Work and school...is it possible?

squidbillies · Nov 20, 2013

In my accelerated program, I worked part time and it was fine. I had an infant, 3 year old, and somewhat needy husband. If I were single, I would have easily been able to work closer to full time. A girlfriend in my class worked 3 12s per week and picked up shifts here and there throughout the whole program. She's a single mother but has a bit of support from family. I think it depends on your personal circumstances as well as your semester course load. Also, if your program is accelerated or not would make some difference too, IMO. Overall, I saw yes, it's possible. Full time? Eh, idk if it's really feasible. Good luck.

LPN709 · Nov 20, 2013

I wouldn't try working and risk it...at least at first. Assuming your program is similar to how mine was, there comes a point when you do nothing but clinicals and get ready for the nclex. You may be able to work some then. But in the beginning when we had a test every day and you had to spend all day at school and then go home and study another 6 hours and go through a&p and med surg...it seems impossible to work. I barely had time to do my own laundry lol much less work. But of course everyone is different. I would suggest not working if you can but it's up to you. Good luck!

Philly_LPN_Girl, LPN · Nov 20, 2013

In my accelerated program, I worked part time and it was fine. I had an infant, 3 year old, and somewhat needy husband. If I were single, I would have easily been able to work closer to full time. A girlfriend in my class worked 3 12s per week and picked up shifts here and there throughout the whole program. She's a single mother but has a bit of support from family. I think it depends on your personal circumstances as well as your semester course load. Also, if your program is accelerated or not would make some difference too, IMO. Overall, I saw yes, it's possible. Full time? Eh, idk if it's really feasible. Good luck.

Yes, it is possible. It may be a little more stressful and too much but can be done AND, it all depends on your situation, you, if you have kids, support, etc.

stephanie10414 · Nov 21, 2013

Thanks everyone for your input.

DrkCocoMurse215 · Nov 21, 2013

I work 32-40 hrs a week and in still getting all As, it's not easy but doable

ASPIRING2BGREAT · Nov 21, 2013

Everyone's personality, needs, and desires are different.

I started my program August 5th, evenings 5:30-10pm & every other Sunday. I also work FT days M-F, 9 & 4 year old, and married( there's my life lol). Not working at this time in my life isn't an option. I don't attend a traditional vocational or college, so this might be the difference, but I will say it has been very do able. As many has already said, it isn't easy, does take some planning and organizing, and lot of support.

I do look forward to completing this class while working. Look at all your options and plan according to your needs.

Best of luck!

2ndCareer_Nurse2B · Dec 16, 2013

Although I have not started the LPN program yet, I believe working is doable, but isn't adviseable. Of course students need time to plan, study, and study some more, but in today's society this is not always possible. For me, it's simple...I HAVE TO WORK! Yes, I have a husband, but I also have bills to pay and children that need to be fed. My employer is also paying for my schooling, so I'm obligated to work. I refuse to take out additional loans. IMO, you'll have more time to study if you didn't work. However, with good time management skills, you should be able to use your time wisely while you work.

Philly_LPN_Girl, LPN · Dec 16, 2013

It is doable and possible BUT, if you can afford not to work and or work less hours as possible, then that would be wayyyyy better so that you will have more time to focus and study and be less tired.

My school advised us not to work no more than 16 hrs a week if possible. However with good time management and being focused, you will make it. Good Luck

Compassion_x · Dec 16, 2013

I worked part time during my LPN program and did just fine. I had a 4.0 my first semester, and 3.5s after. However, starting my LPN-RN program, I have stopped working (although truly I didn't have a choice - work made me choose between them and school).

mmtorrez89 · Dec 16, 2013

It is VERY possible. I even blogged about my experiences with that. I am a single mother, work two jobs at two hospitals, am dual enrolled full time in two colleges, maintained a social life with my six year old, and tended to house and home. Its not easy, but its very doable. There are enough hours in the day. Sure you may not get 8 hours of sleep, but you can survive on 5, your body adapts. Good luck , keep your goal in mind and you will do just fine.

stephanie10414 · Dec 16, 2013

Thanks everyone, my ultimate goal was to leave work during my schooling ( I work at a daycare) but I've been working since I was 16 and now I'm 22, and I can't really imagine not working at all anymore. I am surely cutting my hours though, so I have enough time to study.