Galen Health Institute

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JCsMom

Joined 3 years ago

LVN Program 2010. So far so good. The quarter has just begun but I have been impressed so far with the Galen Nursing school in San Antonio. My son is a recently seperated Army Combat Medic who will be using his hard earned GI Bill funds to pay for Galen's LVN and then onto the RN program he hopes.

As with previous posters I agree that the cost is high, however this is the case with any private school education, which is exactly what this is. Those who are "surprised" that grants or other financial aide doesn't fully cover all their costs haven't looked into things for long in my opinion. Grants usually DON'T cover private school education. And fees, books, uniforms, etc. are often extra costs regardless of public or private school affiliations.

Also, the idea that a college is somehow this warm hearted entity just out to help you succeed is wishful thinking. Of course they want you to succeed...when you do it makes them look all that much better...but ALL schools of higher education (state universities, community colleges or private programs) are a BUSINESS. People in the office are there to make the machine work. Hopefully for us they do their job well and make things clear and as easy as possible. Galen does this I think in the clarity of their application and enrollement process, financial aide meeting, pre-planned course schedule where you are auto enrolled (no need to scramble to grab classes in time), and faculty resumes look more than adequate and often impressive.

The idea that a college, any college, offering a challengeing program (like nursing) that is accelerated making exceptions for every students personal issues on a daily basis isn't realistic. While it hurts when its you, it is good to know what the rules are up front so you can work with in them. Even in University programs I have attended you have some hard and fast requirements that if not met mean you will have some rework and rescheduling to do for the future. It sucks but is not unique to Galen by any means.

Lets face it. These programs are not for everyone. If you have small children, need to work while attending, other family demands, it is going to impact your schooling regardless of the institution. You can't afford to get behind when you are in a pre-scheduled program like Galen's. If you can't meet that then you should definitely look into the Alamo Colleges SAC program instead.

I know some former grads of Galen. They, without fail, say it is 1) challenging, 2) expensive (time and $) and 3) worth it.

Any university or college program will only be as good as you and what you are willing to put into it and take from it. And anyone out there debating about student loans -- in my experience -- if you are fully committed and know you will not quit then taking out minimal student loans should be seen as an investment in yourself. Do it, get educated, and get working. Many employers offer loan repayment plans as well.