[Polldoll]

Who would of thought that accepting my place and preparing to move to Aberdeen could throw up so many problems.
Several things have happened recently which have really tested my commitment to Aberdeen.
They make me wonder if it is fate testing me, or signs suggesting that I shouldn't be going.

Firstly the bank loan that I had been told was the best option turned out not to be suitable. This left me with the question of how to find my fees. Once I had done more research however, and got advice from people here, I discovered the professional loans from Natwest, and have an appointment to apply for this. Problem solved you would think.. well there is still an option that my application may be rejected as I am not in 2nd year. Although the lady from the bank said my status as a mature student means it very likely that they may grant me the money from first year.

Secondly I accidently ticked the wrong box when I was applying for my student loan, so rather than £4500 they awarded me £590!! Simple mistake easily corrected, phew! However when I was on the phone to SAAS they changed their story regarding my fees. Initially I was to pay £1255 per year as SAAS would pay the difference, but they said on the phone that since I was going straight from nursing to medicine with no break that would not be the case. I now have to pay almost £3000 per year. Obviously this impacts on my overall debt from doing this degree. Including my current debt from previous degrees I will owe £40000 on graduation.

This is a very scary figure and in the current climate a huge commitment. I am hoping that it will be managable to pay back, but all the uncertainty about ST jobs etc really doesnt help. What if I take out these loans, make it through med school and FY1 and 2 then get no further. Im then left with all this debt and no way to pay it back. It definately wouldnt be worth it in that case.

Oh and the third thing that happened recently, a nuring job was advertised in the ITU unit that Iv just finished 8 weeks in. I loved my placement there, the staff and the patients, and was encouraged by the staff to consider applying for a job there. Is it a sign that I should just give up on medicine, avoid the debt and take a job in ITU?

It feels like there has just been so much thrown at me that I cant think straight. My friends and family have all been so supportive but no one can make this decision for me. So I have decided if my loan application is accepted I will go to Aberdeen, if not, then I will stick to nursing for just now.

Will keep you posted!
Px