Change of life
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Teresa · 07-01-2005, 11:21 PM

No, not that one.
Need some help with a change in my life. Our way of life may be changing soon, and for the first time, I am thinking of going back to work (it's been 16 years) But, I just can't make the kind of money I used to make with only SOME college.

So, I'm really thinking of going back to school. The problems are many, but I think I could do it. I need to make a decision.

Option A: Go to a 4 yr. B/S program and end as a Registered Nurse (mom is one, I know the benefits of this)

Option B: Go to a 2 year program, become a Liscensed Practical Nurse (LPN), then work as one, and go to school part time for a while to get the RN, but possibly not end up with a B/S

Mom is an RN, so I know that they have more options for careeres than LPNs. But, The sooner I can do this, the better.

Oh, I did go to college for 2 years, but I quit 20 years ago. I think that my records have all been destroyed.

I'm a bit scared (haven't worked since the week before DH and I got married) and really don't know where to go, but I have always wanted to be a nurse.

disneyxscollectr · 07-01-2005, 11:29 PM

The good thing about option 2 is that you will be able to make money while you are going for your RN. That will help with the tuition and give you current work experience.

If you went to school 20 years ago, they still have your records. You may be able to transfer credits and get life experience credits too. I would go this route first. Contact your prior college and get your transcripts. Then meet with an admissions counsellor at the college you want to go to and see what they can do for you. You may be pleasantly surprised.... they may take 3/4 of your credits and you will be ahead of the game.

I would go with Option 2 if you have to start from scratch.

Good luck,
Maria

lauren-roxy · 07-01-2005, 11:35 PM

They have programs to become an RN that are less than 4 years, you might want to look into one of those. Being an RN, I strongly suggest you get your RN. LPNs work just as hard as RNs and do more work for less pay. They may [ay for some of your college, but they may not work around your schedule. See what works best for you, it's a career that is always in demand! Good luck!!!

snoozy · 07-01-2005, 11:44 PM

First off the school you attended should have a transcript on you. A transcript is a permenant record and should never be destroyed. You could go all the way back to your high school and get that transcript if you need to.

I can't make up your mind for you, all I can say is that you should do what you feel most comfortable doing. That will take some reflection on your part. But, I will say this I think it is wonderful that you want to go back to school.

**cjadkins** · 07-02-2005, 05:06 AM

I'd say go with Option A. I've seen too many people say they were going to finish a degree by working and going to school at night, and it just becomes too much and they quit and never get the degree. Option A gives you time to dedicate your full attention to your schooling and not have to be worried about juggling a work/school schedule and exhausting youself. Just my opinion!

to help you make the decision!

wheatenwalker · 07-02-2005, 06:26 AM

I have to vote for becoming an RN too- the pay is better and the job opportunities are greater. Arent there 2 year RN programs where you live? Many community colleges, here anyway, have 2 year associate degree programs. Good luck with your decision! Sheila

**Colexis Mom** · 07-02-2005, 07:01 AM

Another vote for Option A

Good luck to you Teresa

**disneymom9092** · 07-02-2005, 07:55 AM

A tough one Teresa. First of all, I am an RN with a BSN, so I may be biased. If you first start as an LPN, then an Associates degree RN, then you go back for your BSN, it will come to more years total than if you went for your BSN from the beginning. Your college should definately have your transcripts, even after 20 years. This should help with all the "common core" requirements and should cut down on the length of time for your BSN-at least you could spend more time focusing on those subjects.
I think alot of it boils down to what do you want to do when you have your license? Doctor's office, ECF, hospital nursing? I know that our hospital has stopped hiring LPN's and we just hire RN's and certified nurses aides. Seems sad I know!
Good luck in whatever you decide. There is such a shortage of nurses you will be in great demand no matter what you choose. Please keep us posted!

loobyoxlip · 07-02-2005, 09:07 AM

I am in the exact same boat, Teresa, and I would definitely go with option A. I do NOT want to be working full time and going to school - ugh.

**DrDolphin** · 07-02-2005, 09:30 AM

I would recommend option A.

AmyJune · 07-02-2005, 09:41 AM

I don't know if you have options on what colleges you go to but I'd do a little shopping first. Your old college will have your transcripts and you should be able to transfer some of your work in. Different colleges will take different things so look to see who will give you the most credits.

My mom got an assoicates in Physical Therapy and worked for years. She then went back to school to become a RN. It's really a hard decision. I think if you can afford to stay and get your BSN then do it. IF not go get an LPN and work your way thru. The other benefit is occassionally you can get the hospital you work at to help pay for schooling if you promise to stay after you've received your RN.

Good luck whatever you decide!

**Cam22** · 07-02-2005, 09:43 AM

Another vote for Option A as it seems to hold the best future.

disneylandfan28 · 07-02-2005, 12:44 PM

[ QUOTE ]
Another vote for Option A

Good luck to you Teresa

[/ QUOTE ]

lablady · 07-02-2005, 12:57 PM

Another vote for option A! I got my associate degree in Med Lab Tech (the bachelors wasn't even offered at that time in Alaska) and have worked ever since. Now the Bachelor degree is available and I'm back in school and working and it's definitely stressful. The schedules can really be a pain to juggle!

Teresa · 07-02-2005, 02:07 PM

Well, I made a decision last night. DH isn't too happy. The reason I quit working so long ago was that we were just married, with a 12 yr. old (his) and 2 6 yr. olds (1 is his, one mine) We have a 12 yr. old and a 7 yr old now.

But, I decided to go for my BS, and then tranfer to the nursing program in the 2nd year (that's the way the university does it)
All of my classes were taken at IUPUI (Indiana University, Purdue University at Indianapolis) and that is where I will go back. They have an online search for previous credits, and I filled that out last night. Should know in a couple of days.

Now, I just have to get up the nerve to go apply.