Anyone not get in their first cycle but eventually become a CRNA?
I just found out today that I wasn’t selected for an in-person interview at the only CRNA program I applied to. I’m mostly just looking for a little reassurance because I’m feeling pretty devastated right now.
I only applied to one school because it’s the only program in my city, and due to family/my significant other, relocating isn’t an option for me. I know that significantly lowers my chances, but it’s the only path I have.
A little background: I’ve wanted to attend this program since before I even started nursing school. Since graduating, I’ve tried to be really intentional about building my experience and becoming the strongest applicant I could. I genuinely felt like I had put together a solid application and had done everything I could over the last few years to give myself the best shot.
I made it through the KIRA assessment, but today I found out I wasn’t selected to move on to the in-person interview.
I know plenty of qualified applicants don’t get in on their first try, but it’s hard not to take it personally. I had this whole timeline in my head of starting school next year, and now I feel like I’m a year behind everyone else. Looking back, I almost feel naïve for assuming everything would work out on my first application.
I guess I’m just looking for reassurance from people who’ve been in my shoes. If you didn’t get in your first cycle but eventually became a CRNA, I’d really love to hear your story. Right now it feels like I somehow failed, and I’m trying to remind myself that maybe this is just a normal part of the process. I know only applying to one program significantly lowers my chances, but I can’t help wondering if I just wasn’t good enough.
If anyone has been rejected before eventually getting accepted, I’d really appreciate hearing how things worked out for you. I could just use a little hope today.