Good morning and happy Wednesday, everyone! I've been actively reading the forums since yesterday and am quite impressed with the information available thus far, and am only left with a few questions.
Background on me: I had finished almost all of my pre-reqs for nursing school in WA state, but moved here to FL (military PCS) before being able to take micro, applied to FSCJ only to find out that many of my credits didn't transfer due to me going from quarter to semester-based programs. My A&P classes transferred with 3.9 credits, 1/10 shy and I was told I would have to retake them (no option to challenge). My math classes also didn't transfer due to me opting to take the nursing-specific classes in WA and FSCJ did not have an equivalent - they would only be accepted as elective courses, not math. Basically, I would have had to start over. I would have to retake many of these classes even for EMT.
I see that there is a lot of negativity towards the technical schools and career colleges. Are there any that are good? Upon looking at the FL dept. of health website, there are three here in NW Fl that are recommended (Keiser, FMTI, FCTC). Many people commented on the lack of classes such as A&P and basic general ed, but what if I have already taken those classes at a CC in the past? The hours and the schedule for the technical college works best for me at the time (three children and hubby is military with crazy hours). Are the new-hires from the technical colleges always incompetent, or is it one of those, "you get out of it what you WANT to get out of it" programs - Meaning that if you WANT to learn, can the technical program still be beneficial?
I've been looking more seriously at FCTC, as their set-up seems a little more professional and up-front.
Another question (bless you for reading this far), being military, we move a lot. I can't seem to make sense of the registry. It is my understanding that if I am nationally registered, even though there are a few states that will require me to retake classes (all of them or just a refresher course), many will accept the certification and at the most require a skills test/written test and/or a fee. Am I correct? Is there are site that lists which states require what, or will I need to go to each states .gov site individually? I'm wondering if it would be better to just wait until after we move (7-8 mo) to start taking classes.
Thank you in advance for your help and advice.
Stacy