UVA School of Nursing Q&A STUDENT Blog :]

Spring time at UVA!

2011-04-26T18:00:00.003-04:00

Hello all!

Sorry about the absence on the blog. Sometimes it seems that between clinicals, nursing exams, and practicing for our head-to-toe final assessment there is little time to spare! But do not worry, it's all manageable if you sleep, eat well, and take care of each other.

While nurses don't live in dorms together you can be assured you will see your class plenty! As the Spring weather has hit, walk by either of the nursing school buildings and you will certainly see a bunch of nurses outside chatting in the grass together. While we are all beginning to think about exams, a few last projects are due including our clinical group presentation where we present two of our patients to the class and explain how what we've learned in the classroom connects to our hospital experiences!

Finally, the 2nd year nursing class has welcomed our newest internal transfers! These students have worked hard to transfer out of the College of Arts and Sciences and into the School of Nursing! They will be taking summer courses to "catch-up" to the second year nurses and they will be a wonderful addition to the class of 2013!

Anna

Take 2...The First One's Hard to read!

2011-02-23T23:54:00.003-05:00

Hello everyone! It's almost March...which means that midterms are upon us! So I'll keep it short and just answer the questions posted in the last few days.

Q: Which nursing classes are necessary for a student to complete in order to become eligible for a Patient Care Assistant position in the hospital?

A: The second year nursing students will be eligible to work as a PCA as well as pass the Clinical Nurse Assistant licensure exam at the end of this semester. The two main courses that cover this content are NUCO 2130 and NUCO 2310. NUCO 2130, Clinical and Interactive Skills I, is taken fall semester of second year and is where we learn all of our clinical skills with Reba! NUCO 2310, Intro to Nursing and Health Care Services, is our class with the clinical component where we get our first taste of being a "real nurse!" It is a medical/surgical rotation, and Anna is on the Neurosurgery floor, whereas I am on the Digestive Health Unit.

Q: Are nursing students required to take a statistics class?

A: No, Statistics is not part of the required curriculum for the BSN program. However, statistics is recommended for some nursing graduate schools. Personally, I took Biostatistics and really enjoyed it!

Hope this helps and that all those in VA are staying warm this week! What happened to 70 degrees and sunny?

Brooke

More Q&A!

2011-02-23T23:39:00.002-05:00

Hello everyone! It's almost March...which means that midterms are upon us! So I'll keep it short and just answer the questions posted in the last few days.

Q: Which nursing classes are necessary for a student to complete in order to become eligible for a Patient Care Assistant position in the hospital?

Q: Are nursing students required to take a statistics class?

Hope this helps and that all those in VA are staying warm this week! What happened to 70 degrees and sunny?

Brooke

New semester and questions answered!

2011-02-06T15:12:00.002-05:00

It's a start to a new semester and there's a lot going on around at UVA. Second year nurses have begun clinical rotations (I'm in neurosurgery!) and as Spring approaches nurses gather outside the SON between classes to catch some sun.

To answer a few questions...

Q: Are students exposed to many fields of nursing or should they know in what area they want to specialize in? Any info on neonatology?

A: Yes! Students do rotations in different units. Also, in the introductory nursing course, students learn about many different fields of nursing. You do not specialize in the 4 years of undergrad at UVA; however, you can go on to specialize in our graduate programs or elsewhere. I too am interested in neonatology and although we don't specifically have a neonatal intensive care unit rotation you can look into shadowing or graduate degrees!

Q: What study abroad opportunities does UVA offer and when?

A: UVA SON does have study abroad opportunities which I believe are ONLY for 4th year students. These opportunities are exchange programs. Destinations? Australia, New Zeland, Denmark and more! You can also study abroad in the summer or during January term when you are not enrolled in nursing courses. I hear Semester at Sea is incredible!

Ta-ta for now.

Anna

Finals and more!

2010-12-05T08:24:00.002-05:00

As the semester comes to a close a lot of clinical practicing and studying has been going on at the SON.

Q: What clinical opportunities do we have here at UVA's SON?

A: Well to answer your question Elizabeth, I don't have a comprehensive list of all the 'rounds' offered throughout the 3 years of clinicals you will have; however, here are the units that the 2nd year students will be working in next semester! I'm in Neurosurgery! Others include..

-Digestive health
-Cardio-thoracic
-Oncology
-General medicine
-Neurology/epilepsy
-Geriatric/palliative care

Again, many of these will change through out your years in the nursing school but that should give you a good taste of what UVA nurses get to experience!

Happy Holidays

Anna

Finals are upon us!

2010-12-01T16:59:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone!

Finals are quickly approaching! It's a scary thought that this semester is almost over...it has truly flown by! In an effort to procrastinate from studying, I thought I'd check the blog and noticed that a few of you had questions.

I tried answering "Guest's" question in the ShoutBox but realized there's a length limit. So to answer more fully, YES, you can definitely apply to the BSN program out of high school! This is what I did and it is much easier than trying to transfer into the nursing school later on. So if you want to be a nurse as a senior in high school, go for it! I've never regretted my decision!

