Work, Free time, and DNP program. Is it possible?

[Amber307]

Hello all! I am currently a direct admit freshman nursing student at Arizona State University! :) I know I am getting a little ahead of myself here, but I'd like to ask anyways:

My plan is to earn my BSN and work for a year, then enroll in ASU's 3 year DNP program. It is a Hybrid-online program and is said to be designed for students living and/or working off campus.

While enrolled in the program, I want to work part time and of course have some free time and I guess I am just hoping some DNP graduates can answer me this question:

How was it for you, working and getting your DNP? And did you have any free time?

I do understand that it is going to be hard and a lot of work. I can tell you right now that I am a very determined student and I am very enthusiastic and excited about becoming a nurse :) I absolutely can't wait. I know that I have the strength to get through both the BSN and DNP programs come what may, but I am just curious to see and read about others' experiences with school, work, and free time and maybe some tips on how to balance the three?

Thank you!! :)

[Amber307]

Any info would be greatly appreciated!! :)

[christvs, DNP, RN, NP]

Hello! I work full time as an NP and I also am enrolled part time in an online DNP program that I love. I'm taking my 3rd class now. I chose an online program because I know I have to work full time, so an online program is so flexible in that I like to log on at breaks at work, after work, weekends...and I don't have to worry about changing my work schedule. I may take up to 2 classes some semesters so I can try to finish in not too long, but it is doable. Besides school and work, I do other fun things like exercise, go to church, take singing lessons, hang out with my boyfriend and friends and family, so it is possible to still have a life. You just need to balance everything. Good luck! :)