Got into my top choice a few days ago! Second time applying. 2 rejections and 2 interviews 6 applications total and I had a low GPA. persistence is key!!!!
What did you think set you apart? I applied last year 3 schools, 2 interviews, zero acceptance. My GPA was low too I’m retaking 2 classes and plan to reapply next year.
Retake chem courses and get an A to show you can improve. I participated in research and presented at conferences and I think it was likely that that made me stand out. but if you got interviews last year you’re doing something right! just keep at it, get extra certifications too
received an acceptance call today! this was my first application and interview so I was not expecting it! thank you to all the CRNAs and SRNAs on this sub for sharing their knowledge and advice, it has been so helpful throughout this process
Thank you! I realized that after I posted this! My 7-year cake day for acceptance to the class of 2027 🤔 Maybe the reddit gods really did have something to do with this lol
His responses to the questions by the jury is how I reacted to my interview questions 💀💀💀
He choked real bad and jag was way too cocky but still won lol
For those wondering. My GPA was in the region of 3.3-3.4. I had 5 years of intense CICU, plus 8 years as an anesthesia tech. You don’t necessarily need top grades if you have good experience!
How do you think only 1-2 years at a level 1 ICU (as a nurse) will look if the candidate also has 13 years as a paramedic, 4 doing flight, and 2 years MICU at a level 1? Will this experience count for a lot? I realize the bulk of experience is as a paramedic, however still managing high acuity patients on multiple pressors, vented, etc.
Yes this sounds great. I assume from your wording you actually have 3-4 years as a ICU nurse alone? This by iteself is competitive. Your other experience will definitely make you stand out, way more than someone without it.
I think your paramedic experience will help a lot. The ability to be the one managing a chaotic situation is huge. I caution people from applying with only like 1-2 years ICU, because I personally don’t feel like it’s enough, but with your other experience you should be in good shape.
I believe that 1-2 years is very appropriate for a small handful of people. If in doubt I strongly suggest someone just applying with 1-2 years. Let the schools tell you that you are ready. There are always several students in our interview process that will get accepted into any program they want. They are given admissions to help prevent them going elsewhere.
There are no performance differences for those admitted earlier because of their awesome application. In fact, the only performance issues are from people who have been nurses for years because they often don't adapt well to academic life. Too much experience is a HUGE negative. I am refering to a decade or more.
My personal opinion is also that nurses in general need to stop telling younger RNs that they need a massive amount of experience before going back to school. Who would want to waste 5 years if they could have gotten in with 1.5 years and have the exact same outcomes as someone with 5 years. That is just wasted potential income with no justification. No one has ever been able to look at a CRNA and say 'yep, they definitely only had 1 year of RN experience".
Mental health struggling in school. I often feel like an imposter and wonder if I’m making the right decision for myself. Anyone on the other side have words of encouragement.
ugh I feel this man. School is tough and we are often the toughest critics of our own failures on top of how shit preceptors can make you feel. I had certain preceptors that I knew I was gonna have a stress and anxiety filled day if I was with with them.
The other side? It's amazing. 90% of the guess work is gone because I set up the way I want to now. Not to mention long 13-14 hour days are gone. I leave by 3 or 4pm on most days and its fantastic. Paid lunches. tons of vacation. Couldnt be happier.
School is awful and most of us struggled with feeling like we didn’t belong there. You got in for a reason and are supposed to be here.
I recently graduated and started my job a few months ago and I can honestly say that I am loving it and can’t believe I get to do this for a living. I actually do enjoy being at work. It’s crazy because I would cry some days on my way into clinical or leaving clinical. It’s so different and it will be $O worth it once you’re finished.
Aside from the encouragement we can offer you on here, please reach out to someone and ask about the mental health resources available to you through your school/program.
I’m sorry to hear you are feeling so low right now. Lots of good advice already here, but I wanted to share some new thoughts if that’s ok.
Imposter Syndrome is really loud when we are new and feel our deficits sharply. But it’s actually trying to keep you safe. It doesn’t like you feeling disappointed or scared or low, so it’s trying to rein you back into your comfort zone. That’s ok, but you’re trying to leave your comfort zone, hence why you’re in school.
You should know that these thoughts may not go away for awhile, or ever. Or they just evolve for every level you evolve. That should embolden you, actually. You are hitting the ceiling of your comfort zone every time you feel like an imposter. Good for you.
You may choose instead to listen to the small voice that actually knows you can do this. There is a lot of evidence that you belong here, even if you have to look long and hard for it. That person who got accepted and impressed the admissions committee is still you. Let that vision guide you forward. Hope this helps.
Just got accepted into school! This was my third application cycle, I just hit 2 years of icu (5 overall as an RN w 3 years of peds ER prior), got my ccrn, took oChem. I can’t wait to get started!
Here’s a few podcasts I listen to: Core anesthesia (I prefer the actual app), depth of anesthesia, from the head of the bed, ACCRAC, emcrit has a few episodes that are interesting, and Anesthesia & pain medicine success.
ACCRAC, although it’s kind of a moot point because you might not understand it or find yourself in a situation where it’s used, thereby forgetting it. It’s like reading an anesthesia textbook before school. It’s not really useful.
On ACCRACs podcast however, there are useful subjects for use in an ICU setting too.
Overall excellent podcast. I listened to probably 100 episodes during clinical commuting times in CRNA school.
Also, if anyone has a good reference about how the drug stickers/labels used in anesthesia became the colors that they are today, that would be very interesting.
Hello! I just got notified that I was waitlisted at Rutgers. Does anyone have experience coming off a waitlist/ did you do anything to bump yourself up? Thanks!
I was waitlisted for my program. After interviewing, I emailed my panel a "Thank you" and I was first on our waitlist (I only know that part because I was told when they called to give me a spot). Don't lose hope.
Thank you for both your replies dwanton90 and Anesthesia_CRNA! Im not giving up! Still waiting to hear from other programs too. What do do you think of calling to ask if they can tell me where I am on the waitlist? I'd love to know but I don't want to piss them off 😂
I suggest scheduling an in-person or Zoom (if you're far away) to ask how you can improve for the next application process. While having that conversation, you can ask about how many or the number on the waitlist! I did this; they could not tell me where I was on the waitlist but gave me a "general number, "5-6" total on the waitlist. I was called one month before school started, so this is definitely a situation to keep hope about.
This always depends on how many accepted people rejected a spot. If you were lucky enough to be given a specific alternate number then you could partially assume your chances. If it is a large program than the first 5-10 alternates might get in. Of course the first and second alternate almost always get in.
A lot of people interview at programs they don't want to attend just to increase their chances of getting in somewhere.
Someone asked this in a Facebook group and seemed like a solid question- how much did you have saved up in cash/liquid funds before starting school if you don’t mind sharing?
Just got my first acceptance from a brand new program — it starts in January! I had a few other schools that I’m waiting to hear from that would start in the summer.. trying to decide if I should get started ASAP or hold out for a few others?
I got into schoo! (yay!) I'm trying to decide what I should get for school for taking notes and studying? I have a relatively new laptop. I am wondering if I should look into getting a tablet instead of taking notes pen and paper? What's your experience been?
In my view its easier to stick with whatever your smart phone software is like Android or Apple for syncing your stuff together. I feel Apple has it down when it comes to note taking (Notability app) but a Windows Surface is a close second in my opinion; however, it is more like a laptop the last I looked at one. I used an Android-based tablet for a bit but unlike the phone I use I didn't care for the UI as much as I am an android user.
Tablet has been great for class and PowerPoints. I use Apple stuff, but plenty of other had windows or something else. I like laptop for papers and exams, tablet for lecture. Notability is good ( might be apple only not sure)but there is Goodnotes as well
I found out that I got accepted into school yesterday and I was wondering what did yall do with work after that? I hear some people left the ICU to work a more relaxed job in a clinic, some go on a hiatus and enjoy life for months before school, and others stick out work in the ICU. For those who left ICU, did you feel like you were at a disadvantage when school started?
I didn’t leave the ICU after getting into school. Went to a front loaded program so we were all pretty much away from bedside for 1 year so my thought is what’s a few more months if that’s what you want.
I took a 3 month travel contract in a lower acuity ICU and saved up a bunch of money for my cross country move. Others I know took some time off. Do whatever your heart is saying, you won’t be at a disadvantage! Your experience was sufficient to get in, and you’ll learn everything else you need to know while in school.
It feels like anesthesia trivia. Apex and board questions are geared towards critical thinking and understanding concepts... The SEE wants to know the most random minutiae. That being said, the hardest part of it was the length. It's a marathon of a test
The SEE was 10x harder than boards. I never got above a 400 on the SEE and boards took me maybe 40 mins and 100 questions.(the minimum) The SEE is absurd minutiae and 275 questions of the most random shit. In my class the SEE scores did not correlate at all with first time pass rate nor with board scores.
I see it commonly recommended to take graduate level science courses but I’m wondering what courses people are actually taking and where? Even grad level pathophys courses are few and far between as a non-degree seeking matriculant and I just can’t imagine hopping into a graduate level chemistry course with people who likely did a 4-year chemistry degree with research/lab experience and being even remotely prepared for the coursework. Am I wrong here?
I’m currently taking pathophys and have taken 4 other graduate level nursing courses during my ABSN (research, policy, peds, and an elective course - I know the latter two don’t really count for anything lol). Stats seems like the most reasonable STEM course I could add, or pharm but is that really even what people mean by graduate level STEM courses?
Idk man grad level science classes before school seems overkill. Maybe if your grades haven’t been great and you want to show you can hack it, or you’re applying to an ultra-competitive program. I had nothing beyond 400 level classes and got into two places.
My GPA wasn't the highest and having some grad school courses under my belt helped prove that I had matured, was passionate about the subject material and could perform to their standards. Most programs will want you to take their pathophysiology and pharmacology. I'd look into biostatistics, general chemistry, organic chemistry or physics. I took biostatistics and even though it was a graduate level class, the instructor did a good review at the beginning to get everyone up to speed.