Doreen, I took both AP Biology and AP Chemistry in high school. I have not taken Pharmacology or Pathophysiology yet, but in the first two years of the program, I can say that I have not used most of what I learned in AP Chem. Of course, I can only speak for myself, and I'm sure Chemistry will be useful during Pharmacology. Anatomy & Physiology and Human Biology are classes that are included in our curriculum, so AP Bio could definitely help with that. Overall, take what classes you're interested in for a good chance at doing well! Course rigor (a college admissions buzz word!) is looked at in every college application, so take which classes you want to take and think you can succeed in! From my experience, that's the best advice I can give you!

Back to studying for now! Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving!

Brooke

11.23.10

2010-11-23T17:31:00.000-05:00

Hi Readers!

I hope you've found the recent posts to be helpful and entertaining. They both did a really great job explaining how great UVA SON really is. I just realized we left a question unanswered from a couple months ago, so I want to address it as it sounds like something that would help a lot of people looking into UVA SON.

Q: I am currently working full time at MJH, raising my daughter and taking classes at PVCC just because I love college. I've finally decided what I want to do, and its Nursing! I've never been so excited in so long. However, do I just go in as a first year? I've been told that its impossible to work full time and go to nursing school. Is this true? I feel that I am MORE than capable! I've never wanted anything so bad, and I cant believe it is impossible and has never been done! Any advice would be most helpful!!

A: SO glad you have found your way into Nursing! It is such a great field, because not only do we get to learn and apply our medical knowledge, but we also get to connect with patients on a very personal level.

Judging from you enthusiasm, it is definitely not impossible for you to get your BSN! It will take a lot of work and coordination to balance school with your home life, but it's not impossible and it has been done before. In fact, there is someone in the SON right now who lives in Richmond, has two children, and commutes to UVA. All it takes is dedication.

In terms of where to start, it depends on whether you have an undergraduate degree yet? If not, I would suggest applying to the BSN program. If you already have a degree in another field, I would suggest you look into the Clinical Nurse Leader program (yes, it's still nursing!). Because each situation is different, and because I don't work in the SON Admissions Office, I can't really tell you exactly how to go about applying because I'm not sure if there are other options for you aside from applying directly as a first year. You may qualify to transfer into UVA SON if you have certain classes under your belt (found on the UVA SON Prospective Student Website "Prerequisites").

This advice goes to everyone...please remember that although we REALLY want to help and we may know a lot about applying to the SON, we can't give you 100% fool-proof admissions advice because frankly, that's not our job (although many of us would LOVE to work in Admissions because we love UVA SON so much-- maybe that's just me.. :-D )

Hope everyone has a GREAT Thanksgiving!
...For anyone following the VT vs UVA game..... GO HOOS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

-Haley

School of Nursing Faculty!

2010-11-17T20:24:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone!

Something I have been meaning to share for a while is an aspect of the UVA School of Nursing that I admire a ton. I have had the privilege of being in classes with some excellent teachers in the nursing program. Remember: If you're stressed, struggling, or enthusiastic RELAY this to your teachers and the administrators in the SON. You will be pleasantly surprised at how much of a difference a bit of one-on-one time can make in easing issues. Also, take advantage of how intimate this school is and go ahead and get to know your teachers! After all, as Connie Lee (Life Span and Development teacher) always says to the nurses: "You are my future colleagues!"

If you are looking to transfer into the nursing school stop by! Get to know the admin and there will always be people to help you work towards applying to the SON.

Happy Thanksgiving (almost!)

Anna

November Update!

2010-11-17T16:56:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone!

Boy has it been awhile! So much has been going on since the last post!

On November 6th, the School of Nursing had their annual pinning ceremony. This is a tradition in which each student receives a pin to signify their accomplishments during each year of nursing school. Each class gets a different pin, and the second year pin I got this year was white, with the UVA crest. Dean Fontaine, Dean Carroll, and our Nursing Student Council President gave reports about all of the nursing school happenings from from finances to our fourth year students abroad in Denmark and New Zealand!

In our Clinical Skills class, we've really picked up the pace and have learned so much. It's hard to believe the semester is already coming to a close and that I will be working in the hospital in January!

Now to answer your questions --

Q: Is there a program for LPNs to go from RSN - BSN?

A: Yes, there is a program for you! Here is a link to tell you more about the RSN-BSN Program of Study.

http://www.nursing.virginia.edu/programs/rnbsn/

Q: Do you accept third years who want to transfer into the nursing school?

A: The nursing school does not accept current third year applications. Students looking to transfer must apply in their second year to enter into the program beginning in the summer session before their third year. For current second years at UVa wishing to transfer in, here is a link for more information.

http://nursing.virginia.edu/programs/transferbsn-3yt/

This semester is flying by!

Hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving!

--Brooke

09.15.10

2010-09-15T21:39:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone!!!

