Final grades for winter '13
Cell bio: C+
Math 092 (algebra II): D
Quarter GPA: 1.67
I got a friendly warning from financial aid that I did not have a 2.0 last quarter and risk losing my aid. (Have I mentioned how much I hate math?!) I didn't even need to take that math class but it's required if I eventually want to take statistics (which I do), and once again I needed a second class in order to qualify for aid. I can retake the placement test and test out of it altogether. The placement test is multiple choice and I just took the course so I think I could probably go this route. But that ugly D will stay on my transcript forever unless I retake the course so I will probably go this route but not for another few quarters.
My grade in cell bio is rather disappointing. I maintained a B/B- all quarter long then came the final which was a real doozie. The thing that irks me most is I received a C+ in chemistry. I know I learned and understood WAY more in bio than I did in chemistry so how did I walk away with the same grade? Oh well, I did pass and can move on to anatomy but I will need at least an A- to average out the devastating C+ in cell bio. I'm not going to lie, I am terrified. Anatomy is a very hard class and it can make or break someone pursuing a chance at nursing school.
I did finally meet with an advisor this quarter for the very first time in 2 years of trying! I am on the right track (but MUST do VERY well in my 3 remaining science courses), she also explained the recent application requirement changes.
My school now requires a 2.85 science GPA (separate from the 2.0 in the other pre reqs) in order to APPLY to the nursing program. Then you are invited to take the TEAS test which has minimum requirements in each area but I'm sure those who are accepted score much higher. There are 40 people accepted each quarter so they just accept the top 40 scores. They used to require a 3.0 with higher penalty requirements if there are any repeats in the science classes. I am glad they lowered it and repeats are no longer penalized! Still though a 2.85 is basically a B average which is a challenge in itself. All of the nursing schools in Washington state are so very competitive and I literally lose sleep at night worrying if I can do this. I want it so badly that I would actually consider moving out of state to attend school elsewhere. It would put a ton of stress on my family and presents challenges of it's own but I will have to cross that bridge when I get there.
All this is just so overwhelming and I can see why so many people would give up. I won't give up though and am trying to stay focused on only one step at a time. Anatomy is 6 credits and will be the only class I am taking this quarter that way it can have my full attention. I am very excited but equally apprehensive for anatomy. It's going to be an exciting class and if there is one thing I am good at, it's memorization so hopefully I will do just fine!