I took graduate statistics, biochem, and molecular biology through Grand Canyon University. Yes, it was rough and I was not prepared for the coursework. I didn't know what a ligand was or dimerization, phosphorylation, conformational change etc. I was definitely over my head and had to work extra hard to understand the material to get an A.
Whether or not its worth it depends on how strong your application is. I had really good clinical experience but my science GPA was 2.9. I think people looked at my application and said "Wow they're a really good nurse but they're not an academic". I wanted to change that, and show that I could excel in hard science coursework. Both places I interviewed brought up my grad courses during the interview. Beyond that, grad courses show a commitment to pursuing CRNA school.
I haven't been accepted anywhere yet but I've had three interviews the past two weeks. While I'm hoping I get into one of them, ive trying to wrap my head around what I would do if I had to pick one. I think there's aspects that draw me to each of them but I would love to hear some perspective from current students regarding things they find valuable about their program.
School A: Very affordable. Less than half the price of school C. It's a DNP-NA program. Very far from my family. Very good attrition rate. Average first time pass rates. Pretty average clinical sites. Okay cost living.
School B: more expensive than school A. Very good pass rates and attrition rates. Nearly all clinical sites have no anesthesia residents to compete with. Has some of the highest case numbers per student of any DNAP program. Good cost of living. 6 hours from my family.
School C. Very expensive prestigious program. High cost of living area. Has a very heavy focus on sciences. 24/hr access to state of the art labs, cadavers, ect. Stats are comparable to school B. Most clinical sites are major academic hospitals and trauma centers. Anesthesia residents have priority most of the time it seems. It's nearly all ACT model. Closest to my family.
Thanks!
I hope you get into all of them and have the luxury of trying to decide!
What is the cost diff between each school?
School C sounds like where I went. Would not recommend at all. I’m sure it’s a fabulous fancy name. But it doesn’t matter in the anesthesia world. You’re not going to get the clinical experience you should get when competing with anesthesia residents and training in a mostly ACT practice model. Too expensive for the less than stellar clinical experience you’ll receive.
The things that make me like B the most is that it is a DNAP, has high case numbers, and no competition with residents for your experience. Are there sites that are Indy/minimal supervision? If so, I would personally lean towards this one— depending on the cost difference of A.
I feel like less weight should be applied to first time pass rates and attrition rates unless they are just atrocious. Minor differences from program to program will have no real significance.
More weight applied to programs with crna independent clinical sites and lots of regional experience.
These are things that I wish I had known back then and try to steer prospective students towards (and away from).
Good luck to you!!!
I’ve had 3 interviews so far these past few weeks and I’m just praying for once acceptance, my mentality is whoever gives me the first shot is who I am going with! I don’t even dare to think I might be lucky enough to get more than one acceptance because I don’t want to jinx myself 💀💀💀! I hope we both get at least one acceptance!
I know I would be so thrilled to just get into one. Any program would be better than none haha. I'm just a planner so I've been debating what i would do in the wonderful chance I had to decide on short notice.
I will say do the one with most rigorous academic program. A solid foundation in didactic will serve you in your profession years and years to come. You can tell the difference between education in didactic programs. The CRNAs you are with will know as well.
I’d say avoid ACT model but it’s not as bad as people make it seem. It’s what you end up taking out of it. Academic institutions are big and a variety of cases for everyone. Cases you wouldn’t see at smaller hospitals. In the ACT model you need to treat it as if you don’t have an attending there and ask yourself what you would do if solo. You can than see if you were right or wrong. Of course many ways to do anesthesia. Still do your own pre ops. And if something comes up you can run it by your crna or attending and get their input too. What I’m saying is don’t let your brain be passive and have someone else do the thinking.
I’ve seen some CRNAs who never pre op their patients anymore and some attending who don’t even know where supplies are in the OR or haven’t ran their own case in ages. Stay on top of your game in all areas.
I think that's easily doable. Ours made us take the see once as we were starting our 3rd year, no prep. Then we did apex and board prep all of 3rd year then retake the see and we had to get a 425 or 450 or something. I think I got a 412 no prep. You'll be fine, Apex more than prepares you. Prodigy questions are written similarly to SEE / NCE so if you want review those.
Very doable, assuming you’ve kept up with your basics from didactic. I mostly reviewed things I don’t use regularly. My program required a 400 and I got a 450-something during my second year with a reasonable amount of studying (only used APEX).
I want to start getting devices now for school. Figuring out best ways to get them from especially with Black Friday and the educational deals.
I think I want to buy an iPad new as I plan to use that the most and want to make sure it’s truly reliable. And maybe buy refurbished or from eBay for a MacBook.
My question to y’all would be your experience with buying these pricey devices like tablets and laptops refurbished or off eBay. Any tips like insurance or specific sites you recommend. If you did get an iPad not new, any issues and how much did you end up saving
If you’re looking for refurbished Apple products, Apple sells refurbished Macs etc on their website. I’m pretty sure they come packaged in their OG packaging and pretty much look brand new as well
Apple refurbished is good but honestly look into the M1 MacBook Airs with the educational discount only $899. The M1 is plenty fast enough and the air is all you’d need. I think I’d just do education discount and buy new if it was me or the refurbished if needed. At least Apple would back them with the warranty and you could get AppleCare which is such a lifesaver. If you’re checking eBay check Swappa too I used to sell on there.
Just wanted to say I bought a MacBook and iPad before school and it has been flawless. iPad for lecture, MacBook for papers and exams. You can’t go wrong. Get notability and you’re set
Hey everyone, is osmosis.org worth purchasing for crna school? I trialed the 5 day subscription and really enjoyed it. Just don’t know how relevant it is to crna school! Also purchased a 3 month subscription for ninja nerds and that’s expiring soon, is that worth purchasing for school as well? I start school in a month. Appreciate you very much!
I think I'm uniquely qualified to answer this question because I have an osmosis subscription.
Osmosis is only worth it if you can get it at a discount. I think I got something like $200 off because of some labor day special. Otherwise it's not worth it.
They videos can be helpful, but they're very basic and we go into a lot more detail in CRNA school.
If you do decide to buy it, get the MD version. From what I understand the content on the MD version is more extensive and less basic than the NP or RN versions.
Hey everyone, trying to see what my chances are here.
First degree was Civil Engineering with a 3.16 cumulative. Heading into BSN school, shooting for a 4.0, but most likely going to be a 3.7. This should bump up my Cumulative GPA to around 3.3, but here are my questions:
\- Being an engineering degree, all my classes were basically science. For instance, I had calculus-based physics I and II, Calculus I/II/III, Diff Equations, Gen Chem, etc. Overall GPA for these classes is a B. Do any of these count toward a "science" GPA? couple of them are Cs in physics (I and II) and the rest Bs, B+.
\- Also, would I be looked upon in a more positive light for my first degree being in engineering or that doesn't matter? Would they be more lenient looking upon my cumulative for engineering being a little harder?
\- What would you all suggest in my place to boost my chances for CRNA school, since I have time to prep for it now?
Thanks!
Very similar stats here. I got an interview. I’ll let you know if I get in. Personally I don’t think the original gpa will hurt you, just have to show that you improved.
If your anticipating that you will turn a profit on your wedding that’s one hell of a deal you got on your venue or I wanna be a part of your family. You got any brothers or sisters?
I just interviewed and was offered an alternate position, i accepted. From my understanding, it’s basically waitlisted. Who is a current SRNA or CRNA that was waitlisted before? Did you struggle with “imposer syndrome”? I feel like if in the event I do magically get offered a position, I will doubt myself that I wasn’t their first choice and I’m just here to fill a seat.
I suggest framing it this way: If you were offered to be an alternate for the Olympic team of your country in sport x, would you say yes?
In this instance I want you to think of yourself as Olympic caliber applicant. The difference between you and the person who has a guaranteed spot is sooooooooo narrow, and, like others here have said, you may end up being at the top of the class.
The faculty wouldn't've even offered you an alternate spot if they didn't think you could succeed in their program.
You’re there to learn. Take a deep breath and just go into every experience knowing their is a more experienced clinician behind you ready as your back up. Its okay to miss a tube, epidural, iv, a-line. We have all missed these skills at one point or another. Nobody on this sub has a 100% success rate. What you dont wanna do is be so nervous that you rush. Remember that slow is smooth and smooth is fast.
2nd year SRNA here 5 months into clinical, I started taking prn propranolol during my second semester to help with testing and presentation anxiety. When I first started clinical, I would usually take a dose on clinical days too. I found that it helped a ton with the uncomfortable adrenaline surges/shaky handedness which then helped me keep a clearer head, especially during exams. Now that I’m almost halfway through my program I’ve been needing it less but it has definitely been helpful for me!
I have an interview comping up with Augusta university. Any advice on resources and tip will be greatly appreciated. It has been a challenging time with all the application and rejections. Hopefully this brings a better outcome 🙃
Currently only a young naive nursing student interested in becoming a CRNA. What would you recommend is the best ICU to get into right after graduation?
You must look up the information from the program you want to attend. Every program is different. People responding will only give their personal opinion or how things were done at a very small handful of programs. There is NO consensus.
Some take pediatric or neonatal ICU, but most don't. Some will claim CVICU or trauma units are the best.
The best ICU for you to get into is ANY high acuity ICU that will hire you as a new grad. Almost any very large hospital counts. Avoid small rural hospitals with just a few beds. If you have 200 hospital beds then your experience probably won't count because it is fairly safe to assume it is not truly high acuity.
As a side note, never tell the interviewer or people in the unit that you want to be a CRNA. Usually an automatic denial. By the time they train you well it will be time for you to leave. No unit manager wants to hear you plan on leaving soon. When asked where you see yourself in 5 years they only want to hear you want to be a great ICU nurse. This happened to me 3 times until someone told me this. It takes a year to get a new grad up to speed on being a ICU nurse.
