When to start nursing school? Fall 2010 Spring 2011??

[ravenmothermary]

Hello All,

I have a very tough decision and I need help to decide how to proceed.

I will be able to apply to nursing school for the fall this year. My grades are awesome, so I dont fear rejection. (I have A's in every prerequisite). So here is the delimma.

I am currently the breadwinner but I would have to quit my job to go to nursing school. They will not allow me to work part time. I will work during my school elsewhere.

If I start nursing school this fall, I could be dont with the ADN program end of 2011 with the summer courses.

If I start 2011, I will finish end of 2012 but money would be easier to manage.

As far as tuition, several hospitals around here will pay for my college expenses if I sign a two year contract.

I only have to worry about living expenses which is necessary because I am married with a 5 year old.

Any thoughts, opinions, suggestions, anything would help. Being a nurse is my dream and I dont want to jepordize it.

Thanks,

Mary

[aura_of_laura]

Tough call! Have you applied for financial aid yet? Depending on how much you made last year, and how much your program is going to cost, your loans and grants may pay for most of your tuition. In my opinion, the longer you put something off, the less chance you have of accomplishing it. If it's at all feasible, I'd start as soon as possible! Plus, a lot of programs will give you the option of stopping for a semester or even a year if it becomes too demanding. Is your husband supportive? Even if he doesn't make the same amount of money, willingness to help around the house and with childcare (and to listen to tales of woe!) will be invaluable..!

Good luck!

[jadedgreeneyes]

I'm afraid I'm with Lauraecompton, if there is anyway possible you can start sooner I would highly recommend it. I am currently in my first semester of school and oh how I wish I had started sooner when I had the opportunity. I have put it off for the last 2 years because something always came up and it kills me to think how much further along I could be! The finances suck but at least I am finally doing what I have always wanted to!