How to get ready for nursing school?

Question

I am going to apply for nursing school this fall at a local community college. I know that I am going to have to take refreshing courses this summer because I have been out of school since 1998. I am very nerous about the whole experience since I always hated school. I know that I will have to pass the NET before being accepted to the school. I was wondering if anyone can give me information about things that I can start studing for now. Things that will help me with the NET and also classes. I also was wondering if you think it would be better (easier) to take the required CNA1 class and then get my LPN and work for awhile or go straight for the associates degree to become a RN? I know in my area there is a big difference in pay ($10-$15hr.) but I am worry about the class work load. I need to also be able to work a part time job. Any advise would be helpful! (P.S. I have already talked to someone at the college and they really did guide me very well about what to do.)
Thanks

Answer 1

I had been out of school for 20 something years when I decided to go to school to become a LVN(same as LPN). I would advise taking a study skills class if you haven't already done so. It seemed to help me quite a bit.It was a prerequisite were I went to school. I chose to become a LVN because it was so difficult to get into some of the prerequisite classes I needed for RN and then the waiting list for the program was about 2 years (gotta love California!). I am glad I chose the route I did though. It took me about 3 years total because I needed all of the prerequisites to get into the class; anatomy and physiology,math,medical terminology,CNA, etc.I didn't have a background in the medical field and it turns out I really don't care for nursing. The stress and demands of the job are tough. I have finally found a good job doing private nursing. The pay is great and the stress is low. I am really glad though that I didn't spend more time pursuing my RN. It is a personal choice for you on what you decide to do. If your not COMPLETELY sure you are going to like nursing I would advise doing LPN first. You can then later do a LPN to RN program.

Answer 2

Go directly for the associates degree. It will only take a few months longer than the LPN course, if you hit it full-time. I was an LPN for several years, and I never got the time to go back to finish the AD program due to work, financial obligations, etc. Once you get in the trap of making money, it's hard to break for school...remember that. I hate school, too, but when you really want something, nothing will get in your way. You will be studying all of the time, and will be committed to clinical time, so have a talk with all of your family and friends...let them know that you will need their patience and understanding for the next couple of years. Get used to waking early and studying late. Learn to like coffee. Get as much financial aid as you can so you don't have to work as much. You will find ways to do it, I did...and so do many others. Good luck.

Answer 3

Wow, Greg gave you a long answer. I was going to say take Biology. And be sure you can stand being around sick people all the time. And that blood and guts don't freak you out.