What do you think I should do?

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I need some opinions from other nursing students-

I have been working on an RN degree since the fall of 2006-mostly part-time. I have all the pre-reqs done and it is just a matter of waiting. But, I've been waiting, and waiting. I don't know where I stand on the list, I haven't made that call yet.

I am tired of waiting-I just want to get on with my life-so I've developed a Plan B. I met with an advisor at a local technical school to inquire about an LPN. I thought this would be great-I could just get on the fast track to a career and make a decent salary (which right now, I can't) and then I would have the opportunity to get into a bridge program for my RN. Another plus, after the first term, I would be CNA certified so I could get a job that pays a bit better while I obtain my LPN. (CNA classes are VERY hard to get into in the state of maine)

Only problem is I would have take out a loan for $19,000. Currently, I have about $12,00 in loans. But I have to take into consideration that I plan on doing the bridge program and that will cost me more money. Does anyone think it is worth it? :confused:

There is one other school I could apply to that offers both programs-I don't know the costs yet-and the application process does not begin until the beginning of next year:eek: So, more waiting. Not to mention I wouldn't be guarenteed a spot at this school as it is competitive.

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Specializes in Home Care.

Find out how much longer you have to wait for the RN program.

IMHO its not worth doing LPN and taking out that kind of loan money. Think about how long it will take you to make up that money if you do work as an LPN. And then you still have to go ahead and do the RN and take out more money. Plus you're not guaranteed a job even if you do get the LPN.

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I agree with Itsmejuli. That sounds like way too much to pay to get an LPN degree.

Getting your CNA license would be a good thing if you have a while to wait--both schools and employers will look at work experience when comparing you to other candidates, so working as a CNA is a good way to spend the time racking up real-world experience in your chosen field.

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Are you on the wait list for a BSN program? If not, while you are waiting to get into the ADN program you can take pre-requisites and general education classes that will apply to a RN-BSN bridge program. That way, you don't feel like you are just sitting around waiting. Plus it'll make the bridge to the BSN quicker after you get your associates degree.

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Are you on the wait list for a BSN program? If not, while you are waiting to get into the ADN program you can take pre-requisites and general education classes that will apply to a RN-BSN bridge program. That way, you don't feel like you are just sitting around waiting. Plus it'll make the bridge to the BSN quicker after you get your associates degree.

This is exactly what I am doing, along with many other students who are waiting with me.

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