I plan on going to a community college for nursing. Will I have to take any college classes before hand? Also, when do I take my TEAS test? After applying, while I'm in college, or before I apply?

I'm excited you want to take the Associates Degree route to nursing. That's how I became a nurse!

Visiting with school counselors was the most helpful to me. I found out I could take many program classes at the community college before actually entering the program. This was really helpful because the nursing program at my school was full and there was a waiting list to get in. The counselor gave me a list of classes to take while I waited to take the exam and enter the program. I was able to get into the exam quickly, I passed and then waited. While I waited I took biology, chemistry, anatomy, Math, English, a physical education elective I needed, lots of classes!

By the time I entered the actual nursing program, many of my non-nursing classes were taken care of. I could concentrate on my clinical experience and nursing classes. It was great!

So talk to school counselors. They can be very helpful and take your individual circumstances into account for your education plan. Thank you notes are really a must. Best of luck to you and be well!

Hi,
I also began as a community college nurse. I recommend that you make an appointment with your high school guidance counselor as well as the community college counselor.
At the high school level, you want to focus on chemistry, biology and math.
The college counselor will tell you if that college recommends doing the "2 year program" in actually 2, 2.5 or 3 years. Rarely do people graduate with their ADN after just two years as the course load is heavy and nowadays, most people need to work or have other commitments while attending school.
If you are able, during your senior high school year, begin classes at the community college. I went to high school part time and also took college English, Psychology, Sociology, and Phys Ed during my high school senior year. That allowed me to step right into the nursing program as soon as I graduated from high school.

Best of luck on your future career! I absolutely love mine!!