I feel like it has literally been YEARS since I've posted on here..I apologize, but if I do say so myself I think the Brooke and Anna are doing an amazing job answering questions and keeping it entertaining on here! It's an exciting time of year because many people will start to realize that nursing is AWESOME and will start inquiring about transferring to UVA. So for all of you interested in transferring...GO FOR IT and congrats on getting a head start on the application process! ; ) I was a transfer myself so if you have any questions about external transfer, just ask me!

So I just wanted to update everyone and what's going on with me and why I haven't been posting/won't be posting as much this year. Not only is it my 4th year and I'll be frantically running around, studying for the NCLEX-RN, and applying for jobs..but I am also writing for the Wall Street Journal! An amazing opportunity fell in my lap, actually from recognition from creating this blog, and I am one of 9 students selected to write for the Hire Education blog for the Wall Street Journal.

Basically, I will be writing about all my failures, successes, hints and tips and all my experiences in finding a job during my 4th year. I will be blogging for about a year so even if this doesn't apply to you yet because you're not in nursing school, check it out later because it may give some good advice to all nursing students (non-nursing students as well, there are 8 other people blogging!!).

To Visit, Go Here:
Hire Education Blog

Now, onto questions... :-D

Q: Do I have to take anatomy and physiology completed before applying to UVA or can I finish my courses at UVA then apply to the nursing school?
A: No matter what, in order to apply to UVA SON you have to have Anatomy and Physiology completed before transferring as a 3rd year. Are you currently at UVA right now and wanting to apply to nursing school as a transfer? If you are at UVA right now you can be taking A&P right now and still apply, as long as it's completed before you would enter the SON. I also want to clear something up just in case...If you apply to the UVA School of Nursing, it is a separate application than to UVA in general. If you wanted to take some classes at UVA before applying to Nursing School, you would have to apply to the College of Arts and Sciences at UVA, then after you finish your classes, apply to the School of Nursing, meaning you would have to wait a while and perhaps graduate a year later than expected. I wouldn't recommend that, because it seems like the roundabout way of doing things. I would finish taking the A&P classes and apply to UVA SON directly.

--Haley

9.6.10

2010-09-06T16:49:00.002-04:00

Hey guys!

It's started to finally cool off here in Charlottesville and the weather has been absolutely gorgeous -- 80's and sunny every day! In a few more weeks, I bet it will be perfect weather for scrubs :)

Just wanted to check in and answer a few of the questions that have been posted recently.

Q: What do you suggest to show interest in nursing through your application?

A: There's no single right thing to do to show your interest in nursing as long as you do it somehow! I am an out of state student too, so I can give you my experiences but there is a wide range of things you could do to show your interest. For example, healthcare-related extracurricular activities, such as volunteering in a hospital, are a perfect way to show your interest in nursing. My local hospital has a "Volunteen" program over the summer that is a good way to get involved. But there are tons of different opportunities and ways to show your interest. You also want to be taking the highest level courses that your high school offers. Here's the link for the FAQ's on the School of Nursing's website.

http://www.nursing.virginia.edu/programs/highschoolbsn/faq/

Q: Does the School of Nursing or UVA in general take second semester college freshmen transfers?

A: The School of Nursing does not accept second semester transfers. Here is the link on the SON website to answer more questions you might have as an external transfer.

http://www.nursing.virginia.edu/programs/transferbsn-2yt/faq/

On the other hand, the College does accept midyear transfer students. Their website says there are about 35 slots for January admission with a few hundred students applying each year.

Hope this helps and keep the questions coming!

Enjoy your week!

--Brooke

08.24.2010

2010-08-24T11:02:00.002-04:00

Ray Ray UVA!

To all those interested in the school of nursing, or those already at UVA, welcome! My name is Anna Gainey and I'm a second year nursing student. I worked this past summer as an Orientation Leader at UVA and got quite a bit of practice in course advising nursing students and more. Feel free to ask anything! The School of Nursing at UVA is one place where you are certain to find some of the most friendly, helpful, and welcoming people.

Anna G.

Welcome back everyone!

2010-08-22T16:22:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone!

I'm Brooke, a 2nd year nursing student and will be helping out with the blog from time to time.

I just wanted to say welcome to all the new first years and welcome back to everyone else!

To answer a few questions:

Q: Where are the best places to rent?

A: For grad students, I'm not sure where is popular. But a few different leasing companies that I know of for you to check out are MSC, CBS Rentals, and Wade Apartments.

Q: Does the nursing program cover courses that are needed for the MCAT's?

A: As far as I know, nursing school will not prepare you for the MCAT's. Most of the classes we take are pretty specific to nursing and we don't take a lot of the pre-reqs for Pre-Med, like Organic Chemistry. For more information on our curriculum, check out the UVA SON website

http://www.nursing.virginia.edu/

Hope everyone has a good week!

--Brooke

07.10.10

2010-07-10T19:53:00.000-04:00

Hello!

I hope everyone is doing well and enjoying their summer. I just wanted to let everyone know that I will not be checking this blog or updating it with new information until closer to the time that school starts back up (August 24.....ah!!).

For everyone who is looking to apply to UVA School of Nursing in the coming year, keep checking back here for helpful answers to questions and general information.

