What Should I Expect for Orientation--El Centro/Northlake Nursing

[bnaccio]

I applied for the Fall 2013 El Centro Nursing Program through DCCCD and initially I was not accepted. It wasn't until early-mid June where I got a letter stating a spot had opened up and it was mine for the taking, should I so choose; which of course I did. My decision of accepting however did not come without hesitation as I already feel like maybe I have missed something. There is also the fact that my family and I recently moved to Southwest Fort Worth--which as all of you know is in Tarrant County--thus leaving me more than apprehensive. Forget the added cost of being an out-of-county student, but i'm assuming i'll be no doubt putting as many miles on my brand new car each year (if not more) than a NASCAR driver does in their year. So I would like to know what to expect for my first semester in relation to orientation as well as whatever is expected (for examples, what to bring, what to buy and what not to buy, when payment is expected for the fingerprinting/background check/drug testing, etc.) I also heard there was an additional three day orientation a week before school starts, so anything about that as well. Also, what do i expect for my first semester as an El Centro nursing student; I have a friend who was kicked out for what appeared to be considered a type of "insubordination", she's the type who's not afraid to ask questions especially when the teacher comes off as incompetent. She's a tough girl who also admittedly cried on many occasions due to the treatment and yelling from the teachers. I know this is a broad question, but any and all answers, regardless of word count, would be much appreciated.

[bnaccio]

If you're not interesting in public posting my email is [email protected]

[Panasonic]

Hello! Congratulations on your acceptance! I am an El Centro-North Lake grad May 2009. It is a tough program to get into and to stay in. I did get a job a month before graduation. I still work in the same place and love it. As for the program, I'm sure it has changed. I don't have info on costs, etc. But I will say that the first semester, like the ones after it, suck. I don't know many people, I know none, in fact, who enjoyed nursing school. My mantra during those two years was "just get through this." My clinical instructor was a complete but, and writing care plans is pretty stupid, in my opinion. Just keep working hard and eventually graduation will come. In my last semester, I did a preceptorship for clinical. Basically, I was hooked up with one nurse and worked her schedule twice a week. It was awesome because I only had to see my clinical instructor twice. I recommend doing that, if possible. The driving is going to be a drag for you but you are in and I promise it will fly by. My memory is foggy, thank God, but remember, you'll get out of the program what you put into it. Back then, there were a few instructors who I could count on to help me if asked. Get close to some of the other people in the class. Make a study group, if possible. These are the people who will get you through. You won't be the only one from FW, I imagine. We had a few from mid-cities. Good luck!

[lvilleguy]

Hello and congratulations!! I am trying to apply for the Nursing program for spring 2015. Could you please tell me some details about why you were not accepted at first? Overall I do have a good GPA. I just took A&P 1 fall 2013, and unfortunately I got a B (89). I am just worried I will be rejected from the program. Also, if you don't feel like to post in the forum my email is [email protected]