Student Nurses Association

How much does nursing school cost?

     The Nursing and Allied Health page on the Hartnell website has a document with estimated costs of the nursing program. Including prerequisites, the estimated cost is $6,160.40. This document has more information in detail: https://www.hartnell.edu/sites/default/files/u297/cost_sheets_adn_2016.pdf

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Can I work while in nursing school?

     If you are a student who needs to work to support yourself while in school, you are not alone! There are many students who work while in nursing school, but it does come at a cost. The nursing faculty recommend working less than 20 hours per week while in the nursing program, but some students work more than this. It is possible to be successful in nursing school while working, but it will require excellent time management skills, efficient studying, a flexible work schedule, and lots of determination. The first semester of nursing school is by far the most difficult, so it is highly recommended to work less during this semester. If you are not able to reduce the amount of hours you work, you may need to save money in advance so you can afford to work less hours during nursing school. 

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What if I have kids?

     You may be surprised by how many nursing student are parents! Having a family certainly adds extra responsibilities to nursing school, but with good organization, planning, and time management, you can still find enough time to devote to your studies. A key resource for a parent in nursing school is having a reliable support system. Whether you have a spouse, partner, or are a single parent, you want to arrange for dependable people to be available to support you and your family during your nursing journey. Trustworthy babysitters are crucial, and you will want a backup for your backup. There are many unexpected situations that occur during nursing school, so you will need someone available to call when you need a ride for your kids, last minute babysitter, etc. Being in nursing school will greatly affect your family, so you want to make sure that they are up for the challenge and understand the changes ahead. Your nursing class will become an additional support system for you, so be sure to make friends and be willing to help others when they need it. 

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What are the hours like?

     The class schedule for nursing school will change every semester. The first semester is the busiest schedule with 13 units. Every other semester is 10.5 units. Generally, Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, you will have classes in the morning until mid-afternoon. Tuesdays and Wednesdays you will have clinical at the hospital, although first semester you have the option for clinical on the weekends. Most semesters, clinical is around 6:30 am -- 12:30 pm, but some semesters have an afternoon/evening option. This will vary based on the semester and instructor availability. 

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Do I have to have straight A's?

     You do not need to have straight A's to get into nursing school, but the higher your GPA, the better. The minimum overall core science GPA must be at least 2.5, and all prerequisites must be at least a "C". Nursing school is very competitive, and while GPA is an important factor, it is not the only consideration. The college also looks at your application essay, if you are the first member of your family to attend college, your financial situation, and other information. Specific questions about application requirements can be directed to LaVerne Cook at 831-755-6820 or lcook@hartnell.edu. This link has more details regarding application requirements:

 http://www.hartnell.edu/sites/default/files/u297/f14_rn_info._sheet.pdf 

 

Do I need healthcare experience? 

     Healthcare experience is definitely not a requirement, but it is helpful if you have the opportunity. Even if you are able to volunteer at a hospital for a time, it can give you some valuable experience and will look good on scholarship applications and resumes. Most classes are a mix of students with previous CNA or LVN experience and those with no healthcare experience at all. Students with no experience may have more of a learning curve in the beginning, but it doesn't significantly affect performance overall. 

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What is it like to be in nursing school?

     Nursing school will change your life. It is not something you should jump into without considering the costs and expectations. You will be spending much less time with your friends and family, weekends and evenings will be spent studying and doing homework, you will have less personal time, less time to work, and additional costs for school. However, it is an amazing experience where you will meet fabulous instructors, memorable patients, and make lifelong friendships. Timing is important when deciding to apply for nursing school. You need to be able to dedicate a majority of your time to classes, studying, and being in the hospital. If you have extensive family responsibilities or if you cannot afford to work part-time, you might want to consider waiting to apply to the program. Set yourself up for success by considering the many factors necessary to excel in nursing school and decide if it is right for you. The Hartnell Mentorship Program is a great resource for pre-nursing and current nursing students and can help answer any other questions you may have.

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