For those cute little newbie FIRST YEARS getting ready to start in August, congrats and good luck! In the meantime, August 24 is still a while away (I keep telling myself this...) so enjoy your summer, stay up late, and most importantly WEAR SUNSCREEN : )

--Haley

06.11.10

2010-06-11T12:41:00.000-04:00

WOW! It's been forever since I've made a new post. I apologize for anyone that's been waiting, but more than likely everyone's been enjoying this beautiful summer weather (like ME!).

There have been a few questions on the sidebar Q&A box that I, as a student, have no clue how to answer! If you have questions referring to admissions and other technical stuff, you should ask someone in the UVA Registrars/Admissions office, or better yet attend one of Theresa Carroll's online chatrooms OR visit UVA for yourself!

Referring to the Diploma program question, I have no clue how you would fit into transferring into UVa. That's something you have to ask Admissions directly.

For the person asking if they could apply in their 2nd year to UVA as an external transfer... No. UVa no longer accepts 3rd Year external transfers. However, you can apply to the 2nd Year transfer program, and repeat your 2nd year, meaning you'd graduate 1 year later (which isn't bad if you know you want to get your BSN!!!!)

Anyway, I hope everyone is enjoying their summer and I hope all the newly accepted transfers and baby 1st years are getting excited about UVA School of Nursing!

Please, Please, PLEASE let me know if you have any questions or want to speak with me personally about UVA SON!! :)

-Haley :)

4.25.10

2010-04-25T10:14:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone,

I'm just going to answer some questions that have been posted.

Q: I will be starting in the Fall at UVA in the Post-Masters PMH CNS/NP program. I have been to UVA once for the information session. I need to know more about parking. I will be coming to the campus one day a week for at least 3 semesters. I live in Chesapeake, VA. Thanks!

A: Parking is very limited for the SON, I'm not exactly sure how to answer your question because I know the parking garage near the nursing school is only open to public after 5 pm and on the weekends. You should speak to someone in the SON about this specifically.
--- The parking garage however is located on the same road as the nursing schools and is underneath McLeod (the old one).

Q: What is the average GPA and ACT/SAT scores of students admitted to UVA SON?
A: Like Theresa Carroll has said to all of the families at the Info Sessions, you will never get an "average" score because they range all over the scale. However, they usually fall in the average mid-range...but again it's not all SAT and GPA scores that count. GPAs are usually reflective of a highly motivated student and the students are usually in the top of their high school graduating classes.

Q: Is the actual school of nursing located on UVa's campus? or is it a separate building around the area?
A: The SON is on the UVA campus, but it's located near the hospital, which means it's separate from all the other science, psychology, engineering buildings, etc. Look at a map to see where it's located in respect to Cabell Hall. It's not isolated from anything but at the same time we as nursing students spend most of our time there.

Q: Is it possible to apply to both the SON and the school of arts and sciences?
A: I don't think it's possible to do that, you have to choose one school in which you want to apply.

Q: How difficult is it to get into the SON as an out-of-state student?
A: I can't answer this question...That's something you need to ask admissions, I'm just a student! : )

Keep your questions comin' !

4.17.10

2010-04-17T12:29:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone!

Happy Saturday! :) I just got back from an open house at the School of Nursing and I really enjoyed being a student panelist. I was there to answer questions from prospective students and families about the nursing school. It was pretty much an offline version of this blog!! If you haven't had a chance, I would really recommend visiting the School of Nursing and attending one of these Info sessions.

[ATTENTION]: According to the UVA Admissions website incoming First-Year students' admissions decisions were mailed and available online APRIL 1 and for External Transfers, they will be mailed and available online MAY 1.

For everyone who's gotten admissions decisions, I hope this blog has helped you in your application process! Some of you may have been disappointed but some of you may have been relieved to see that all your hard work paid off. For those who didn't get into UVA SON this go round, don't get discouraged..if you really want to pursue nursing then this is one of the BEST schools to attend. There are opportunities for 2nd year transfer and 3rd year transfer (3rd tear transfer is only for students already at UVA).

For those who were accepted into the UVA SON, you have until MAY 1 to accept!! I would strongly encourage you to do so! If you have any hesitation about coming to UVA once accepted, please use this blog as an opportunity to ask your questions about "WHY UVA??".

Visiting UVA always helps, that's what sold me and through all 3 years of my time here I have loved absolutely every minute of it.

So, for those who didn't get it--keep your chin up, there's always a next time.
For those who got accepted---COME TO UVA!!!

Q: I'm trying to transfer into the SON as a 3rd year transfer, are the summer courses mandatory?
A: As far as I know yes. The classes you take during the summer will catch you up with all the other 3rd year nursing students once you start in the fall. So, if you don't take the summer classes then you'll have to stay an extra year and then technically you wouldn't be a 3rd year anymore because you'd be graduating a year later. In general, when you apply to the 3rd year transfer program it is assumed that you will take the summer classes.
As always, ask your questions or just leave me some feedback about how I'm doing.
I'd love to hear from you!

