Yale GEPN vs. TRCC RN? HELP!

[seaw92]

Hello All. I'm new to this and in a flap. I have two days to make the decision of a lifetime. I've been offered a waitlist position for Yale's GEPN FP program and have to give them an answer by Wednesday. In the meantime, I've also been accepted to our local community college's highly competetive RN program. Which to choose?

Here's the dilemma. I'm 40, have adopted two special needs kids, and am a Navy spouse. We live about 50 miles from New Haven. If I went to Yale, I would have to commute everyday. The schedule sounds tough. I know I could do it, but if my husband is deployed or my kids are in need, family comes first for me. Yale is an amazing program, particularily as I want to work with underserved populations. However is all the stress, the HUGE debt, the travel, and time away from my 7 and 9 year old worth the 3 year route to an NP? Or would I be better with a 2 year RN that I can actually pay for out of pocket and then go on to an MSN/NP in three years after my husband gets out of the Navy. He wants to be a high school teacher then, so will have more time to be with the children.

Sadly, no financial aid is available now -- not even on a Navy salary -- do you think it would be then? Plus, I read in someone's posting that RN entry to the NP program is tough as the students already have formed their bonds. I know at the interviews, I felt as though I was one of the oldest people in the room. Is that really the case? What are the demographics so far?

I know it's a lot to ask, but I'm searching for some inspiration here. My pros and cons list is simply staring back at me. HELP! All input is welcome.

[May_baby]

The RN program might be more flexible in terms of your family's needs. That said, if you decide on the GEPN program please send me a message. I would be happy to find a study buddy!!!

[dg05, RN]

You can pay out of pocket, it's more flexible, and it's a much shorter commute -- sounds like the community college is the way to go especially since it's only going to be an extra year. I'm in a direct entry program now and I have no children or spouse and no commute and I feel overwhelmed and exhausted. That's not to say I'm not excited to be where I am just that if I were in your situation I'd definitely make a different decision. Yale is awesome and prestigious and wonderful so the lure is to go there just because of those things but does it fit with your other life goals? With your overall life plan? With your ability to care for two special needs kids?

I usually don't give advice but you asked and I'm in the mood...Let us know what you decide!

[RN28MD]

hello seaw92

I think you have to think what is it that you really want. Do you have any medical background?? I am not an NP but I am an RN and have had my liscence since 2004 and have always wanted to do NP right out of school. BUT it sounds great and all but I feel that and is my opinion only, that you need to get more experience before jumping the gun. On the other hand if this is what you really want, then go for it. You know yourself better than we do. Keep in mind that TRCC is in Norwich and is not as close as you think. It take about 30-35 min to get there. Yale would be about 50-60min.

You need to know what support system you have. Nursing school for RN degree is no joke. I can't imagine the GEPN program being any better. You will have moments that you will want to pull your hair out. Make sure you have someone there to take care of your kids when you have to run to the library. Sorry you asked. Good luck

[seaw92]

Thanks to all who offered their opinions and insights. No, I'm not sorry I asked.

I've made my decision and sent my regrets to Yale today. Family and quality of life issues are more important to me right now than prestige and debt:) Who knows, maybe in another few years I'll try again.

Best of luck to you all...and particularly to the next person on the FNP waiting list!

Namaste.