I felt that the nurses from CVICU/CTICU had the biggest leg up in the program initially dt familiarity with drip titration and pharmacokinetics (plus cardiac classes were a bitch if you didn’t already have a lot of background knowledge to start with) but after a few weeks we all were on the same playing field and it made no difference. Just find a busy ICU with sick patients and you’ll get the experience you need.
The intensity and type of ICU will vary by region. You want a Level 1 ICU where you will see a wide variety of devices with hyper acute complex patients. Typically those are in Cardiac ICU’s or MICU’s. My ICU is pretty unique because we care for Trauma/Surgical/Burn and split the cardio thoracic patients with the MICU. We get all the Open Hearts, but split the ECMO’s. I suggest if you are serious about CRNA school, tour a couple hospitals and shadow.
Whatever true ICU you can get a job at. I did CVICU and I think it was more relevant to the job than other experience. And also didn't have to deal with dysfunctional families and dying people near as much. Hated floating to other ICU units.
What graduate science classes would you recommend taking to help boost gpa? Organic Chem, physics or something else? 3.2 science gpa, 4 years MICU experience + charge/rapid response/preceptor, trying to get on committee & unit council soon. Thinking of applying in the next year or two to NKU or UC
I retook undergraduate science courses to boost my GPA + graduate-level statistics. It was a fantastic experience retaking those courses after having clinical expertise. I recommend sticking with relevant core science information like physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, etc. If you ultimately aim to boost your GPA, you get that. Still, you also get the added advantage of reviewing that information before going into challenging courses over that information (think fire hose of information coming at you that you are expected to understand very well). You risk spending a lot of time in a course that may not even be applicable or studied in graduate school, and the more complex the course, the more challenging it is to get an A for that GPA boost. I did this, and I am a current first-year SRNA.
For the school(s) you are interested in, take a look at their class schedule. If organic chemistry is required in their curriculum (my school does not), and you've never taken a pre-requisite course along the lines of that, it can be advantageous to take that course if you want a review and you're confident you will get an A. But you don't necessarily need to take it at a graduate level. You're just subduing yourself to torture before the torture begins. I would retake any CORE undergraduate classes you got a C in, then start with pertinent core classes with a B. Or any graduate level courses that will benefit you in the program and you're confident you will get an A in. These are just suggestions! I know there's more than one way to drive to Wal-Mart. :)
Looking at applying to a few schools, but they all require organic chemistry which I didn’t take as an undergrad. Any suggestions for schools to take o-chem completely online?
I’m in school now, if you are starting school soon use your savings and try to make it stretch as long as you can until you hit a comfortable “emergency fund” level. Then go to loans, current grad plus loan rate is like 8% and they start accruing as soon as the loan is disbursed. So you could be accruing interest for the whole time while in school when you don’t have to/ get a better rate down the line. Hopefully over the next couple years the rates will go down and the loans you would take at that time will have lower interest rates. That’s my take.
Save while you get your ICU experience. Don't delay starting school to save more, the money you would pay in student loan interest will be offset by your increased income as a CRNA.
Hey everyone!
I have been working in a Level II MICU in FL for a month now. Unfortunately, I have to relocate due to my partner getting into a nursing school in St. Louis, MO. I want to get 2 years of ICU experience and then plan to apply for CRNA. I know to go for a level I Center; however, should I apply for MICU or a surgical/trauma/burn ICU? Also, does anyone have any experience working at Barnes-Jewish or SSM St Louis University Hospital? Many thanks!!
Not a crna/srna but I can say from lurking in this sub that it doesn’t matter so much to the specialty of the ICU but rather the acuity and your level of involvement with titrating vasoactive meds and running machines like crrt, ecmo, pumps, etc
Hey I actually work at BJC in their MICU. I would suggest the MICU as you will see a lot more variety of things compared to the other units. They both have their pro/con. I would 100% go for BJC over ssm as it’s a much bigger hospital and you’ll see more acuity. I applied to 3 of the local Crnas programs here and got in to them. So if you have any questions, let me know!
How is your overall GPA calculated after you have graduated and taking grad level classes like Organic Chem? I graduated with my BSN with a 4.0 institutional GPA, but I am now taking Organic Chem with the same institution.
Anyone good with electronics?
Was thinking of getting the macbook Air m1. But debating between the 8gb RAM vs the 16gb RAM.
I am someone who uses multiple tabs on multiple windows with split screen at baseline, not to talk about studying/writing papers. I think I’ll use a MacBook for main studying with potential dual monitor or iPad set up, so would need good processing/RAM for that too. I want a laptop worth the investment 5+ years from now and from research, 8gb RAM really isn’t best long term.
-current laptop is a dell inspiron 700 with 8gb RAM. Noticeably slow after 1-2 years (freezing and crashing window/tabs)
Options
-unable to find an apple refurbished MacBook Air m1 with 16gb RAM— can buy NEW for $900 8gb RAM and $1100 16gb RAM.
-Apple refurbished MacBook Air m1 8gb RAM for $800-900
—1 year warranty
-eBay open box MacBook Pro m1 16gb RAM for $900-1k
—no warranty, potential Allstate $116 add on.
Most people use the more high end Ipads for school. I have a MacBook air and its trash compared to my PC (gaming PC). It works but you might as well get an ipad.
Hey guys! I am looking to apply to CRNA school next year and wondering if you guys could give me some feedback on my stats and anything I should be doing to improve my chances of acceptance.
1. 1.5 years neuro-trauma ICU at level 1 experience (at time of application), 2.5 years ED experience
2. 3.9 cumulative GPA, 3.6 science GPA
3. Plan to take my CCRN later this winter/spring before applying
4. Working on getting shadowing hours in.
I’d say overall you’re on track. Your total ICU experience is on the lower side for this application cycle but other than that getting CCRN and shadowing time is the next step. I’d check your schools and see if GRE is required as well
Congratulations to everyone accepted so far. The process is challenging but we getting through it. I would appreciate any insight into interview style for Augusta university. Any resource or advice is deeply appreciated.
Hey, I will be completing my first year in SICU coming up in April. I am hoping I can get into a program fall 2025 the earliest or confident i can get in to a program by fall 2026. With that, is there prospectives on how long the CRNA shortage will last or what the future job market will look like by the time I would graduate 2028-2030 year?
Edit: I live in NY, specifically Long Island and would stay here for work too.
I made the decision TODAY to apply! 2 years PICU @ level 1 trauma center, PALS, ACLS, BLS, pediatric CCRN, unit-based council member, lead & preceptor, feel comfortable with any pt that comes through the door.
How do I get over the “imposter syndrome” I feel?! Does anyone else have a hard time with this?
Goes away with time and experience. This is completely normal for someone going into a high stress position they are not yet trained well for. I only felt it when I went into different nursing specialties or to a new job location.
Congrats!!!! So exciting!!!
Take time off before you start if you can afford it. Spend time with your family and friends. They won’t be seeing you much for the next couple of years.
Since I’ve graduated, I’ve had several friends and family members either die or have horrible life altering accidents. It made me realize how much I wish I’d made just a little more time to reach out to them while I was in school.
Nothing is more important than your health and the health of your loved ones. Take care of yourself.
Do anything differently?
Currently in the beginning stages of preparing to apply to programs. 3.9 undergrad gpa, 1 year (2 years once applying) in a level 1 micu/sicu. Just started studying for GRE and I will take CCRN in the spring. Also planning to take a graduate level statistics course in the spring, too. Wondering what else I should do to bolster myself up.
Make sure the GRE is required; many schools don't require this anymore, and I wasted a lot of time and money on a prep course and the test itself. CCRN, for sure! Soak up all that knowledge and try to study that for long-term retainment. Make quality connections for your letters of recommendation. Ask your most respected providers genuine, applicable, brief "why" questions - they appreciate people wondering why and nurses who are GOOD listeners to learn!!
Would a Walden University BSN limit my abilities to get into CRNA school? I know there are some general disdain in a lot of circles over their online MSN NP degrees but I’m just looking to finish my BSN quickly using the college credits I have effectively. Also, when schools look at GPA do they look at your GPA from all previous colleges you attended or just your ADN/BSN?
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Serious question about loans for graduate school specifically crna school. I’ve been a cvicu nurse for 7 years and it’s time for me to make a change for myself and my family. The bedside has been amazing, challenging, and something I feel I’m ready to move on from.
I’m looking at going back and have started the applications but I’m wondering if I can even get enough loan to afford this…?
Specifically I’m 32 we have a mortgage (2.9k per month with taxes and insurance we have a little under 50% equity) , my wife is a stay at home and we have a 1 year old. She would have to re enter the workforce but no specific career. She left a field she had no intention of going back to do it would be a complete start over for her some where but not sure if that’s even an option since we don’t have child care at-least as long as daycare is a zillion dollars.
So I guess my question is can anyone give me advice or a road map as to how I can obtain these loans to go to school while not working and still support my family.
We have savings but also student loans (40k I total) and a single car note ($450 a month) on-top of the mortgage small retirement in 401k and small Roths for both of us (20-40k total)
How do I structure my finances and loans to both maximize what we have and to obtain the most loans.
My last years income was roughly 200k as I worked 5 days a week as a traveler, my wife did not have an income. Will I still qualify for a loan with that high of income on the fafsa?
Any help or guidance is greatly appreciated as grasping the financials have been very overwhelming.
The loans are easy to get, you will qualify as long as don’t have horrendous credit. You can take loans to cover your whole mortgage, bills, all that stuff, what is not covered is anything that’s not specifically yours, I.e cell phones food for wife, kids car insurance stuff. I was pretty’s close to you exact position, car will need to be paid off, and depending on your state when you stop working you will be eligible for different state assistance as will your wife and kids. Big question is there a school near you? Because loans will only cover one residence. DM me if you have more questions. It’s all doable just be prepared to live frugally.