--Haley

3.28.10

2010-03-28T10:28:00.000-04:00

HELLO!

Sorry it's been FOREVER since the last post, I've been extremely busy being a 2nd semester 3rd year (aahh!) and I know MUCH has changed since then. CONGRATS to the 3rd year internal transfers who already received their admissions offers! It feels great to have hard work pay off. I recently had lunch with one of the newly accepted 3rd years and it was great to hear her questions and to give advice to someone who was in MY position, a year ago.

And for everyone else waiting for their decisions, try not to worry and stress over it and have fun in the meantime! That was the BEST advice Dean TC ever gave me and so now I'm sharing it with you.

I know this blog has been used primarily for prospective students, but now that some of you "prospectives" may become ACTUAL students, please use this blog to ask ANY of your questions about what to expect once in the SON.

3rd Year transfer? Don't know what to expect for the summer? What was the clinical experience like? ASK!
1st Years? Not sure about anything? Days on the Lawn questions? ASK!
2nd Year transfer? What's the curriculum like? When do you have your first clinical? ASK!

For questions related to the Stats of who got in/how many will be accepted, please refer to the below posts. Since I am only a student I don't have the resources to tell you that information. I am simply here to give advice, share my opinion, and help you become a little less worried or anxious about anything in the SON!!

As always, ask your questions!
Haley xo

RN to BSN and transfer applications

2010-03-22T09:59:00.004-04:00

As of today we have about 90 applications for external transfer and over 50 applications for the RN to BSN program.
Decisions should be posted by May 1.

Nutrition pre-req on shout mix

2010-03-22T09:59:00.001-04:00

Nutrition is only a required pre-req for internal transfers. There are not any pre-reqs for external transfers.

2010-02-10T08:28:00.002-05:00

Jan 18 posts ---

Regarding acceptance rates:
For Fall 2010, the admissions office reports that we have approximately 550 applications for first year nursing. They will be aiming for a class size of 60-62. That means we have about 9 applicants for every one seat available.

For transfer, we typically have about 120+ applicants for 14-16 seats available.

2010-02-10T08:25:00.001-05:00

Going back to posts on Jan. 18 -----

Regarding switching your school on the application:
This may be possible to do, but you will need to make the request through the office of undergraduate admission.

2010-02-10T08:21:00.002-05:00

Onto the question about residency:

Again, please direct these questions to the office of undergraduate admission. Haley is doing a great job managing this blog but I think it has become bigger than she, or we, can handle. We are happy to answer questions about the nursing school, but we cannot answer questions about residency, applications, etc. except at a very, very basic level. Please ask the students who run this blog anything about being a nursing student but we can't respond to questions like this as we are not the experts and are not qualified to give out this type of advice. Please contact either the Office of Undergraduate Admission or specifically for a residency question, the Virginia Status Office.

2010-02-10T08:17:00.002-05:00

I'm just going to post a few answers separately to get going.

Regarding the common app question:
The admissions process at U.Va. is completely run by our Office of Undergraduate Admission. The School of Nursing does not own the admissions process. All admissions materials go through the main office. One application, one office, one school you can apply to. Questions about the application should be directed to the admissions office. We can answer any question about the SON, but they need to respond to you about the application. That's the long answer. The short answer is the SON does not have any additional application for admission.

2010-02-10T08:13:00.001-05:00

This is Theresa Carroll from the SON student services office. I'm going to try to help Haley out here with a few questions if I can figure out how to work the blog! Yikes! I'm feeling technically challenged!

02.09.10

2010-02-09T16:31:00.000-05:00

Hey Everyone!

I have been receiving all of your questions and I have been working on getting them all answered! Please keep asking them (I wait for 2-3 to accumulate before I make a new post).

Anyways, now that second semester is underway and I've gotten back in the swing of things, I can remember back to LAST year and recall of how I was feeling at this time. For some of you, you have already applied to the BSN program as hopeful first years, and to others you are either STILL working on your application or anxiously awaiting the March 1st deadline (RN-BSN, transfers, DNP). But DON'T FRET! The worst is over and now you've been given time to relax, and be proud in knowing that you've done everything you possible could to support your application.

Previous Questions:

Q: (from Sonia) I would like to apply for the nursing program..so i would like to know what classes i should be taking right now at Nova.

A: This all depends on which program you are trying to transfer into! If you're trying to be a transfer student you need to refer to the "Program of Study" for second year transfers (I assume thats what you want since you are an external and third-year external transfer no-longer exists).

Example of Pre-Nursing Requirements for 2nd Year External Transfers:
Fall:
English Composition or Elective- 3 credits
Biology- 3 credits
Social Science/History - 3 credits
Humanities/Fine Arts- 3 credits
Elective - 3 credits
Spring:
English Composition- 3 credits
Elective- 3 credits
Social Science/History- 3 credits
Humanities/Fine Arts- 3 credits
Natural Science/Math/ Or General Education elective- 3 credits
** If you want to find a different Program of Study, please refer to the column on the R side of the webpage labeled "posts by topic". **
---
Q: I was wondering how hard it is to minor in something else while majoring in nursing?

