Need some encouragement

**Kellili** · 08-04-2010, 09:11 PM

I'm getting really stressed out trying to figure out how on earth I will be able to pay for nursing school. It is a year away, provided I get accepted. (community college, so no crazy tuition). I have a Bachelors degree already so that means I can't get Pell grants or state funding. Nice huh? I work full time right now m-f and nursing school will be at the same time, so when I get in I'll have to quit my job.

I don't mind student loans, since I don't have any from before but I am worried about paying the mortgage, bills ect and finding DAYCARE! Right now I take him to work with me. Can't do that at school! I can get a part time job, and will, but will that be enough? I can't imagine school, work, toddler, housework, homework, studying, clinicals and being a wife all at the same time!

I am projecting (yes I have my budget done weekly through next August...I'm a nerd) to have my next 2 credit cards paid off by then, but we will still be short monthly w/o me working. *baring any complications of course. Budget that far in advance is like Jello I say...firm but fluid...

This is something I really really want to do, and DO NOT want to put off for a later date. I'm just STRESSING

today. Thanks for letting me vent! On a side note, my anatomy and physiology 1 class will be over next week! Yay~....then on to micro...

**Libby** · 08-04-2010, 09:13 PM

No advice for you but support.

Others have done it - so can you. Stay positive.

**Momto5RN** · 08-04-2010, 10:00 PM

hugs going out to you !
does the school you plan to go to have any suggestions - if your income goes down when you are in schol you may qualify for something you arent aware of .

**mndtrp** · 08-04-2010, 10:03 PM

I would definitely talk to the school. They may have advice for someone in your position, as I'm sure you aren't the first.

**nursemombren** · 08-04-2010, 10:43 PM

My daughter starts nursing school on the 24Th. Look up scolarships. She received a 1000 dollar one. Check with school & on line. Tylenol sometimes give one .Some hospital's help if you agree to work for them a few years. Good luck. nursemombren

**frugalwarrior2** · 08-04-2010, 10:54 PM

Some community colleges have day care. Can you defer the loans until grraduation. Try and think I can do this because it is only for XXX amt. of time. DH may have to step up to help at home,after all he will share in the benefits later w/ increased income,right?

**MaryCarney** · 08-05-2010, 08:08 AM

I would start piling up the cash AND looking for childcare RIGHT NOW! When I was in my RN program (back in the day) I was able to work full-time and go to school full-time - and we had two foster kids and I was pregnant the last year. Granted, I did absolutely NOTHING fun or relaxing, but I made it.
Oh, make friends with a current student who you can buy used books from as well. College texts are expensive, but nursing texts are ridiculous!!!

**Kellili** · 08-05-2010, 08:53 AM

Thanks guys. Mary, there is a daycare at a private school across the street from my subdivision. I have checked it out and they are good, I think $130 a week. My plan is to put him there, it will be a very convenient location for sure. I will do my best to pile up cash! That's my plan, but even figuring up what I will have saved, we will still be short monthly
I have decided on this route...what do you think: After the first semester of NS, you can challenge the CNA test. When I get my CNA license I can work at a hospital evenings/nights/weekends/whenever and not only make some money, but also:
1. GAIN EXPERIENCE
2. Work my tail off and get noticed
3. establish connections in the hospital
4. get my foot in the door for an RN position upon graduation

I think this is THE BEST idea I've had in awhile.

I'm still worried about the money, because I honestly have no idea how we will make it. But I'll just keep plugging along and it will all work out in the end. I'm going to take some books I have to sell at McKays (used bookstore) this weekend. Even a little cash will get me started!

Thanks for the encouragement guys, I was having a "toddler hasn't let me sleep at all in 2 days and I have a test to take" BAD day yesterday. I'm feeling much more optimistic now. Frugal Village rocks!