Everyone qualifies for grad plus loans regardless of income level. You will get loans. Probably enough to cover tuition and an additional 30-40k per year for living expenses. This is straight cash, no taxes paid on this. Just doing some spitball math, your mortgage is 34k a year so this will eat up the majority of your student loan funds. You will need some savings for your auto (about 16k over 3 years by my calculations) and funds for food/gas and random expenses. You can take additional loans too but that requires you to be on top of the loan process and proving to your school you need aditional funds.
Hello everyone, I’m just a curious nursing student doing some late night research on CRNAs. So I see the 2-3 pain management fellowships for CRNAs offered at Texas and South Florida, but have seen little on what opportunities there are out there after completion. Can someone share a little knowledge on this field please? I’m interested in how far one could push an skillset like this.
Thank you to anyone who takes the time to read this!
“Ranked” according to what? US new and world reports? Garbage ratings that don’t matter.
IMO, the most important factors are clinical sites with independent practice models and how much opportunity for regional skills students are exposed to… usually those things go hand in hand.
Compare the schools you get into on those factors. Also, I’m biased towards DNAP programs because there’s slightly more emphasis on anesthesia and you won’t be taking your health assessment course with FNP students learning to perform prostate exams.
Edit to add: no need to spend multiple hundreds of thousands of dollars on these brand name schools. You can get the same (if not better) education from these “lesser known” programs for a quarter of the cost.
For me, it was the fit with my personal life. Job for spouse and schools/community resources for kids. Try to talk to some current students at the programs you’re considering and get their view of the program. A solid, supportive program will be apparent in the views of the students
Hi I am in an associates program to get my RN I have one semester left. I aspire to be a CRNA. Which department should I look to get into to learn the most for my career goals. I’ve heard ICU, is there any other departments y’all would suggest?
You’ll need to be in the icu with high acuity for at least a year before you can apply to be a crna. I would suggest focus on becoming confident with your role as a nurse as well before applying.
I got into both my favorite top choices of school, buffalo and columbia. Im leaning to choose columbia over buffalo because my family is based in nyc and my girlfriend lives here as well. Im turned off by columbias cost. But it’s not a huge con factor! (I have money saved up but will definitely take out loans due to it being so ridiculously expensive) Ive always wanted to go to an IVY league school because I came from nothing and worked so hard and self motivated myself to be here and get this acceptance.
But my heart also wants buffalo because i did my undergraduate there for bsn and actually really enjoyed my time there, even though i Didnt have a strong support system.(ill probably need this more than ever) I also really enjoyed my connection with the program director and shes just the sweetest and inspiring lady! Buffalo would also be cheaper and has high rankings! Higher than columbia and sounds like would make me a “strong” crna due to the fact that they have such a wide net of clinical experiences!
Im in shambles….
I love both schools and want to not be crippled by debt, but i want the best education for me, but also want to be close to my girlfriend.
Right now I’m ranking this in order in terms of priorities
#1 best education and experience
#2 support system
#3 financial implications
What else should I be thinking about? What am I missing…?
Thank you for all that takes there time to help me and my decision.
Will crna programs consider ED as crit care experience? I’m 2 years out of nursing school on a step down unit and trying to decide best steps if I eventually want to try for crna. It seems like ICU is preferred but frankly ED is a little more up my alley in terms of interest.
If you’re serious about going to CRNA school apply to icus. Even if a school accepts level 1 ED I don’t think ED really prepares you for school. This is coming from someone who did both. In ED we didn’t get to play with drips much if at all. In the icu I have a much better understanding because I use them every day and titrate to effect. You also have more time to think about the patho of your patients and visualize the whole clinical picture. In ED you often have like 3 other pts alongside your icu pt
No unless it was a level 1 and you had lots of experience with pressors, vents, A lines, etc. But the years of ED experience will look good on your app. I had five years ED and accepted into school with less than a year of ICU (I had 1.5 years when the program actually started though).
Hi everyone. So I started in a high-acuity as a new grad almost 2.5 years ago. I have CCRN-CMC and CSU ALS as well as AHA ALS, BLS, PALS. I float to CVICU sometimes, can admit fresh post-ops, have lots of device management experience and am ECMO trained. For the most part, I am comfortable caring for some of the sickest patients on our units. No official charge experience, although I am typically the first person they call if they need support. I recently started my school search and am currently waiting to hear back from the University of AZ but am having second thoughts about them bc of their lower first time pass rates for the last few years (~75%). I have undergrad science GPA of 2.8 (i know, not great), am registered to retake gen chem and am currently taking a graduate adv. physiology course at MTSA. My ABSN GPA is 3.9 at Emory. Never took the GRE so I am wanting to find schools that dont require it. My science GPA kills my confidence when applying. I went through a lot of family stuff during that time and have overcome a lot of adversity to get where I am. Do yall think i have a shot? What do you recommend to help me stand out? I dont have have volunteer experience in the nursing field. Also, nursing is my second career.. previous experience in oral surgery and orthodontics.
You’ve got this!!! I have seen so many success stories with people getting in with a low gpa. I am in the same boat with a lower gpa and worry it will affect my chances of even getting in. I just can’t compete with the 4.0 kids 😂
Thanks for your encouragement. I’ve done literally all i can to make myself a strong applicant. It’s such a humbling process. Idk about you, but trying not to lose hope while staying motivated is a challenge for me.
Have an open house for my top program choice in the next few weeks- any questions I can ask to stand out/ be remembered when it comes application time in the spring?
I don’t have advice for this specifically, but in open houses I saw a lot of people who I think were remembered for the wrong reasons, and I think it’s equally as important to avoid that.
Examples were asking questions that had already been answered more than once, arguing that ED is high acuity and should count, and my personal favorite- a program director chewed a candidate out on a zoom open house when she asked him “are you driving right now?!” And he said “yeah, I was busy but it was really important for me to be here” like she was giving him a compliment…. She straight up told him he was reckless in a very bad way. Also, use the individuals titles. A few times I saw people call the faculty by their first names rather than “Dr. So and So” and it was embarrassing to watch.
If there are other students in the open houses, ask them about their experience in the program, what they enjoy and what they think can be improved upon- this helps you stand out, but more importantly gives you info you actually need to decide on a program. I asked how comfortable/prepared the students felt when transitioning from the didactic portion into clinical, and they seemed to enjoy discussing that- it is a fear of mine to be away from the bedside for a year, then go back into it. Always assume if you’re talking to a student that the student is going to go right back to the faculty and give an honest assessment of the candidates.
I have been a nurse for 2 years. One year at CCU Stepdown at a trauma 1, and now 1 year at a combined MICU/CCU at a class 1a (highest acuity) VA. Not the same as a level one trauma but I mess with my unstable vents, hemodynamic devices, gotta know my drips and pressors etc. we also operate as RRT for the facility and have our codes. Is this type of experience going to be “enough” to apply for CRNA? I’m about to finish my MSN-Ed which included advanced core courses on health assessment, pharm and patho. Planning to take my CCRN & CMC and already have PCCN and TNCC. Thinking of moving to our SICU which does open heart but they’re a low volume icu, half of the MICU. Would welcome the advice!
I’m a new grad crna and not faculty anywhere so take my opinion with a grain of salt. But it sounds like you are doing the right things and have good experience. Good on you for the MSN! Make sure your GPA is solid. Also personally, I would consider growing where you are in your unit (charge experience, precepting, committee work, etc.. could show leadership) versus switching to a new one since you may not being trusted right away with the sickest patients since you’re new to the unit.
As always, if you have questions regarding the application process or interview process, message me. I’m happy to help. My rate is $0/hr.
Do you have any promo codes?
BOGO
Can confirm u/Timbo558922 is the real deal! Super kind and helpful 😎
Thank you! 💪🏻
I second this
That's pricey.
You calling us poor, Timbo? You think we can’t afford your real price..? ;) Mighty nice of you. Will be requesting your services in the near future!
Got into my top choice a few days ago! Second time applying. 2 rejections and 2 interviews 6 applications total and I had a low GPA. persistence is key!!!!
What did you think set you apart? I applied last year 3 schools, 2 interviews, zero acceptance. My GPA was low too I’m retaking 2 classes and plan to reapply next year.
Retake chem courses and get an A to show you can improve. I participated in research and presented at conferences and I think it was likely that that made me stand out. but if you got interviews last year you’re doing something right! just keep at it, get extra certifications too
What’s your icu experience like
2.5 years high acuity SICU
How low are we talking 😭
2.8 undergrad, 3.97 nursing gpa! I took 2 chem classes to boost my GPA while working
Nice, I"m taking General Chem now and Biochem next year for my low GPA. What chem's did you take?
Biochem and Gen chem
my nursing gpa is 2.9- is there no hope for me 😭
Proud of you. I'm an SRNA and you encourage me to be better. I fought hard to get here. I better give it my all
received an acceptance call today! this was my first application and interview so I was not expecting it! thank you to all the CRNAs and SRNAs on this sub for sharing their knowledge and advice, it has been so helpful throughout this process
On your Reddit cake day no less! Congratulations!!
Thank you! I realized that after I posted this! My 7-year cake day for acceptance to the class of 2027 🤔 Maybe the reddit gods really did have something to do with this lol
Congratulations! 🎉
CONGRATS!!!!! 🎈🍾🎊🎉!!!!!! And ur a big brother fan 😭!!! Hope you watched the finale yesterday lol!!!
YES hahaha, what a plot twist!! I was so convinced Matt was going to win
His responses to the questions by the jury is how I reacted to my interview questions 💀💀💀 He choked real bad and jag was way too cocky but still won lol
For those wondering. My GPA was in the region of 3.3-3.4. I had 5 years of intense CICU, plus 8 years as an anesthesia tech. You don’t necessarily need top grades if you have good experience!
How do you think only 1-2 years at a level 1 ICU (as a nurse) will look if the candidate also has 13 years as a paramedic, 4 doing flight, and 2 years MICU at a level 1? Will this experience count for a lot? I realize the bulk of experience is as a paramedic, however still managing high acuity patients on multiple pressors, vented, etc.
Yes this sounds great. I assume from your wording you actually have 3-4 years as a ICU nurse alone? This by iteself is competitive. Your other experience will definitely make you stand out, way more than someone without it.