A: In my experience it's not that hard at all! I am a sociology minor. However, I do think that it is VERY useful to start accumulating classes that qualify towards your minor at the very beginning of your college career because once third and fourth years roll around there is very little room for extra classes (other than the required Nursing ones). Refer to the Program of Study of your choice to look for "elective" slots or other classes that you've already taken to plan your minor courses. So in sum, if you are determined, it is possible but takes some working towards.
---
Q: I applied to the university through common app. Do I have to do a second application for the nursing school or that is all?

A: I haven't heard back from Theresa Carroll about this one so I am not 100% positive, BUT I think that if you've applied through common app and selected "School of Nursing" that is all you have to do, other than send in your other supplements to UVA like your transcripts, SAT scores, etc.
---
Q: I am waiting for residency rights in Virginia. I am afraid that if I apply to the SON now without obtaining my rights yet, and get accepted, that I won't be able to afford tuition. Is there any way I can freeze my acceptance or should I try to wait until I become a legal Virginia resident?

A: Since this is a very special circumstance I think you will have to ask someone in the SON this question because I'm just a student and don't know the in's and out's of the application process. Contact the SON OR partcipate in the live chatroom with Theresa Carroll this Wednesday, February 10, 8:00 - 9:00pm and ask your question!

As always, I'm always here when you need me so keep asking your great questions! : )

01.17.10

2010-01-18T21:54:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone! This week is the start of spring semester 2010. On a more personal note, this is the start of my SECOND semester of Third Year which they all say is the most challenging one. SO, all of the valuable pieces of information I learn throughout this semester about "surviving third year" and how third year is for transfer students like myself, I will post on here! Please keep asking your questions, and if you have no questions, just leave a comment and let us know what you think of the blog!

As always, here are your questions:

Q: How do I apply as an RN?

A: I can TOTALLY understand how the application process can be difficult. First, check out the RN-BSN Frequently Asked Questions website. From that website, under the heading "Where do I get an application" click the link and find yourself at the screen below:

Notice the red circle on the left. Click the PDF link from there and Ta-DA there's your application! Just check the box for "RN to BSN transfer". If you need more detailed help, PLEASE email/call or stop by the UVA School of Nursing..there are SO many people willing to help you!

Q: I applied to the college of arts and sciences, not being sure of nursing yet. Is there anything that I can do to switch which school I applied to?

A: Honestly, I am not sure...You should probably contact the UVA Registrar and specifically Theresa Carroll or the School of Nursing Registrar. However, most of the time they do not make special exceptions, but I do encourage you to pursue this.

Q: What is the acceptance rate for undergraduate admission at UVA SON?

A: Each year the number of applicants varies, but there are usually a considerable amount of applications for a limited number of openings. In terms of the number of applicants being offered admission, the number various depending on what year you are applying into and the number of applicants competing for the same spot. In terms of the number of people actually ACCEPTING their offer of admission, I know that number is very high because everyone who applies to UVA SON has worked very hard on their application and are ecstatic to finally be granted admission.

12.29.09

2009-12-29T22:54:00.001-05:00

Happy Holidays!

I hope everyone is having a great break from school during this holiday season! I just wanted to address a few questions we've received lately.

Q: I was wondering if you could give me a ballpark range for what the average GPAs and SAT scores are for students who get into UVA SON?

A: Since I don't have access to the statistics of previous SON applicants who got accepted, I unfortunately cannot give a range of exact scores for SATs and GPAs. However, I do know that the students who are accepted are generally in the top of their high school graduating class, take advanced high school classes/or challenging college courses, and have good if not great SAT scores. However, it doesn't mean that if you're weak in one area that you won't get accepted. Being accepted is all about being well rounded and showing that you're driven and motivated!

Q: Does applying for school of nursing gives someone better chance to get in than school of science & arts?

A: In my experience, No. There is a smaller amount of space available for incoming First Years in the SON than the CLAS (College of Arts and Sciences). It used to be a rumor that applying to the SON was the easiest way to get into UVA. THAT IS NOT TRUE ANYMORE! Not only has it become extremely competitive, but it also has the highest acceptance rate of applicants (meaning hardly anyone says "no" to their invitation to attend UVA SON). BUT, do not let this scare you! If you really want to apply to the SON I encourage you to do so! UVA has one of the best nursing school's in the country and it's always worth a try!

Keep asking your questions, I'll be checking in periodically over the holiday so I can answer your questions in a timely manner!

: ) -- Haley

12.09.09

2009-12-09T16:55:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone!

Just wanted to update you with some more information regarding questions we have received. As you may or may not know, classes are over at UVA and tomorrow begins final examinations! If you have a question, ask it now (either comment or post to the chatbox to the right) because with final exams and Winter break approaching, it may be hard to get your questions answered in the time that you need them.

Here are answers to your questions you asked previously!

Q: I'm wondering if there is an undergrad program at UVA for those who want to get their RN but already have a bachlors in another field?

