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There are a number of ways to fund nursing school. You can take out federal and private loans and may qualify for grants and scholarships.

Scholarships

Scholarships are grants and do not have to be repaid. Some nursing programs award scholarships to students who meet certain (high) academic criteria. You can research to find the best scholarships to meet your needs with this tool to quickly identify options.

Grants

To be an effective mentor to a student nurse, focus on building a trusting relationship, providing clear guidance on clinical practice, offering constructive feedback, actively listening to their concerns, demonstrating empathy, and encouraging their learning by creating opportunities for them to practice skills while always prioritizing patient safety and upholding ethical standards; essentially, act as a supportive guide who shares their knowledge and experience to help the student navigate their nursing journey.

Key aspects of being a good mentor to a student nurse:

1. Graduate High School or Earn a GED

This is mandatory, no matter what kind school you are planning on applying to.

Nursing schools may have a minimum grade point average (GPA) requirement, which can vary between programs. Most CNA programs don’t have minimum GPA requirements. However, you can expect them from LPN and RN programs.

2. Meet the prerequisites

For Most Nursing Schools:

Nurses make a difference in the life of their patients every day. But as a nurse, you can also have a large impact on other nurses too. Being a mentor is an opportunity to help guide and support a new nurse. Whether you work as a traveler or a have a permanent position, being a mentor can be a fulfilling part of your job. Mentoring a new nurse allows you the opportunity to help them build their skills and confidence.

In a recent survey by McKinsey & Company, 32% of nurses said they might soon leave their current direct patient-care position. With this many nurses potentially exiting from their jobs, experienced nurses must pass on their knowledge and skills to other nurses who will replace them. So now more than ever, the nursing profession needs nurse mentors. Regardless of whether you're a CNA, LPN, or RN, you have valuable experience and can make a big contribution in helping new nurses.