From LPN to RN?

Hey nurse friends! Did you know I started my nursing career as an LVN (LPN) ? So, why did I start as an LVN you ask? First, I was unsure if nursing was for me. I had always dreamed of working with children when I was younger, but I was unclear in what way. My mother, who works in mental health, suggested I give it a try. So I did! And listed below are some of the advantages.

1. Going to LVN school is a shorter commitment, and does not require as many prerequisites as RN school. This is perfect for someone who cannot afford to dive head first into RN school, or is unsure if nursing is for them at all.

2. As an LVN you gain useful experience in various areas of healthcare. Should you decide to complete your RN education, you have already developed foundational skills and have some idea of what area of expertise is for you.

3. LVN- RN bridge programs are available. LVN coursework is considered completion of your first year of RN coursework. Therefore, there's no time wasted.If you want to go to RN school after completing LVN school, you're already half way there.

4. You become apart of the nursing community faster. Once becoming apart of the nursing community, you start to learn about different opportunities that are available to you to help you advance your career.

5. Lastly, We all know how competitive getting into an RN program is. By becoming an LVN first, you may have an easier time getting accepted into an LVN- RN bridge program than a regular RN program.

However, this post is not meant to discourage those who would like to go straight to RN school. Do it! You got this! This is for those who feel stuck, as if there is no way they can get into and get through RN school. Some of us just take different pathways on the road to becoming an RN. This is your confirmation that you can and you

will!