A: The SON doesn't offer any second undergrad degrees, however we do offer a Clinical Nurse Leader Masters program. That is specifically for those who have a degree in something else but still want to become a nurse. This program is a full-time program that leads to a MSN degree after 24 months. The next entering cohort will enroll in May 2010 and graduate in May 2012.

PLEASE visit this link for more information, it's a great option for those who have a degree in something other than nursing! http://www.nursing.virginia.edu/programs/cnl/

There's always a way to become a nurse!

Q: If your SAT & SAT subject test scores are weak but you have good extracurriculars, a great GPA and lots of clinical experience what are the chances you will get in?

A: All sorts of factors play a role in the admissions process. But, the Admissions office knows that you, as a potential nursing student, are more than just a measure your SAT scores. Weight isn't given to one single factor in the admissions process, and bad SAT scroes will probably not kill your chances of getting in as long as you can counteract that somewhere else in your application, such as through experiences, GPA, extracurriculars, or recommendations.

Great questions! Keep 'em comin!
Good luck to the BSN applicants (senior's in HS), remember your application is due January 1st!

- Haley

11.29.09

2009-11-29T14:08:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone!

So I recently recieved notification that some of you may be interested in information about applications. Below you will find some really relevant dates and helpful info about applying to UVA, whether you are currently a high schooler, undergrad, or post-grad looking to apply.

If you have more specific questions about applications please please PLEASE ask them in the comments section or the chat box to the right of this post (all information you post there will be anonymous and you are not required to state your name!)

Admission Deadlines

BSN: January 1
PhD: February 1
RN-BSN, Undergraduate Transfer, DNP: March 1
MSN, Post-Masters Certificate (to enroll in the fall): April 1
Direct Entry MSN: Clinical Nurse Leader &
MSN & Post-Masters Certificate (to enroll in the summer): Both November 1st.

ATTENTION! For all of you already-Wahoo's who are looking to transfer into the SON from a different school at UVA, there is an:

Internal Transfer Info Session December 2nd

When? 3:30 pm Wednesday Dec 2nd

Where? CMNE, Room 1008

Also:

Doctoral Information Session for Prospective Students

When? Tuesday December 1st 2009. 5:00 pm

Where? McLeod Hall, Room 1004

Please post your questions about applications here, so that I can further help answer your specific questions and others can learn from your questions too! Look forward to hearing from you, don't be shy! :)

-- Haley

11.14.09

2009-11-14T13:29:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone!

I just got back from a prospective student open house at it was AMAZING! I hope everyone who is interested in UVA SON has the opportunity to go to one of these open houses because not only do you get a lot of valuable information about admissions and applying to UVA, but you can also ask Dean Theresa Carroll and current UVA SON students your questions! To find out the dates of other open houses, please refer to the UVA SON website!

One thing that I thought about today during the student panel at the open house was not just how AWESOME the UVA SON is, but also about how welcoming everyone in the Nursing School is to the students. From professors to staff, everyone in the SON is committed to helping the nursing students. Just the other day I was sitting in the student center in Claude Moore Nursing Education Building (the new spiffy building!) and a 4th year started talking to me out of the blue, asking about how classes were, how clinicals were treating me, and if I had any questions about next semester!

I love the UVA SON because it has a small, close-knit atmosphere that I feel like many other schools around college campuses don't have. The UVA SON feels like a family, where everyone is helping each other out and everyone tries to get to know everyone else. Last year there were days when you could walk into the building and find a huge pan of cookies, with icing and sprinkles where everyone was invited to decorate their own cookie before classes! Another day there was tons of yarn and thread scattered around tables with different beads and other things where we could make our own friendship bracelets between classes.

I feel like instances like these are rare around the UVA campus in all schools except nursing. I love UVA SON for these reasons and many more! Hopefully you can join our family at the SON, and as always...comment below and ask your questions!!

-----
Q: Is there a limit to how many times I can apply to the SON?

A: As far as I know, NO! Keep applying if you are determined. I would suggest apply to other nursing schools as well..but if you are dead set on UVA nursing, I say go for it!

Until next time...
Haley

11.3.09

2009-11-03T19:43:00.004-05:00

UPDATE: The SON Open House Panel has been rescheduled from THIS Saturday, Nov. 7th to next Saturday, Nov 14th.!!
---------------------------------------
Hi!

It's been a while since we've posted, it's been a busy few weeks! Something fun that just happened at UVA for Halloween was the annual Trick-or-Treating on the lawn. SNAV (student nurses association of virginia) which is a UVA nursing organization, participated by handing out candy to all the cute little skunks, lady bugs, miley cyruses, and of course power rangers that came out from the community to trick-or-treat. It is an awesome way that UVA mingles with the Charlottesville community, soo...all you Wahoo hopefuls, this is just another reason why UVA is awesome!

Just for random fun (ha), I thought I could show you all what your years at UVA would look like if you were to become one of Mr. Jefferson's nurses ;-). These links will show you all the classes you will take up until graduation, and all of them can be found on the SON website. Just click on the link below that pertains to what year you want to enroll.

