Nursing School Admission in California can be a LONG wait…
Some nursing schools in California have waitlists that sit at four-and-a-half years. The scarcity of nursing program seats comes as California faces a dire nursing shortage. A 2022 study from UCSF estimated the state would fall short by almost 19,000 full-time nurses by the end of the year, with the shortage continuing until 2029.
Thinking back on my journey to nursing school, I realize how important it was to go above and beyond in my preparation to apply and get accepted right after completing my prerequisites without having to wait 3-4 years or reapply again and again.
Here’s what I did to get accepted right after completing my prerequisites in California:
🇺🇸 Academic Excellence: Achieving A's and B's in all my prerequisite courses was crucial. It required dedication and consistent effort, but it paid off.
🇺🇸Gaining Experience: I worked as a caregiver for about a year to gain healthcare experience. This hands-on exposure not only strengthened my application but also gave me valuable insights into patient care.
🇺🇸 Leadership and Initiative: Noticing the lack of a pre-nursing association at my community college, I took the initiative to start one. This experience taught me leadership skills and provided a platform for networking and peer support.
🇺🇸TEAS Preparation: I scored fairly well on the TEAS, which is an important part of the application process. Consistent study and practice helped me achieve a competitive score.
Advice for Aspiring Nurses:
🇺🇸Research Programs: Do thorough research on the programs you want to apply to. Understand their requirements and try to meet most, if not all, of the supplemental criteria.
🇺🇸Maximize Your Efforts: Give your best in every aspect of your application. Your hard work and dedication will shine through.
🇺🇸Trust the Process: Once you’ve done your best, trust the process and leave the rest to the admissions committee.
To all aspiring nurses, remember that determination, hard work, and initiative can take you a long way. Your journey to nursing school is a stepping stone to a fulfilling and impactful career. 🌟💉👩⚕️👨⚕️
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