Accelerated Nursing Programs in Virginia: How Can I Apply?

If you’re interested in becoming a nurse, you probably have a lot of questions about how to pick a nursing program in Virginia, and how to prepare your application. The good news is that there are lots of great accredited nursing degree programs available in Virginia. But before you apply, you have to know how to--nursing school applications are a bit different than traditional university applications.

Let’s go over some of the ins and outs of nursing applications to help you put together your best application for your future life of nursing.

What Do You Need to Apply to a Nursing Program?

Nursing program application materials vary by program. Always be sure to read instructions carefully and double check your application because sending it in. Common application materials include:

• Formal application, filled out
• Grades from high school and/or previous college
• Personal essay
• Résumé
• Letters of recommendation
• Test scores (SATs, TEAS, etc.)

When it comes to compiling your materials it might take some time, but the last thing you want to do is to pay an application fee and be rejected for an incomplete application. 

How do I Write a Personal Essay for Nursing School?

The art of writing a personal essay has led to lots of thoughts, debates, and anthologies. But when it really comes down to it, no one is going to expect you to take a class on how to write a personal essay, just to apply to college. Here are some quick tips for how to make your essay stand out.

• Read the instructions carefully and follow all directions. There’s no point in churning out a 3,000 word opus when they want a 500 word statement.
• Create an outline on the topic before beginning. Writing down thoughts first can help you to decide what to keep, what to leave out, and what order to arrange it all. 
• Stay on topic. You usually don’t have that many words to express yourself and you don’t want to waste any. Refer back to your outline--it can help you stay on topic. 
• Be sincere and thoughtful about your topic. Why do you want to be a nurse? How do you think you will overcome challenges?
• Keep the tone heartfelt while still being professional. You want to come across as a person in your writing, not a robot.
• Proofread, Proofread, Proofread. Spellcheck is a given, but it can't catch everything. Take a break from your essay, then come back and read it again. Take a longer break, then read it out loud to yourself. Check it against your outline to be sure everything matches up, and that what you've written conveys your message clearly. 

It’s a good idea to have a friend or family member look over your essay before you submit it. Ask them if it sounds like you, if it sounds professional, if it makes you sound like a future nurse, and if they would be interested in looking over the rest of your application materials after reading it.

Will I be Required to do an Interview for Nursing School?

That depends on the program, but many nursing programs like to meet students before allowing them admittance into the school. It’s important for nursing schools to not waste resources on students who aren’t a good fit and they have to be able to make sure someone will succeed under the demands of the program.

Here are some basic tips for a great nursing school (or job!) interview:

• Look the Part: Dress professionally and light, then add a nice blazer to be comfortable in any temperature. Some interview rooms are chilly while others are downright humid. If you're comfortable, you'll be able to focus on the discussion.
• Hydrate or Caffeinate: Bring a coffee, tea, or water bottle with you. If you need an extra moment to think over your response to a question, take a sip. 
• Smile! Be personable, even if you’re nervous. It's ok to admit this (especially if you make a mistake--or knock over your beverage). It only demonstrates how much you care, and want to make a good impression. 
• Be Studious: Bring a notepad. If you don’t know the answer to a question, admit it and jot it down. It's part of why you're interviewing to enroll as a student! Your preparedness and enthusiasm speak to your eagerness to learn. 
• Walk the Walk: Be sincere, don’t just tell the interviewers what you think they want to hear. If asked to describe a weakness, also explain any steps your taking to make it a strength. Honesty, reliability, and accountability speak more to your likelihood of completing a degree program. 
• Prove It: Present yourself in a good light, without bragging or exaggerating. To keep yourself grounded, think of a few real-life examples that prove your capabilities. Whether in school or at work, was there an occasion where you worked well in a team, solved a problem, mediated a conflict, or stepped up and took charge of a project? Write these examples down in your notebook so you'll be ready when asked. 
• Fire Back: Address any concerns you have about the program or the school. Remember that you are not only being interviewed by the school, but also that you are interviewing the school to see if it’s the right fit for you. Write down questions beforehand; they can be tricky to recall on the spot. 

Not the Right Fit? Don't Burn Any Bridges!

If the admissions representative discusses requirements your schedule can’t meet, or a teaching philosophy you don’t agree with, it’s possible the school might not be the best option for you. Regardless, always end an interview with a smile, a firm handshake, and a friendly "thank you for your time." Whether you enroll there or not, nurses are a community, and you may find yourself working alongside today's interviewer, tomorrow.

The Perfect Fit: I Want to Enroll in Nursing School Today! 

If the interview went well and you're interested in the school, snail-mail a handwritten thank you note--it's old school, but it's classic for a reason. It works! Not only is it a thoughtful gesture, it demonstrates follow through. Pro Tip: Buy the card beforehand, fill it out after the interview, then drop it with the front desk before you leave. 

Are you interested in pursuing an accelerated nursing degree? If you want to earn a Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing, consider ECPI University for your education. For more information, connect with a helpful admissions counselor.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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