The process for getting into Dream School was pretty average. I had to submit previous transcripts and an application (and $50 application fee) which included three letters of recommendation and four small essays. If I was deemed fit by the school after they reviewed these things, then I was contacted for an interview. The interview was set for a Saturday morning or afternoon and included three individual interviews with members of the admissions committee (composed of professors, admission staff, and even the Dean of Students!), a discussion with the Admissions Director, and finally had to write yet another essay. It seemed very lengthy! There were two other applicants in my interview group and we rotated between the three members of the admissions committee. There were about 10 other groups (so 30 applicants total), but 3 different time slots - so 90 applicants! Then out of the 90, about 40 to 50 were accepted.
Nobody in my family has ever applied to nursing school (let alone to any college!) so I relied on asking friends, coworkers, and other students I knew were in my program for some help. I eventually also resorted to the internet. While cleaning out my bookmarks tab, I came across a lot of stuff that I had saved regarding the application process, interviewing, and essay writing. Here are a few of the resources I gathered :)
Link #1 - This is from the University of Arizona (NOT my dream school, but a reputable program). Breaks down the three steps of the interview process: before, during, and after. Also gives tons of examples of interview questions!
Link #2 - One of the questions to my entrance essay was "What characteristics will make you a good nurse?" I knew that saying I'm a hard worker (true), energetic (true), and caring (definitely true) were all good examples, but EVERYONE and their moms use generic characteristics like that! This website gives the Top 10 qualities of good nurses and none of them are your run-of-the-mill traits. It helps to see what terms employers are looking for as opposed to what YOU think you are. However, I do not encourage lying on these essays! :)
Link #3 - Another site focusing on the interview.
Some tips I have for this process is to get some dang experience! This can include working in a hospital as a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant), Patient Transporter, or Unit Secretary; volunteering in hospitals; attending seminars; or even volunteering in the community. These experiences set you apart from other applicants.
I was not a CNA prior to applying to nursing school but several others were. I am, however, a Certified Phlebotomist, which nobody else was. In my interview I brought this job up quite a bit by explaining that it helps me interact with patients and their doctors professionally, teaches me a more technical side of patient care, and helps me learn the ins and outs of the hospital. I even explained a situation with a nurse where I taught her a couple of tricks when it comes to drawing blood. My interviewer was very impressed! :) And news flash - education is a huge part of being a nurse, so if I can teach a professional something, I surely can teach a patient something!!
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