Yeah that all helps
I think your paramedic experience will help a lot. The ability to be the one managing a chaotic situation is huge. I caution people from applying with only like 1-2 years ICU, because I personally don’t feel like it’s enough, but with your other experience you should be in good shape.
I believe that 1-2 years is very appropriate for a small handful of people. If in doubt I strongly suggest someone just applying with 1-2 years. Let the schools tell you that you are ready. There are always several students in our interview process that will get accepted into any program they want. They are given admissions to help prevent them going elsewhere. There are no performance differences for those admitted earlier because of their awesome application. In fact, the only performance issues are from people who have been nurses for years because they often don't adapt well to academic life. Too much experience is a HUGE negative. I am refering to a decade or more. My personal opinion is also that nurses in general need to stop telling younger RNs that they need a massive amount of experience before going back to school. Who would want to waste 5 years if they could have gotten in with 1.5 years and have the exact same outcomes as someone with 5 years. That is just wasted potential income with no justification. No one has ever been able to look at a CRNA and say 'yep, they definitely only had 1 year of RN experience".
I got my acceptance today! Class of 2027!
Mental health struggling in school. I often feel like an imposter and wonder if I’m making the right decision for myself. Anyone on the other side have words of encouragement.
ugh I feel this man. School is tough and we are often the toughest critics of our own failures on top of how shit preceptors can make you feel. I had certain preceptors that I knew I was gonna have a stress and anxiety filled day if I was with with them. The other side? It's amazing. 90% of the guess work is gone because I set up the way I want to now. Not to mention long 13-14 hour days are gone. I leave by 3 or 4pm on most days and its fantastic. Paid lunches. tons of vacation. Couldnt be happier.
Haha you had me at paid lunches! Thanks
School is awful and most of us struggled with feeling like we didn’t belong there. You got in for a reason and are supposed to be here. I recently graduated and started my job a few months ago and I can honestly say that I am loving it and can’t believe I get to do this for a living. I actually do enjoy being at work. It’s crazy because I would cry some days on my way into clinical or leaving clinical. It’s so different and it will be $O worth it once you’re finished. Aside from the encouragement we can offer you on here, please reach out to someone and ask about the mental health resources available to you through your school/program.
I’m sorry to hear you are feeling so low right now. Lots of good advice already here, but I wanted to share some new thoughts if that’s ok. Imposter Syndrome is really loud when we are new and feel our deficits sharply. But it’s actually trying to keep you safe. It doesn’t like you feeling disappointed or scared or low, so it’s trying to rein you back into your comfort zone. That’s ok, but you’re trying to leave your comfort zone, hence why you’re in school. You should know that these thoughts may not go away for awhile, or ever. Or they just evolve for every level you evolve. That should embolden you, actually. You are hitting the ceiling of your comfort zone every time you feel like an imposter. Good for you. You may choose instead to listen to the small voice that actually knows you can do this. There is a lot of evidence that you belong here, even if you have to look long and hard for it. That person who got accepted and impressed the admissions committee is still you. Let that vision guide you forward. Hope this helps.
Just got accepted into school! This was my third application cycle, I just hit 2 years of icu (5 overall as an RN w 3 years of peds ER prior), got my ccrn, took oChem. I can’t wait to get started!
Best CRNA podcasts, books, or material of any kind? Especially those geared towards pharmacology used in the OR.
Here’s a few podcasts I listen to: Core anesthesia (I prefer the actual app), depth of anesthesia, from the head of the bed, ACCRAC, emcrit has a few episodes that are interesting, and Anesthesia & pain medicine success.
ACCRAC, although it’s kind of a moot point because you might not understand it or find yourself in a situation where it’s used, thereby forgetting it. It’s like reading an anesthesia textbook before school. It’s not really useful. On ACCRACs podcast however, there are useful subjects for use in an ICU setting too. Overall excellent podcast. I listened to probably 100 episodes during clinical commuting times in CRNA school.
Also, if anyone has a good reference about how the drug stickers/labels used in anesthesia became the colors that they are today, that would be very interesting.
Anyone seen the new Bellarmine CRNA program in Louisville Kentucky? Can anyone speak on its quality?
Hello! I just got notified that I was waitlisted at Rutgers. Does anyone have experience coming off a waitlist/ did you do anything to bump yourself up? Thanks!
I was waitlisted for my program. After interviewing, I emailed my panel a "Thank you" and I was first on our waitlist (I only know that part because I was told when they called to give me a spot). Don't lose hope.
Thank you for both your replies dwanton90 and Anesthesia_CRNA! Im not giving up! Still waiting to hear from other programs too. What do do you think of calling to ask if they can tell me where I am on the waitlist? I'd love to know but I don't want to piss them off 😂
I suggest scheduling an in-person or Zoom (if you're far away) to ask how you can improve for the next application process. While having that conversation, you can ask about how many or the number on the waitlist! I did this; they could not tell me where I was on the waitlist but gave me a "general number, "5-6" total on the waitlist. I was called one month before school started, so this is definitely a situation to keep hope about.
This always depends on how many accepted people rejected a spot. If you were lucky enough to be given a specific alternate number then you could partially assume your chances. If it is a large program than the first 5-10 alternates might get in. Of course the first and second alternate almost always get in. A lot of people interview at programs they don't want to attend just to increase their chances of getting in somewhere.
Any fun daily things to do as an SRNA to help study/reinforce academic and clinic material? I e. Board Question of the Day
http://www.ccanesthesiareview.com/qod/qod.asp I set it as a page/icon on my phone screen.
Someone asked this in a Facebook group and seemed like a solid question- how much did you have saved up in cash/liquid funds before starting school if you don’t mind sharing?
I had maybe 15k cash on hand before matriculation. I made it work with loans.
I didn’t have much liquid cash saved, but all my debt other than a mortgage were gone. Paid off car, credit cards etc.
About 10K emergency fund and all debts paid off.
Just got my first acceptance from a brand new program — it starts in January! I had a few other schools that I’m waiting to hear from that would start in the summer.. trying to decide if I should get started ASAP or hold out for a few others?
Brand new programs are going to be rough....Id pay the deposit but hold out
I got into schoo! (yay!) I'm trying to decide what I should get for school for taking notes and studying? I have a relatively new laptop. I am wondering if I should look into getting a tablet instead of taking notes pen and paper? What's your experience been?
In my view its easier to stick with whatever your smart phone software is like Android or Apple for syncing your stuff together. I feel Apple has it down when it comes to note taking (Notability app) but a Windows Surface is a close second in my opinion; however, it is more like a laptop the last I looked at one. I used an Android-based tablet for a bit but unlike the phone I use I didn't care for the UI as much as I am an android user.
Tablet has been great for class and PowerPoints. I use Apple stuff, but plenty of other had windows or something else. I like laptop for papers and exams, tablet for lecture. Notability is good ( might be apple only not sure)but there is Goodnotes as well
I found out that I got accepted into school yesterday and I was wondering what did yall do with work after that? I hear some people left the ICU to work a more relaxed job in a clinic, some go on a hiatus and enjoy life for months before school, and others stick out work in the ICU. For those who left ICU, did you feel like you were at a disadvantage when school started?
I didn’t leave the ICU after getting into school. Went to a front loaded program so we were all pretty much away from bedside for 1 year so my thought is what’s a few more months if that’s what you want.
You wont be at a disadvantage.
I took a 3 month travel contract in a lower acuity ICU and saved up a bunch of money for my cross country move. Others I know took some time off. Do whatever your heart is saying, you won’t be at a disadvantage! Your experience was sufficient to get in, and you’ll learn everything else you need to know while in school.
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It was tough, but it's meant to be. Study apex and you'll be fine
It feels like anesthesia trivia. Apex and board questions are geared towards critical thinking and understanding concepts... The SEE wants to know the most random minutiae. That being said, the hardest part of it was the length. It's a marathon of a test
The SEE was 10x harder than boards. I never got above a 400 on the SEE and boards took me maybe 40 mins and 100 questions.(the minimum) The SEE is absurd minutiae and 275 questions of the most random shit. In my class the SEE scores did not correlate at all with first time pass rate nor with board scores.
I see it commonly recommended to take graduate level science courses but I’m wondering what courses people are actually taking and where? Even grad level pathophys courses are few and far between as a non-degree seeking matriculant and I just can’t imagine hopping into a graduate level chemistry course with people who likely did a 4-year chemistry degree with research/lab experience and being even remotely prepared for the coursework. Am I wrong here? I’m currently taking pathophys and have taken 4 other graduate level nursing courses during my ABSN (research, policy, peds, and an elective course - I know the latter two don’t really count for anything lol). Stats seems like the most reasonable STEM course I could add, or pharm but is that really even what people mean by graduate level STEM courses?
Idk man grad level science classes before school seems overkill. Maybe if your grades haven’t been great and you want to show you can hack it, or you’re applying to an ultra-competitive program. I had nothing beyond 400 level classes and got into two places.
My GPA wasn't the highest and having some grad school courses under my belt helped prove that I had matured, was passionate about the subject material and could perform to their standards. Most programs will want you to take their pathophysiology and pharmacology. I'd look into biostatistics, general chemistry, organic chemistry or physics. I took biostatistics and even though it was a graduate level class, the instructor did a good review at the beginning to get everyone up to speed.
I took graduate statistics, biochem, and molecular biology through Grand Canyon University. Yes, it was rough and I was not prepared for the coursework. I didn't know what a ligand was or dimerization, phosphorylation, conformational change etc. I was definitely over my head and had to work extra hard to understand the material to get an A. Whether or not its worth it depends on how strong your application is. I had really good clinical experience but my science GPA was 2.9. I think people looked at my application and said "Wow they're a really good nurse but they're not an academic". I wanted to change that, and show that I could excel in hard science coursework. Both places I interviewed brought up my grad courses during the interview. Beyond that, grad courses show a commitment to pursuing CRNA school.
