I just accepted a full time Certified Phlebotomy Technician / Lab Assistant II position at Sutter Health. I start May 18 and it’s 40 hours a week.
I’m also applying to ABSN programs (Samuel Merritt mainly) and trying to figure out the smartest move.
I’m stuck between two options:
Option 1:
Go all in now
- Work full time as a phleb
- Try to complete prereqs (nutrition, patho, pharm)
- Start ABSN ASAP if accepted
Option 2:
Delay a year
- Just focus on working at Sutter
- Save money + get experience
- Apply stronger next cycle
Main things I’m wondering:
- Does Sutter Health actually help pay for nursing school (tuition reimbursement, etc)?
- How flexible are they if you get into an ABSN? Can you go per diem or part time?
- Are managers usually supportive if you leave for school after a few months?
- Is working full time while finishing prereqs realistic, or am I setting myself up to burn out?
- If you were in my position, would you push for ABSN ASAP or build experience first?
u/EmeraldAssassin963 — 1 month ago