If you've done some reading about nursing schools and programs, you should be aware by now that the competition out there is no easy matter. You either have to give it your best shot or not do it at all. But just in case you're applying to nursing schools just for the thrill of it, then you could sure use these tips.
When you send in your application to a nursing school,
you should know that you'll be vying for some very fiercely-competed slots, where most candidates will be bringing their A game. To even have a shot at being accepted, you need to put your best foot forward as well.
On the other hand, if you just want to get a kick out of applying and really just want to be rejected, follow these five tips.
Tip 1. Don't worry about your grades.
Your enthusiasm should be what counts, right? So you had a bad year at school...or two. Why would a nursing school recruiter worry about that?
The truth is, with a GPA lower than 3.0, some nursing schools won't even spare a glance at your application. Most actually have more 3.5s and even 4.0s applying than they have room for. Think about this. With all the would-be nursing students bringing GPAs of 3.5 and higher, your 2.8 GPA should give you practically zero chances for securing a slot.
Tip 2. Spare no though for your credit as well.
Sure, you want to go to nursing school, but you also want that big screen TV NOW. By all means, don't hold back on any of those temptations. Why not juggle the bills if things get a bit tight for a while? I'll tell you why. Because getting into high credit card debt and establishing yourself as a credit risk, will greatly diminish your chances of being approved a student loan for your nursing education.
Tip 3. Leave off any unfavorable records from your application documents.
Hmm, that DUI conviction you had a few years ago might not impress anyone when you're applying to nursing school...best to leave it off, right? Wrong. Although a criminal conviction may well keep you from going to nursing school, hiding it is definitely not going to help. You may be able to plead your case with the State Board of Nursing. And definitely, the more time that's passed since any conviction, the better off you are. Besides, it's not as if they won't find out because they definitely will -- and then you'll be left with no options at all.
Tip 4. When you interview, let them know how important that you are.
You set high standards for yourself and certainly, you trust that tasks like making beds, giving baths to patients, changing bedpans, and the like, would be left to the nurse's aides, not to nursing student like you.
Tip 5. Don't bother finding out what kind of nursing school entrance exam they have.
And if you do find out what type of test it is, don't buy the recommended books and don't bother studying and brushing up on your math skills and English skills. After all, you should concentrate all your study efforts AFTER you get accepted, right?