REMEMBER- a new change for 2010 applicant cycle- External transfers can only transfer into the 2nd year program and internal transfers can only transfer into the 3rd year.

1st year entry (traditional high school): http://www.nursing.virginia.edu/media/BSN.pdf

External Transfer- 2nd year entry only: http://www.nursing.virginia.edu/media/BSNSecondYearTransfer.pdf

Internal Transfer- 3rd year entry only: http://nursing.virginia.edu/media/BSNThirdYearTransfer.pdf

-- For RN-BSN programs of study (there are three options) visit the UVA website under admissions information for prospective students!--

I know right now may be a slow time in terms of applying to UVA, but make sure you're putting your foot in the door by volunteering at a hospital or helping out in your community in as many ways possible! Also, don't forget about coming to tour the SON and making sure you RSVP!

--Haley

10.19.09

2009-10-19T14:32:00.001-04:00

Hi everybody! I am Marissa and I am also a third year transfer. I was actually an external transfer, and came from Virginia Tech.

Previous Questions:

Q: I dont understand the new external transfer guidelines. I thought the SON program was only two years. Am I wrong, or is the program actually longer. Do you enter the program in your junior year, or can you enter sooner?

A: The SON program is actually 4 years, but the majority of the core nursing classes are in your third and fourth year, which is why you can transfer in (and take lots of summer classes as a 3rd year transfer). The earlier you enter the program the better, so entering at a second year student would be the best!

---

Q: why did they change it for external transfers?

A: I am not sure, but if Theresa Carroll made the decision, it must be a good one!

---

Q: I applied to the MSN program last month. How long does it usually take to find out if you've been accepted into the program?

A: Since this blog mostly focuses on undergraduate applicants, we can't answer your question with certainty. My best guess would be to contact someone in the SON. The Master's program starts every fall, so I am assuming you applied for the fall of 2010-2011 year. Applications are not due until April 1st. Unfortunately you will probably not hear back until next spring?

Keep posting your comments!

--- Announcement---
An Info Session will be held November 14th for prospective students at UVA SON.
Refer to the website for details and make sure to RSVP!
Link to Info Session Details!

10.08.09- New change regarding transfers!

2009-10-08T14:38:00.001-04:00

Hey Everyone,

Just an important NEW piece of information regarding transfers into the UVA SON!
According to Theresa Carroll:

"We only take external transfers into the 2nd year of the program and internal transfers into the 3rd year of our program. This is a change that is effective with the 2010 admissions cycle"

------

Q: What are some of the classes that I should take before applying to UVA school of nursing? Specifically what are the sciences that are required for entrance into the program?

A: Well this depends on what program you are applying into. The requirements are different for students entering from high school compared to students applying for 2nd/3rd year transfer. My best suggestion would be to go here: http://www.nursing.virginia.edu/admissions/ and select the Undergraduate admissions option that applies to you. Once you select the option that applies to you, you'll be able to find the pre-requisites.

As always, keep posting your comments!
-- Haley :)

09.30.09

2009-09-30T17:01:00.006-04:00

Hi Everyone!

Sorry it's taken me a while to update this! Hopefully within the next week or so I'll have more contributors to answer your questions. And PLEASE don't be afraid to ask questions, all you need to do is comment on this posting with your question and hopefully within a couple of days someone will create a new post answering your questions.

Previous Questions:

Q: If I apply to the Nursing School and I am not admitted, will I be considered for admissions into the general school of arts and sciences?
A: If you apply to the Nursing School at UVA and aren't admitted, you will not be automatically considered for admissions into the College of Arts & Sciences. Have a backup plan! If you aren't accepted the first go round, you have two more opportunities..2nd year transfer, and 3rd year transfer!

---
Q: Does UVA accept third year external transfer?
A: Absolutely! Approximately half of the 3rd year transfers are external transfers. In fact, one of the other editors of this blog transferred from Virginia Tech! If you are a prospective third year transfer, work hard, get lots of experience in the health care setting, and have confidence but also have a back up plan!

---
Q: Does UVA school of nursing have a waiting list, or can I apply with the hope of starting the following semester.
A: There is a waiting list, but I would strongly recommend that you have a back up option/school in case you aren't admitted. Because spots in UVA SON are highly sought after, it is very rare for someone to decline their acceptance into the SON.

Helpful Tip:
The best thing prospectives can do is volunteer and immerse yourself in nursing before you decide to make the plunge into applying. You never know, you may decide that nursing isn't for you once you actually participate OR your experiences will make you even MORE passionate about nursing.

-- Haley

Welcome!

2009-09-09T20:02:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone!

Welcome to the newly created UVA School of Nursing blog made just for prospective students! I'm really excited about this and hopefully we can answer any and ALL of your questions.

There will be a couple of students from each year who will be able to post responses to your questions, so bear with us for the first few weeks and hopefully we'll all be able to get this thing rolling!

I, personally, am a third year internal transfer student, so if you have any questions about that let me know!

Talk to yall soon!