Wednesday, August 29, 2018

Lauren's College Experience

Lauren Swanson Duggar college

"I think [college] was really good for me. It's something I can look at and say, and tell my kids, 'Hey look what I did.'"
-Lauren (Swanson) Duggar

You're not going to want to miss this web exclusive video. During his time in Lauren's hometown of Milledgeville, Georgia, Josiah is treated to a tour of the college that Lauren and her sister Lilly attended.

Through a dual enrollment program, they both earned an associate degree--Lauren in nursing and Lilly in early childhood education--by the time they graduated high school. Lilly is planning to further her education with a bachelor's in teaching and a master's in speech pathology, while Lauren says she is done with school.


Photo/video courtesy TLC

258 comments:

  1. Why couldn't they have explained this before? Like when the girls were eating dinner together in the restaurant and talking about her education. I guess showing the wedding was more important.

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  2. Good for them! It's refreshing to hear that Lauren and her sister were encouraged to pursue college courses. My son earned tuition-free college credits while still in high school as well. Those credits transferred to the universtity and it saved a great deal of money. We were so proud when he earned his degree and found a good-paying job! It's simply practical for young women, along with the guys, to keep their options open and get the needed education/training for employment. You can't always rely on a husband to support you.

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    1. Lauren said she's "done with school". So I think she's more interested in having babies than working. However, since she has the nursing degree she does have enough education to get a decent job if Josiah is unable to work for some reason (illness, accident, tetc.)

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    2. It sounds like Lauren has already decided to allow her husband to support her and not pursue a career using her diploma.

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    3. My son earned college credits also while still in high school. We only had to pay for the books. But the fact that Lauren and Lilly earned associates degrees is really cool. I wish our local college would have offered that instead of transferrable college credits. I wish more colleges would partner with their local high school to offer such degrees.

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    4. Lilly has career goals. Good for her. ❤

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    5. You shouldn't always rely on a husband. What if he dies? What if he doesn't make enough?
      And, anyway, having upir independence is fundamental: you have your own money and you don't have to ask your husband for money for your necessities, as when you're still a kid and you ask your parents.

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    6. Finally a candid moment from the Duggar clan! Not everyone is cut out for college but those who are should be given the opportunity to further their education. They need to spread their wings and experience new challenges.

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    7. We do not know if Lauren has a source of income or not. If one of the boys said that college wasn’t for them and that they were not going to pursue a further degree, you wouldn’t automatically assume they are going to live off of their wife.

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    8. 5:26, that’s why she’s has a degree, it’s like a fall back plan in case something we’re to happen, and when her kids are older she could put it to use then. Also most money is on a card nowadays, it’s not like she has to go to him asking for cash like a kid asking their parents for money🙄

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    9. 5:26 I stay home and homeschool my children. I have never once asked my husband for money. His paycheck goes into our joint account. I pay the bills, and then we both purchase what we need to out of the account. We have life insurance if something happens to him and a savings account. My husband wants me to be home, and I enjoy homeschooling. You shouldn’t marry anyone who is not willing to combine lives (and bank accounts) with you.

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    10. Lauren down not have a "nursing" degree.

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    11. Motherhood IS a career. People brush that off as if it means nothing. All mothers should stay home and raise their own children.

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    12. Anonymous 5:26, my mother was a stay at home mom, she never had to ask for money. They had a joint account and she was free to access what she needed. Large expenditures were always discussed. My father never treated her any way but equal. Men who would make their wife ask for money or give them an allowance are very controlling and border on financial abuse.

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    13. If all mothers stayed home and raised their children, what would happen to half our workforce? And why can't FATHERS stay home and raise their children instead?

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    14. @6:40

      In today's economy, it is often necessary for both parents to work. Also, let women and mothers decide for themselves if they want to stay home or work. It's not your call.

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    15. An associated in nursing is an LPN. Because of the whole RN (Real Nurse - not joking this was the campaign), if she doesnt get experience, she may not be able to get a job. I dont know how Arkansas is, but NY requires LPNs have a certain number of years to work in any hospital or government funded program/facility.

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    16. 1:47- Being a SAHM and homeschooling are temporary jobs. Kids grow up and leave home.

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    17. anon@6:40- Staying home with your children may be right for YOU. However, I firmly believe there are circumstances that can befall any family where this isn't possible. No woman should be made to feel guilty for the choices they make, whether it be a SAHM, or work outside the home.

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    18. As a qualified nurse with a bachelor of science degree, & a masters in midwifery can you please explain to an ignorant English lady how in earth someone at 18 can have gained a nursing degree. In the U.K. You have to be 18 to start this degree which takes 3 years, longer if you want to do masters & doctoral degrees. I find it fascinating that you say she has a nursing degree & I would be very interested to know how you can gain this at such a young age, did she start at 15 ? Or is it not an actual nursing degree. Please anyone that can help I'm extremely interested to learn the answer & feel it a great shame that Lauren is now not going to Persu a nursing career as it seems a wasted opportunity.

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    19. I don't think Lauren has a degree, though. If I gather that right (I'm not from the US so we have a different system) an associate is a starting point, but it's not even a bachelor. It sounds like an introduction course, not a proper degree. So I don't know what its actual worth on the market is...
      Motherhood (and fatherhood as well), is an amazing thing and it's hardwork. But it's not alternative to having a job and being an independent adult.

