I doubt it. Good luck to everyone and hope to be studying soon! Later!

[NassauRN]

Glad to hear everyone has an interview-good luck to everyone. I would like to know more about you guys/ladies if you don't mind. You can send a private message if you like-I will definitely tell you all more about myself. I am told it is really helpful to build bonds and friendships early in the program. By the way, did any of you take the GRE prep class with me at UNF? Well, good luck once again, not that you guys/ladies will need it! Later!

[FL-RN]

I agree. With a class of twenty, it will be a tight group. Also, considering this is the first CRNA class at UNF, I think it will be especially helpful to bond together as inevitable kinks get worked out in the program. If you look at the course schedule, the CRNA class will be taking 16 credit hours the first semester, with 9 of those being the same classes that all the other ARNP tracks take (and those 9 credits are "full time" for them =). It will be crazy, I'm sure. I'm picturing the "CRNA section" in those courses.

[FL-RN]

Interview done today. I had reviewed all kinds of stuff assuming they'd be asking some clinical questions.... and NOT ONE!!! very stressful interview. wondering anyone else's feelings post-interview.

[SkyTy]

Well, Nassau, how was your interview?

[Terpole]

I'm really happy for you guys and the program at UNF. Right now I'm still in my BSN work and will graduate at the end of next year. I'm orginally from jacksonville, so how cool would it be for me to come back home, work, and live with mom to save cash for tuition purposes. Then apply and get accepted into UNF MSN anesthesia program?!?! Awesome! Opps, I have to graduate first from FAMU. Anyways, y'all let me know who got in.

Oh yeah, could you guys give me some insight on which hospital is great to get the ICU experience in jacksonville?

[FL-RN]

Oh yeah, could you guys give me some insight on which hospital is great to get the ICU experience in jacksonville?

I think the best two options are Shands Jax. or St. Luke's/Mayo

Shands SICU for high acuity trauma exp.

SLH for transplant/open heart, exp. w/ technology (swans/CCO, CRRT, IABP, VAD, large variety of drips)

[NassauRN]

Well, Nassau, how was your interview?

Not Bad-Not Good-definitely did not feel better about my chances after the interview, but I've heard the same thing from other interviewees. Guess I'll know by Apr. 15th. It was definitely a stressful experience, eventhough I thought I was well prepared. 10 people giving you the stare down while you mutter out the answer=stressful. I'm not to worried about it now-it is over and there is nothing I can do about it. I still feel pretty confident about my chances, just hope the interview didn't kill me. How about you SkyTy? Did you interview yet? If so, how did you do. Good luck to everyone-we will know an answer soon enough. Also, how was everyone elses interview? Did you feel as stressed as I did?

[SkyTy]

No, I go the 31st. How long did the individual part last?

[csojet]

Hi,

I have been accepted to the FIU CRNA program starting this fall. I interviewed in February and did here the interim directory mention the program at UNF. So for all of you wondering what the interview process will probably be like here goes:

At FIU it was a panel, about 7-9 people in total, it was pretty intimidating. They do ask clinical questions based on an applicants personal experience in ICU. They also ask personal questions on how you have prepared financially and otherwise to undertake the immense challenge of studying anesthesia. Some panelists had tougher questions than others. I think what is most important is to remain calm, answer the questions to the best of your ability and show that you are capable of handling stress.

Good luck to you all!

[FL-RN]

Definitely very stressful, particularly the lack of feedback when you responded to questions.

Individual interviews were about 15-20 minutes each.

[NassauRN]

No, I go the 31st. How long did the individual part last?

My interview lasted just over 20 minutes I believe. I agree with FL-RN about the lack of response from the interviewers-I had them laughing at first-felt real good, then some questions they would not respond to my answers, leaving an uncomfortable pause. Its all good now-good luck to you on the 31st.