Would you have moved OOS for FNP school?

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Hello Allnurses family,

After about 3 years of soul searching, I have finally decided to take the plunge and pursue grad school for FNP. I have tirelessly done my research. There is only 1 school in my state that has explicitly stated that they provide precepetors for clinicals. This school is about $20,000 a semester. I can't afford that. However, something told me to see what some of the adjacent schools do. I found 3 schools, all in different states that I spoke with someone who informed me that they set it up.

Of course I am looking into other things in a program, but I keep hearing over and over about the preceptor issue. I got accepted into a program last year that did not and at the last minute, I felt that I was making a mistake. I bowed out and lost my $200 deposit and some other fees. Prior to rescinding my acceptance, I put feelers out there with the few resources I had without any interest. I hate asking my own family for help. Let alone a stranger.

Moving involves so many moving pieces, including my husband, who supports me either way, my children, and that I have never lived anywhere else butmy home state. But I only want to do this once and right. This could be an adventure for us. But is this too much of a sacrifice when other students are able to get in and get out and are now working. I know this was long. I feel a little better just venting this. Did anyone move OOS for school? How was the experience?

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I am a CNS, not an NP, but I and my long-time boyfriend (living together) at the time (and our dog) moved for me to attend graduate school (my first-choice program), not just out of state, but to an entirely different region of the country. There were no children involved. It was a lot of hassle and expense, but definitely worth it for the opportunity to attend that specific program and school. School was difficult and stressful, but that would also have been true if I'd been in school in my own town, so I don't consider that an issue.

Are you thinking of moving the entire family? Is it possible for you to get a room or efficiency where the school is and commute home on weekends, or something like that? Do the schools have any graduate student housing available? Any other nursing students who would like to have a part-time roommate? There are usually quite a few possibilities once you start looking seriously at your options, and if you're determined to make something work.

Best wishes!

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I didn't move when I was going to to PA school, so probably not. I don't mind travel and driving. If online or hybrid wasn't an option then most likely I would.

I just don't want to be that shmuck who adjusts their entire life when Joe Blow down the street does the entire program online for the same result.

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Specializes in ICU.

I just don't want to be that shmuck who adjusts their entire life when Joe Blow down the street does the entire program online for the same result.

Just call me Mrs Schmuck! ;)

We moved out of state, 1,000 miles away (to a place we'd never been) for my program. "We" = me, my husband and 3 kiddos! And I have to argue that the result will Not be the same as if I had stayed put (since no actual schools nearby offered my program- I'd be stuck doing it through an online diploma mill and not getting anywhere near the amazing experiences I'm having now).

It was worth the sacrifice (and I'm not even done yet)!! You need to do what is best for you and your family though. If you feel another program in a different state is better- and your family supports it- then I think it makes sense to move. But my opinion is very personally based...as I'm the "poster schmuck" for moving for an NP program! :)

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Specializes in Emergency Department.

I would do it if it offers better opportunities in the future (which it will, since you will be a NP). Good luck!!

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