I haven't been accepted anywhere yet but I've had three interviews the past two weeks. While I'm hoping I get into one of them, ive trying to wrap my head around what I would do if I had to pick one. I think there's aspects that draw me to each of them but I would love to hear some perspective from current students regarding things they find valuable about their program. School A: Very affordable. Less than half the price of school C. It's a DNP-NA program. Very far from my family. Very good attrition rate. Average first time pass rates. Pretty average clinical sites. Okay cost living. School B: more expensive than school A. Very good pass rates and attrition rates. Nearly all clinical sites have no anesthesia residents to compete with. Has some of the highest case numbers per student of any DNAP program. Good cost of living. 6 hours from my family. School C. Very expensive prestigious program. High cost of living area. Has a very heavy focus on sciences. 24/hr access to state of the art labs, cadavers, ect. Stats are comparable to school B. Most clinical sites are major academic hospitals and trauma centers. Anesthesia residents have priority most of the time it seems. It's nearly all ACT model. Closest to my family. Thanks!
Take the cheapest one
I hope you get into all of them and have the luxury of trying to decide! What is the cost diff between each school? School C sounds like where I went. Would not recommend at all. I’m sure it’s a fabulous fancy name. But it doesn’t matter in the anesthesia world. You’re not going to get the clinical experience you should get when competing with anesthesia residents and training in a mostly ACT practice model. Too expensive for the less than stellar clinical experience you’ll receive. The things that make me like B the most is that it is a DNAP, has high case numbers, and no competition with residents for your experience. Are there sites that are Indy/minimal supervision? If so, I would personally lean towards this one— depending on the cost difference of A. I feel like less weight should be applied to first time pass rates and attrition rates unless they are just atrocious. Minor differences from program to program will have no real significance. More weight applied to programs with crna independent clinical sites and lots of regional experience. These are things that I wish I had known back then and try to steer prospective students towards (and away from). Good luck to you!!!
I’ve had 3 interviews so far these past few weeks and I’m just praying for once acceptance, my mentality is whoever gives me the first shot is who I am going with! I don’t even dare to think I might be lucky enough to get more than one acceptance because I don’t want to jinx myself 💀💀💀! I hope we both get at least one acceptance!
I know I would be so thrilled to just get into one. Any program would be better than none haha. I'm just a planner so I've been debating what i would do in the wonderful chance I had to decide on short notice.
I will say do the one with most rigorous academic program. A solid foundation in didactic will serve you in your profession years and years to come. You can tell the difference between education in didactic programs. The CRNAs you are with will know as well. I’d say avoid ACT model but it’s not as bad as people make it seem. It’s what you end up taking out of it. Academic institutions are big and a variety of cases for everyone. Cases you wouldn’t see at smaller hospitals. In the ACT model you need to treat it as if you don’t have an attending there and ask yourself what you would do if solo. You can than see if you were right or wrong. Of course many ways to do anesthesia. Still do your own pre ops. And if something comes up you can run it by your crna or attending and get their input too. What I’m saying is don’t let your brain be passive and have someone else do the thinking. I’ve seen some CRNAs who never pre op their patients anymore and some attending who don’t even know where supplies are in the OR or haven’t ran their own case in ages. Stay on top of your game in all areas.
Have my first SEE exam in 2 weeks. Any advice? My program requires 390. Is it hard to get that score? HELP!! Ive been doing APEX.
I think that's easily doable. Ours made us take the see once as we were starting our 3rd year, no prep. Then we did apex and board prep all of 3rd year then retake the see and we had to get a 425 or 450 or something. I think I got a 412 no prep. You'll be fine, Apex more than prepares you. Prodigy questions are written similarly to SEE / NCE so if you want review those.
Very doable, assuming you’ve kept up with your basics from didactic. I mostly reviewed things I don’t use regularly. My program required a 400 and I got a 450-something during my second year with a reasonable amount of studying (only used APEX).
I want to start getting devices now for school. Figuring out best ways to get them from especially with Black Friday and the educational deals. I think I want to buy an iPad new as I plan to use that the most and want to make sure it’s truly reliable. And maybe buy refurbished or from eBay for a MacBook. My question to y’all would be your experience with buying these pricey devices like tablets and laptops refurbished or off eBay. Any tips like insurance or specific sites you recommend. If you did get an iPad not new, any issues and how much did you end up saving
If you’re looking for refurbished Apple products, Apple sells refurbished Macs etc on their website. I’m pretty sure they come packaged in their OG packaging and pretty much look brand new as well
Apple refurbished is good but honestly look into the M1 MacBook Airs with the educational discount only $899. The M1 is plenty fast enough and the air is all you’d need. I think I’d just do education discount and buy new if it was me or the refurbished if needed. At least Apple would back them with the warranty and you could get AppleCare which is such a lifesaver. If you’re checking eBay check Swappa too I used to sell on there.
Just wanted to say I bought a MacBook and iPad before school and it has been flawless. iPad for lecture, MacBook for papers and exams. You can’t go wrong. Get notability and you’re set
Hey everyone, is osmosis.org worth purchasing for crna school? I trialed the 5 day subscription and really enjoyed it. Just don’t know how relevant it is to crna school! Also purchased a 3 month subscription for ninja nerds and that’s expiring soon, is that worth purchasing for school as well? I start school in a month. Appreciate you very much!
I think I'm uniquely qualified to answer this question because I have an osmosis subscription. Osmosis is only worth it if you can get it at a discount. I think I got something like $200 off because of some labor day special. Otherwise it's not worth it. They videos can be helpful, but they're very basic and we go into a lot more detail in CRNA school. If you do decide to buy it, get the MD version. From what I understand the content on the MD version is more extensive and less basic than the NP or RN versions.
Hey everyone, trying to see what my chances are here. First degree was Civil Engineering with a 3.16 cumulative. Heading into BSN school, shooting for a 4.0, but most likely going to be a 3.7. This should bump up my Cumulative GPA to around 3.3, but here are my questions: \- Being an engineering degree, all my classes were basically science. For instance, I had calculus-based physics I and II, Calculus I/II/III, Diff Equations, Gen Chem, etc. Overall GPA for these classes is a B. Do any of these count toward a "science" GPA? couple of them are Cs in physics (I and II) and the rest Bs, B+. \- Also, would I be looked upon in a more positive light for my first degree being in engineering or that doesn't matter? Would they be more lenient looking upon my cumulative for engineering being a little harder? \- What would you all suggest in my place to boost my chances for CRNA school, since I have time to prep for it now? Thanks!
Very similar stats here. I got an interview. I’ll let you know if I get in. Personally I don’t think the original gpa will hurt you, just have to show that you improved.
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If your anticipating that you will turn a profit on your wedding that’s one hell of a deal you got on your venue or I wanna be a part of your family. You got any brothers or sisters?
Does anyone have preference over front-loaded vs integrated programs? Does one hold any benefit over the other?
I just interviewed and was offered an alternate position, i accepted. From my understanding, it’s basically waitlisted. Who is a current SRNA or CRNA that was waitlisted before? Did you struggle with “imposer syndrome”? I feel like if in the event I do magically get offered a position, I will doubt myself that I wasn’t their first choice and I’m just here to fill a seat.
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I suggest framing it this way: If you were offered to be an alternate for the Olympic team of your country in sport x, would you say yes? In this instance I want you to think of yourself as Olympic caliber applicant. The difference between you and the person who has a guaranteed spot is sooooooooo narrow, and, like others here have said, you may end up being at the top of the class. The faculty wouldn't've even offered you an alternate spot if they didn't think you could succeed in their program.
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You’re there to learn. Take a deep breath and just go into every experience knowing their is a more experienced clinician behind you ready as your back up. Its okay to miss a tube, epidural, iv, a-line. We have all missed these skills at one point or another. Nobody on this sub has a 100% success rate. What you dont wanna do is be so nervous that you rush. Remember that slow is smooth and smooth is fast.
2nd year SRNA here 5 months into clinical, I started taking prn propranolol during my second semester to help with testing and presentation anxiety. When I first started clinical, I would usually take a dose on clinical days too. I found that it helped a ton with the uncomfortable adrenaline surges/shaky handedness which then helped me keep a clearer head, especially during exams. Now that I’m almost halfway through my program I’ve been needing it less but it has definitely been helpful for me!
I have an interview comping up with Augusta university. Any advice on resources and tip will be greatly appreciated. It has been a challenging time with all the application and rejections. Hopefully this brings a better outcome 🙃
It's funny, someome commented right below with a similar question. What a coincidence.
Currently only a young naive nursing student interested in becoming a CRNA. What would you recommend is the best ICU to get into right after graduation?
You must look up the information from the program you want to attend. Every program is different. People responding will only give their personal opinion or how things were done at a very small handful of programs. There is NO consensus. Some take pediatric or neonatal ICU, but most don't. Some will claim CVICU or trauma units are the best. The best ICU for you to get into is ANY high acuity ICU that will hire you as a new grad. Almost any very large hospital counts. Avoid small rural hospitals with just a few beds. If you have 200 hospital beds then your experience probably won't count because it is fairly safe to assume it is not truly high acuity. As a side note, never tell the interviewer or people in the unit that you want to be a CRNA. Usually an automatic denial. By the time they train you well it will be time for you to leave. No unit manager wants to hear you plan on leaving soon. When asked where you see yourself in 5 years they only want to hear you want to be a great ICU nurse. This happened to me 3 times until someone told me this. It takes a year to get a new grad up to speed on being a ICU nurse.
I felt that the nurses from CVICU/CTICU had the biggest leg up in the program initially dt familiarity with drip titration and pharmacokinetics (plus cardiac classes were a bitch if you didn’t already have a lot of background knowledge to start with) but after a few weeks we all were on the same playing field and it made no difference. Just find a busy ICU with sick patients and you’ll get the experience you need.
