If you’re an aspiring nurse, there are multiple things you can do to increase your chances of getting into the right nursing school for you. However, the first step is to determine what exactly is right for you. This can be done through research into the degree you plan to pursue, as well as considering other factors such as the school’s location, your preferred learning style, and tuition costs. Outlined below are 3 tips you can follow to make your pursuit of a nursing career successful.
Do your research
If you want to increase your chances of getting accepted into nursing school, you will need to do your research. According to AllNursingSchools, there are a wide range of degrees you can pursue in the nursing field such as a licensed practical nurse (LPN), associate degree in nursing (ADN), registered nurse (RN), or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Each of these career paths requires different levels of education as well as certain prerequisite requirements. Different nursing programs each come with their own unique benefits dependent upon the kind of student you are, so it is important to practice your due diligence when considering what exactly it is that you will need to succeed.
Throughout your research, you’ll need to determine a realistic timeline to complete your degree. Dependent upon the program you choose, you could complete your degree in as fast as 12 months. However, most accredited nursing schools have a 2-year or 4-year program. By researching the available programs and requirements, you will be able to make a better decision on your path to a nursing degree.
Other factors to consider throughout your research would be things such as your future goals, your preferred learning style, the amount of hands-on training that would be provided, where the school is located, and tuition costs.
Find the right school for you
Location is key. It can have a make-it or break-it impact on your success, especially while pursuing your degree in nursing. When considering which school may be the best fit for you, you need to ask yourself several different questions. CollegiateParent, for example, suggests you consider what setting is right for you. Do you see yourself attending a large state university or would you prefer a smaller community-based college? Do you prefer city life or is the rural setting more your style? Even if you are considering an online-based nursing program, there is a good chance you will need to be on-site for specific labs and other practicums needed, so ensuring that you are looking into schools that fit into your comfort zone and lifestyle is essential.
Other factors that go into determining where to attend nursing school would be whether you plan to live on or off-campus. If you prefer a commute, then housing may not be a necessary factor to consider. However, if you plan to have a residential experience throughout your education, then you will need to consider your housing options as well as the setting in which the school is located.
You may also begin to question the tuition and fees associated with each accredited school. How will you pay for school? Will you plan to take out a loan, or are you planning to pay out of pocket? Will you investigate further into scholarship programs provided by these schools? If so, you will need to consider the scholarship opportunities provided by these schools as well as the tuition and fees that are required to attend.
An example of a school you may discover during your research would be Berry College, a nursing school in Georgia. They have a 4-year nursing program that provides nursing majors hands-on learning opportunities taught by their faculty team. They also provide students with internship opportunities and hands-on training through simulated hospital situations and clinical rotations.
Talk to an admissions representative
Lastly, talking to an admission representative is vital. Regardless of the program or route that you plan to take, you will want to talk to someone in admissions to help create a connection with them. They are available to help you discuss any of your future goals and aspirations, as well as any questions you may have throughout the process. This is the time you can also begin to explore the scholarship programs and opportunities the school may provide.
Depending on the program you choose, the level of support may vary depending on the school chosen. There may be opportunities available to talk to their faculty or sit in on one of their classes to get a feel for how they are taught. They will be your main source of support throughout the enrollment process and are readily available to answer any questions you may have.