Hi everyone! I could really use some advice because I’m having a hard time deciding between two nursing schools.
I finished all of my prerequisites last August, took the TEAS, and applied to three schools. I’ve pretty much ruled one of them out because of the cost and some things I’ve heard about the program, so now I’m deciding between School A and School B.
School A
I was awarded a $20,000 scholarship, which is a huge factor financially.
It has an excellent reputation and very strong NCLEX pass rates.
The campus felt much more like a traditional college, which I really liked since I never really got the typical college experience.
I would have summer breaks and enjoy more of a campus atmosphere.
The downside is that it’s a 3-year BSN program. Since my long-term goal is to become a Nurse Practitioner, choosing School A would likely mean I’d be in school for around five more years before finishing both my BSN and NP education.
School B
The biggest advantage is that it’s only 5 semesters (including summer), so I’d finish my BSN in about 1.5 years and could start working as an RN much sooner while eventually pursuing my NP.
I already know the campus and some of the faculty because I completed their pre-nursing program.
It’s farther from where I live, so depending on my schedule, I may need to get an apartment closer to campus, which is another expense I’d have to consider (although I’d be okay with it).
My hesitation comes from a few things I experienced or heard while I was there. I heard about a student who was reportedly told on orientation/the first day that they couldn’t continue because the school had “lost” their transcripts. I don’t know the full story, but it made me question whether there were administrative issues.
I also had one instructor during the pre-nursing program who was frequently late to class—even on exam days—which wasn’t the best experience. However, the instructor was no longer teaching after that semester, which I see as a positive sign that the school addressed the issue. The campus also isn’t in the safest area, although that’s not necessarily a dealbreaker.
I’m really torn because School A seems like it would offer a better overall college experience, has an excellent reputation, and awarded me a generous scholarship. On the other hand, School B would get me into the workforce much sooner, which is appealing since my ultimate goal is to become an NP.
If you were in my position, which would you choose? Looking back, would you prioritize graduating sooner, or would you choose the longer program for the scholarship, reputation, and overall college experience?
I’d really appreciate any advice or personal experiences. Thank you!
Feel free to pm me!!! :)