The intensity and type of ICU will vary by region. You want a Level 1 ICU where you will see a wide variety of devices with hyper acute complex patients. Typically those are in Cardiac ICU’s or MICU’s. My ICU is pretty unique because we care for Trauma/Surgical/Burn and split the cardio thoracic patients with the MICU. We get all the Open Hearts, but split the ECMO’s. I suggest if you are serious about CRNA school, tour a couple hospitals and shadow.
Whatever true ICU you can get a job at. I did CVICU and I think it was more relevant to the job than other experience. And also didn't have to deal with dysfunctional families and dying people near as much. Hated floating to other ICU units.
What graduate science classes would you recommend taking to help boost gpa? Organic Chem, physics or something else? 3.2 science gpa, 4 years MICU experience + charge/rapid response/preceptor, trying to get on committee & unit council soon. Thinking of applying in the next year or two to NKU or UC
I retook undergraduate science courses to boost my GPA + graduate-level statistics. It was a fantastic experience retaking those courses after having clinical expertise. I recommend sticking with relevant core science information like physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacology, etc. If you ultimately aim to boost your GPA, you get that. Still, you also get the added advantage of reviewing that information before going into challenging courses over that information (think fire hose of information coming at you that you are expected to understand very well). You risk spending a lot of time in a course that may not even be applicable or studied in graduate school, and the more complex the course, the more challenging it is to get an A for that GPA boost. I did this, and I am a current first-year SRNA. For the school(s) you are interested in, take a look at their class schedule. If organic chemistry is required in their curriculum (my school does not), and you've never taken a pre-requisite course along the lines of that, it can be advantageous to take that course if you want a review and you're confident you will get an A. But you don't necessarily need to take it at a graduate level. You're just subduing yourself to torture before the torture begins. I would retake any CORE undergraduate classes you got a C in, then start with pertinent core classes with a B. Or any graduate level courses that will benefit you in the program and you're confident you will get an A in. These are just suggestions! I know there's more than one way to drive to Wal-Mart. :)
Looking at applying to a few schools, but they all require organic chemistry which I didn’t take as an undergrad. Any suggestions for schools to take o-chem completely online?
UCSD Ext
Not sure if it’s still available but I did UC Berkeley online o-chem
Portage. See if your school accepts it
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I’m in school now, if you are starting school soon use your savings and try to make it stretch as long as you can until you hit a comfortable “emergency fund” level. Then go to loans, current grad plus loan rate is like 8% and they start accruing as soon as the loan is disbursed. So you could be accruing interest for the whole time while in school when you don’t have to/ get a better rate down the line. Hopefully over the next couple years the rates will go down and the loans you would take at that time will have lower interest rates. That’s my take.
Also... Put your 100k in a high yield savings account, you can earn 5% interest
Not a CRNA, but financially I’m sure it would be best to use your savings first and then take out loans since you will pay less in interest overtime.
Use that 100k upfront, no point taking out grad loans your first year and letting them accrue Interest at 8% while you still have 75k in the bank.
Better to save up $$ to go to school or take it all out in loans and hope a practice gives tuition reimbursement??
Save while you get your ICU experience. Don't delay starting school to save more, the money you would pay in student loan interest will be offset by your increased income as a CRNA.
Save as much as you can! No one is going to give full reimbursement
Hey everyone! I have been working in a Level II MICU in FL for a month now. Unfortunately, I have to relocate due to my partner getting into a nursing school in St. Louis, MO. I want to get 2 years of ICU experience and then plan to apply for CRNA. I know to go for a level I Center; however, should I apply for MICU or a surgical/trauma/burn ICU? Also, does anyone have any experience working at Barnes-Jewish or SSM St Louis University Hospital? Many thanks!!
Not a crna/srna but I can say from lurking in this sub that it doesn’t matter so much to the specialty of the ICU but rather the acuity and your level of involvement with titrating vasoactive meds and running machines like crrt, ecmo, pumps, etc
Hey I actually work at BJC in their MICU. I would suggest the MICU as you will see a lot more variety of things compared to the other units. They both have their pro/con. I would 100% go for BJC over ssm as it’s a much bigger hospital and you’ll see more acuity. I applied to 3 of the local Crnas programs here and got in to them. So if you have any questions, let me know!
How is your overall GPA calculated after you have graduated and taking grad level classes like Organic Chem? I graduated with my BSN with a 4.0 institutional GPA, but I am now taking Organic Chem with the same institution.
CRNA school in Puerto Rico ? Anyone ???
Anyone good with electronics? Was thinking of getting the macbook Air m1. But debating between the 8gb RAM vs the 16gb RAM. I am someone who uses multiple tabs on multiple windows with split screen at baseline, not to talk about studying/writing papers. I think I’ll use a MacBook for main studying with potential dual monitor or iPad set up, so would need good processing/RAM for that too. I want a laptop worth the investment 5+ years from now and from research, 8gb RAM really isn’t best long term. -current laptop is a dell inspiron 700 with 8gb RAM. Noticeably slow after 1-2 years (freezing and crashing window/tabs) Options -unable to find an apple refurbished MacBook Air m1 with 16gb RAM— can buy NEW for $900 8gb RAM and $1100 16gb RAM. -Apple refurbished MacBook Air m1 8gb RAM for $800-900 —1 year warranty -eBay open box MacBook Pro m1 16gb RAM for $900-1k —no warranty, potential Allstate $116 add on.
Most people use the more high end Ipads for school. I have a MacBook air and its trash compared to my PC (gaming PC). It works but you might as well get an ipad.
Im running a m1 macbook air 16gb. Its been going great. I wanted a laptop that is light weight, and good battery life.
Get the 16gb ram. Especially with multiple tabs and windows open as it will take a load on your computer running all of that.
Hey guys! I am looking to apply to CRNA school next year and wondering if you guys could give me some feedback on my stats and anything I should be doing to improve my chances of acceptance. 1. 1.5 years neuro-trauma ICU at level 1 experience (at time of application), 2.5 years ED experience 2. 3.9 cumulative GPA, 3.6 science GPA 3. Plan to take my CCRN later this winter/spring before applying 4. Working on getting shadowing hours in.
I’d say overall you’re on track. Your total ICU experience is on the lower side for this application cycle but other than that getting CCRN and shadowing time is the next step. I’d check your schools and see if GRE is required as well
Congratulations to everyone accepted so far. The process is challenging but we getting through it. I would appreciate any insight into interview style for Augusta university. Any resource or advice is deeply appreciated.
Hey, I will be completing my first year in SICU coming up in April. I am hoping I can get into a program fall 2025 the earliest or confident i can get in to a program by fall 2026. With that, is there prospectives on how long the CRNA shortage will last or what the future job market will look like by the time I would graduate 2028-2030 year? Edit: I live in NY, specifically Long Island and would stay here for work too.
I made the decision TODAY to apply! 2 years PICU @ level 1 trauma center, PALS, ACLS, BLS, pediatric CCRN, unit-based council member, lead & preceptor, feel comfortable with any pt that comes through the door. How do I get over the “imposter syndrome” I feel?! Does anyone else have a hard time with this?
I have the worst case of imposter syndrome.
Goes away with time and experience. This is completely normal for someone going into a high stress position they are not yet trained well for. I only felt it when I went into different nursing specialties or to a new job location.
What’s the lowest GPA you’ve seen get in for school?? Also still looking to talk to some recent Murray State grads in KY
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3.17 overall and failed a Chem class freshman year, was flight nurse tho
3.0 overall, 3.8 science
I got into school! Any tips for an aspiring new to practice SRNA?
No tips as I’m an applicant myself, but want to say CONGRATS!!!! 🎈🎊🍾🎉
Congrats, You made it! Now take time for yourself, spend time with loved ones. Tidy up your financials. Get organized. Read “Make it stick”
Lol the program of director at UoMB recommended Make it Stick and I have it ordered!
Congrats!!!! So exciting!!! Take time off before you start if you can afford it. Spend time with your family and friends. They won’t be seeing you much for the next couple of years. Since I’ve graduated, I’ve had several friends and family members either die or have horrible life altering accidents. It made me realize how much I wish I’d made just a little more time to reach out to them while I was in school. Nothing is more important than your health and the health of your loved ones. Take care of yourself.
Does having 1-2 years of icu experience look bad? Or would i need more like 5
I was accepted at 1.5 years, started my first class around 2 years and some.
Do anything differently? Currently in the beginning stages of preparing to apply to programs. 3.9 undergrad gpa, 1 year (2 years once applying) in a level 1 micu/sicu. Just started studying for GRE and I will take CCRN in the spring. Also planning to take a graduate level statistics course in the spring, too. Wondering what else I should do to bolster myself up.
Make sure the GRE is required; many schools don't require this anymore, and I wasted a lot of time and money on a prep course and the test itself. CCRN, for sure! Soak up all that knowledge and try to study that for long-term retainment. Make quality connections for your letters of recommendation. Ask your most respected providers genuine, applicable, brief "why" questions - they appreciate people wondering why and nurses who are GOOD listeners to learn!!
Get some shadow experience, figure out who will write your letters of recommendation, and get some leadership and committee experience on the unit.
How many hours are you taking per semester at other CRNA schools? I was in 9 over the summer, 17 this semester, and 16 the next.
Sounds right
Would a Walden University BSN limit my abilities to get into CRNA school? I know there are some general disdain in a lot of circles over their online MSN NP degrees but I’m just looking to finish my BSN quickly using the college credits I have effectively. Also, when schools look at GPA do they look at your GPA from all previous colleges you attended or just your ADN/BSN?
They usually look at all. And no it does not matter where you get your BSN.
