Which CRNA school would you choose?

CougRN · Dec 21, 2003

Tough choice. But the one thing that stands out for me would be less lame nursing classes at School B but School A sounds like a great all around program too. I think I would probably go with School B due to the proximity and less commute. Again though, tough choice. Best of luck.

Sarah Kat · Dec 21, 2003

Personally, I think I might go with school B because only 12 people, less expensive, and closer. Mainly because of the class size. I love small classes.

gonnabe · Dec 21, 2003

OK-here's how I see it-hopefully this will help you decide.

1) There is a difference in cost but generally most people I have talked to said throw this equation out-loans, loans loans and earning potential means you will have money available to you-if it means taking out more and going where you want to go don't worry about that part.

2) Learning styles are different-but what is your learning style? Do you need the simulator stuff or can you do without? It's what you put into it. Lots of people go to programs without all the bells and whistles and come out great CRNA's.

3) What is your preference for class size? Small can be nice and cohesive but you can also have diverse personalities and end up with little support (have seen both at the program at my hospital) who has class size of 12-14. Large may give you a better opportunity to find someone who has similar study habits and outlook as yourself.

4) What is a normal commute for you?? Have you only ever driven 15 minutes or so to work normally? I routinely drive 45 minutes to work and think that's just fine-I used to live somewhere that took an hour or more so the 45 minutes seems great to me. Will that length of commuting wear you down over time and make you feel like you can't take it anymore? Some people may say that it is wasted time you could be studying but you can also use it as decompression time-which I think is a very important part of the process.

5) How flexible are you? Will it bother you that you will have to change your schedule up based on the needs of the OR. Spent all that time on your care plan to find out you have totally different patients that have no disease process even close to what you planned for? This may also have a cumulative effect and add to the stress you are already experiencing from classes.

6) Don't see the number of calls days as an issue-anesthesia school is tough and a couple more days isn't likely to kill you.

7) How much will it bother you to have to take a couple of extra core courses (generally BS classes anyway-mostly time consuming) You said one starts May and other starts Aug-are they same length or who will you come out earlier with-and is that a consideration for you? I know I want to be out as soon as possible.

8) and finally. . . . how did you feel during your interviews? Did you get a warm fuzzy from one more than another? Think you can endure any of the other junk to go to a place you feel better about the people-they are a very important part of the whole process. You need as much support and positive surroundings as possible.

Just my two cents-hope this helps!

TraumaNurse · Jan 1, 2004

Just to let you guys know that I decided to go to school B. Both programs were clinically similar and excellent. I chose B because it is very close to my house and the short commute means I get more time either with my kids or studying instead of driving. School B is also much cheaper and it starts in May, where the other school starts in the fall. Early start...early finish (both programs are 27 months)! I am excited to get started. Thanks to all for your input.

Toby's mum · Jan 1, 2004

Congratulations TraumaNurse!

It sounds like choice B is the right decision for you, for all the right reasons. If you feel comfortable, would you mind revealing the CRNA school names behind choice A and B? I like how you broke down the differences between the two programs and what your decision making process was like. It was very helpful. Wishing you lots of success as you begin the program (and fulfill your dream) :) Stephanie

pleasetakeme · Jan 1, 2004

good luck... :D