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Hi there! I thought I would start a thread for anyone applying to University of SF for the Non-RN MSN program for Fall of 2016. I haven't seen any threads (that I know of). I was not accepted to the Summer 2016 cohort, so I thought that it may not hurt to try again. I heard the Orange County campus is a little easier to get in, but not sure about this. It would be nice to see everyone's stats as well!
Good luck to us all!
Hi everyone, I am not sure if you all still check this thread, but I was wanting some insight for those who were accepted. First, congrats that is amazing such a big accomplishment. I have applied to USF summer 2016 in SF and then fall 2016 in OC and have been denied twice. I am going to try again for the third time for Spring 2017 in Orange County. I have tried to speak with the admissions counselors on ways to better myself for the next round but was unlucky. I was wondering if you successful people have any input for me applying? Any tips on how to write a killer personal statement? any tips would be very helpful, for I want to get into this program so badly. Thank you to anyones reply and congrats again on Fall 2016 beginnings!
Hi @tkretsch, I'm so sorry to hear that. Please do not lose hope! I know how you feel. I am no expert but I will try giving you advice that I have used in my own application and have read elsewhere. First of all, look on the USF website and read about the foundation and beliefs of the school (the Catholic Jesuit tradition). You don't have to be religious, But I think writing the personal statement along those beliefs might help (tying in your experiencs to the beliefs of school). Also research the CNL role and how it ties into your futur goals. Change up your personal statement and letters of recommendation for the next application cycle. They want 2 letters but I'd say even do 3 if you can. For example, 1 academic letter (from professor), 1 professional (employer), and 1 related to your health care experience. I would also say gain more experience in the healthcare field whether it's volunteer or CNA, EMT,etc. Do anything you can in the community to work with underserved populations, as well as culturally diverse populations. USF looks at the personal statement closely since it's like an interview sort of. But they also look at the application as a whole (which is great). Update your CV/RESUME as well and add in more things as you accumulate more experience. Have others read your personal statement and really make it clear, concise, and outline your exact reasons why you want to become a nurse (past experience, future goals), as well as a solid understanding of the CNL role. I had trouble writing the personal statement because I was thinking about it too hard. I'd say take a step back and really find the out the genuine reason why you wanna be a nurse in the first place and why USF-CNL? And then build upon those reasons according to the prompt. I hope this could help you, and I wish you the best of luck :)
Hi @tkretsch! As far as the personal statement goes, I can offer advice on how I approached it. I made sure to completely stick to the writing prompt. My first draft was so long and I had to work to be very clear, concise and focused. I focused on my experiences around healthcare and observation of nurses. I also focused on discussing how some of the qualities that made me a good former teacher would translate into making me a good future nurse. I researched the CNL role extensively to be sure that fit my goals, and then made it clear in my personal statement why the CNL role is a fit for me. The biggest advice I can give you to stand out is to clearly state what it is that YOU can contribute to the nursing field and CNL role. I would recommend staying away from cliche statements like "I have always dreamed of being a nurse since childhood." Rather try and tell your story, be clear about your goals, and portray how your experiences and natural abilities/strengths would contribute to the nursing field. I wish you the best of luck!
stasha_nicole
13 Posts
Hi all, I know someone who was accepted decided to give up their spot. Wishing you all lots of luck!