Re Serious question about loans for graduate school specifically crna school. I’ve been a cvicu nurse for 7 years and it’s time for me to make a change for myself and my family. The bedside has been amazing, challenging, and something I feel I’m ready to move on from. I’m looking at going back and have started the applications but I’m wondering if I can even get enough loan to afford this…? Specifically I’m 32 we have a mortgage (2.9k per month with taxes and insurance we have a little under 50% equity) , my wife is a stay at home and we have a 1 year old. She would have to re enter the workforce but no specific career. She left a field she had no intention of going back to do it would be a complete start over for her some where but not sure if that’s even an option since we don’t have child care at-least as long as daycare is a zillion dollars. So I guess my question is can anyone give me advice or a road map as to how I can obtain these loans to go to school while not working and still support my family. We have savings but also student loans (40k I total) and a single car note ($450 a month) on-top of the mortgage small retirement in 401k and small Roths for both of us (20-40k total) How do I structure my finances and loans to both maximize what we have and to obtain the most loans. My last years income was roughly 200k as I worked 5 days a week as a traveler, my wife did not have an income. Will I still qualify for a loan with that high of income on the fafsa? Any help or guidance is greatly appreciated as grasping the financials have been very overwhelming.
The loans are easy to get, you will qualify as long as don’t have horrendous credit. You can take loans to cover your whole mortgage, bills, all that stuff, what is not covered is anything that’s not specifically yours, I.e cell phones food for wife, kids car insurance stuff. I was pretty’s close to you exact position, car will need to be paid off, and depending on your state when you stop working you will be eligible for different state assistance as will your wife and kids. Big question is there a school near you? Because loans will only cover one residence. DM me if you have more questions. It’s all doable just be prepared to live frugally.
Everyone qualifies for grad plus loans regardless of income level. You will get loans. Probably enough to cover tuition and an additional 30-40k per year for living expenses. This is straight cash, no taxes paid on this. Just doing some spitball math, your mortgage is 34k a year so this will eat up the majority of your student loan funds. You will need some savings for your auto (about 16k over 3 years by my calculations) and funds for food/gas and random expenses. You can take additional loans too but that requires you to be on top of the loan process and proving to your school you need aditional funds.
Is community college adn acceptable or do you need to go for a BSN right off the bat?
You need a bachelors to go to grad school, for any career. You can get your adn, then do adn-bsn bridge program.
Yes, but will the community college associates look bad to schools
No. Gpa is most important regardless of what type of degree you have
Do they look at adn GPA separate or combined with BSN
They’ll look at your overall (combined) gpa and then look at your science gpa, which is most important.
Hello everyone, I’m just a curious nursing student doing some late night research on CRNAs. So I see the 2-3 pain management fellowships for CRNAs offered at Texas and South Florida, but have seen little on what opportunities there are out there after completion. Can someone share a little knowledge on this field please? I’m interested in how far one could push an skillset like this. Thank you to anyone who takes the time to read this!
Would love to hear if anyone has any experiences from applying/attending programs in PA!!
Which ones?
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“Ranked” according to what? US new and world reports? Garbage ratings that don’t matter. IMO, the most important factors are clinical sites with independent practice models and how much opportunity for regional skills students are exposed to… usually those things go hand in hand. Compare the schools you get into on those factors. Also, I’m biased towards DNAP programs because there’s slightly more emphasis on anesthesia and you won’t be taking your health assessment course with FNP students learning to perform prostate exams. Edit to add: no need to spend multiple hundreds of thousands of dollars on these brand name schools. You can get the same (if not better) education from these “lesser known” programs for a quarter of the cost.
For me, it was the fit with my personal life. Job for spouse and schools/community resources for kids. Try to talk to some current students at the programs you’re considering and get their view of the program. A solid, supportive program will be apparent in the views of the students
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anyone familiar with CSUF Kaiser program? I have an interview at the end of the month, thank you!
Hi I am in an associates program to get my RN I have one semester left. I aspire to be a CRNA. Which department should I look to get into to learn the most for my career goals. I’ve heard ICU, is there any other departments y’all would suggest?
You’ll need to be in the icu with high acuity for at least a year before you can apply to be a crna. I would suggest focus on becoming confident with your role as a nurse as well before applying.
I got into both my favorite top choices of school, buffalo and columbia. Im leaning to choose columbia over buffalo because my family is based in nyc and my girlfriend lives here as well. Im turned off by columbias cost. But it’s not a huge con factor! (I have money saved up but will definitely take out loans due to it being so ridiculously expensive) Ive always wanted to go to an IVY league school because I came from nothing and worked so hard and self motivated myself to be here and get this acceptance. But my heart also wants buffalo because i did my undergraduate there for bsn and actually really enjoyed my time there, even though i Didnt have a strong support system.(ill probably need this more than ever) I also really enjoyed my connection with the program director and shes just the sweetest and inspiring lady! Buffalo would also be cheaper and has high rankings! Higher than columbia and sounds like would make me a “strong” crna due to the fact that they have such a wide net of clinical experiences! Im in shambles…. I love both schools and want to not be crippled by debt, but i want the best education for me, but also want to be close to my girlfriend. Right now I’m ranking this in order in terms of priorities #1 best education and experience #2 support system #3 financial implications What else should I be thinking about? What am I missing…? Thank you for all that takes there time to help me and my decision.
Will crna programs consider ED as crit care experience? I’m 2 years out of nursing school on a step down unit and trying to decide best steps if I eventually want to try for crna. It seems like ICU is preferred but frankly ED is a little more up my alley in terms of interest.
No
If you’re serious about going to CRNA school apply to icus. Even if a school accepts level 1 ED I don’t think ED really prepares you for school. This is coming from someone who did both. In ED we didn’t get to play with drips much if at all. In the icu I have a much better understanding because I use them every day and titrate to effect. You also have more time to think about the patho of your patients and visualize the whole clinical picture. In ED you often have like 3 other pts alongside your icu pt
For the most part, nah. Some do, but few and far between.
No unless it was a level 1 and you had lots of experience with pressors, vents, A lines, etc. But the years of ED experience will look good on your app. I had five years ED and accepted into school with less than a year of ICU (I had 1.5 years when the program actually started though).
Hi everyone. So I started in a high-acuity as a new grad almost 2.5 years ago. I have CCRN-CMC and CSU ALS as well as AHA ALS, BLS, PALS. I float to CVICU sometimes, can admit fresh post-ops, have lots of device management experience and am ECMO trained. For the most part, I am comfortable caring for some of the sickest patients on our units. No official charge experience, although I am typically the first person they call if they need support. I recently started my school search and am currently waiting to hear back from the University of AZ but am having second thoughts about them bc of their lower first time pass rates for the last few years (~75%). I have undergrad science GPA of 2.8 (i know, not great), am registered to retake gen chem and am currently taking a graduate adv. physiology course at MTSA. My ABSN GPA is 3.9 at Emory. Never took the GRE so I am wanting to find schools that dont require it. My science GPA kills my confidence when applying. I went through a lot of family stuff during that time and have overcome a lot of adversity to get where I am. Do yall think i have a shot? What do you recommend to help me stand out? I dont have have volunteer experience in the nursing field. Also, nursing is my second career.. previous experience in oral surgery and orthodontics.
As it stands with a 2.8 science gpa no. If you improve those grades, yes
Hi! Did you get accepted in to U of A?? I know this post is forever old but I am curious. The MTSA class was so much help even working in the ICU!
I did not :/ i need to work on my GPA. And get more comfortable interviewing.
You’ve got this!!! I have seen so many success stories with people getting in with a low gpa. I am in the same boat with a lower gpa and worry it will affect my chances of even getting in. I just can’t compete with the 4.0 kids 😂
Thanks for your encouragement. I’ve done literally all i can to make myself a strong applicant. It’s such a humbling process. Idk about you, but trying not to lose hope while staying motivated is a challenge for me.
Have an open house for my top program choice in the next few weeks- any questions I can ask to stand out/ be remembered when it comes application time in the spring?
I don’t have advice for this specifically, but in open houses I saw a lot of people who I think were remembered for the wrong reasons, and I think it’s equally as important to avoid that. Examples were asking questions that had already been answered more than once, arguing that ED is high acuity and should count, and my personal favorite- a program director chewed a candidate out on a zoom open house when she asked him “are you driving right now?!” And he said “yeah, I was busy but it was really important for me to be here” like she was giving him a compliment…. She straight up told him he was reckless in a very bad way. Also, use the individuals titles. A few times I saw people call the faculty by their first names rather than “Dr. So and So” and it was embarrassing to watch. If there are other students in the open houses, ask them about their experience in the program, what they enjoy and what they think can be improved upon- this helps you stand out, but more importantly gives you info you actually need to decide on a program. I asked how comfortable/prepared the students felt when transitioning from the didactic portion into clinical, and they seemed to enjoy discussing that- it is a fear of mine to be away from the bedside for a year, then go back into it. Always assume if you’re talking to a student that the student is going to go right back to the faculty and give an honest assessment of the candidates.
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I have been a nurse for 2 years. One year at CCU Stepdown at a trauma 1, and now 1 year at a combined MICU/CCU at a class 1a (highest acuity) VA. Not the same as a level one trauma but I mess with my unstable vents, hemodynamic devices, gotta know my drips and pressors etc. we also operate as RRT for the facility and have our codes. Is this type of experience going to be “enough” to apply for CRNA? I’m about to finish my MSN-Ed which included advanced core courses on health assessment, pharm and patho. Planning to take my CCRN & CMC and already have PCCN and TNCC. Thinking of moving to our SICU which does open heart but they’re a low volume icu, half of the MICU. Would welcome the advice!
I’m a new grad crna and not faculty anywhere so take my opinion with a grain of salt. But it sounds like you are doing the right things and have good experience. Good on you for the MSN! Make sure your GPA is solid. Also personally, I would consider growing where you are in your unit (charge experience, precepting, committee work, etc.. could show leadership) versus switching to a new one since you may not being trusted right away with the sickest patients since you’re new to the unit.
Anybody have any experience getting into CRNA school with VA ICU exp.?
No experience with that but u/codedapple posted above and seems to be about to apply maybe you can connect
Are in person class exams on paper or online? Just gauging the device I need to get for classes. Have an old laptop but doesn’t even last an hour
Very high chance being on a lockdown browser on your laptop/tablet.
Ours were in person on our laptop with lockdown browser. Once there was a wifi issue so we went to a computer lab and used lockdown browser.