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    20. Lauren probably does have a job. No one said that she didn't. What's the point of getting a degree if she wasn't gonna work. Jana and Jill are doulas/ midwives. Lauren is a grown woman and Josiah doesn't need to tell her what she can and cannot do. That is not a marriage. The Bible also doesn't forbid women from working.

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    21. I was always taught that a man is not a financial plan and that I should pursue education/career so I could be self sufficient. I was also taught that marriage is a joint endeavor and one partner should not have more "power/control" over the other partner. I realize that not all women want to pursue a career and not all women want to stay at home and home school, but each partner should feel fulfilled and supported by the other.

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    22. 8:35, In the US, in many states you can get your RN and practice nursing in a hospital after an intense two year degree and some hospital training. After that, you are encouraged to get your bachelorette in nursing, but some do not choose to. WhereWh you have a two year degree, or a four year, you still have your RN, and depending on the area, the pay difference isn't even *that* significant. Other states are more strict and allow nurses to begin working with a two year degree as long as they get their four year degree within a certain amount of time. Laws vary by state, but in general, most states allow nurses with a two year degree to practice, no questions asked.

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    23. I agree that women should stay home and raise their children and not allow babysitters to raise their child. If the husband is deceased or disabled those should be the only 2 exceptions.

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    24. Fuzzyferet, as far as I know, in the US you can get a two-year Associates RN degree. At least, you used to be able to, and I am assuming it is still the same. It is not as comprehensive as a four-year Bachelor's degree, which would include all the general education subjects, but is rather targeted to nursing only. The system is a bit different to the British system, and I believe the last two years of British high school (6th Form) could be equivalent to the first two years of college here in the US, as far as general education courses and degrees go. Here, at a community college, you can get either a general education degree after two years, with which you can go on to a four-year institution to complete the last two years of a Bachelor's, or a specialized degree, such as the two-year RN degree. As for how she got it so young.... from what I understand, homeschooling is ahead of regular schooling, and you graduate at 16, instead of 18, as you would in regular schools. (I know in the UK, you can graduate at 16 if you skip 6th Form - if it is still the same as it was.) Thus, she would have been able to complete a two-year Associates degree at 18. Hope this is helpful, and greetings to you in jolly old England! :)

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    25. First off, you CAN become an RN with an associate's degree. I know multiple people who have done this.

      Second, my take away from what Lauren said is that she completed her program but didn't pursue her actual nursing license. I'm not sure what the rules are in Arkansas. Where I live, there's a pre-nursing that takes about a year. Then a test to be admitted to the RN program. Maybe Lauren did the pre-nursing but not an actual RN or LPN program?

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    26. I have a friend who has 3 young kids and going back to school for medical. It's hard because the program is during after school hours and she needs sitters 3 days a week for late pm. Being a stay at home mom, I'm able to help her so she can advance in her career. The bummer part is she hardly gets to spend any quality time with the kids. I don't understand why she chose now to go back but if it weren't for some stay at home mama's, she w ouldnt be able to do this

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  3. This video was awesome! I wish the Duggars would encourage their children to do the same.

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    1. Since when is it the parents job to choose if their adult children go to college? Once you turn 18 you can leave home and get a job and go to college if you want to and your parents can’t stop you. My sister moved out at 18 got a job an apartment and went to school with no help financially from my parents. Neither of my parents had degrees or the financial ability to get one. The idea that college should be available to everyone needs to be taken up with the government, not the parents. The Duggars have said they encourage their children to gain life skills and seek education that they need or desire for their future careers. I think that’s wonderful. Because I have a sibling who CHOSE not to go to college, he doesn’t want to work to support himself, has no life skills and he was ENCOURAGED TO GO to college. On the contrary the Duggars appear to be very hard workers. That is definitely more important in my opinion.

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    2. Anonymous 11:50, there will always be the ones who don’t make it. You can suggest, recommend and encourage to no avail. Yes anyone can leave home and go to college, even if you live independent of your parents their income affects your ability to obtain financial aid till age 24. The truly driven will find a way to have what they want in life.

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    3. The duggar parents are NOT responsible for what their adult kids choose to do. If they dont go to college it is up to them. Not every person goes to college. Get a grip people.

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  4. Good for Lauren! Will she be using her degree? Has she worked as a Nurse?

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    1. Obviously she hasn’t worked as a nurse yet, she’s only 19, and from what they’ve said it sounds like she wants to be a stay at home mom (which is totally fine) I’m happy she got a degree though that she can use in the future if she ever needs/wants to.

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    2. She is not a nurse. She simply got an AS is nursing. That does not make someone a nurse.

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    3. No and no , OP.

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    4. At the end of the clip, Lauren said "that she no longer, wants to be a nurse." Thus, my guess would be, that she will not be using her degree.

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  5. While I think its fantastic that Lauren has an associates degree will she ever use it? I am a nurse with a degree in nursing sciences, nursing is the sort of career where you need to be constantly working to keep your skills up to date, and need to up with all the latest changes in treatments and best evidence based practice. If Lauren stays at home for say ten years raising a family it would be very difficult to get back in to, not impossible but difficult, she would effectively need to go back to school, pass exams and get her registration back. It would be refreshing to see one of these young women work after getting married, I really hope Abbie continues her career at least until children come along, and even part time after if she wants to, otherwise the degree and training are a waste of time and money imo.

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    1. She stated that she's no longer interested in nursing.

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    2. Is it really a waste of time and money? She can use what she learned in nursing to help her family and Josiah’s family members. Learning has never hurt anyone. Plus as you mentioned if she decides to go back to college later in life, she already had some basic knowledge that will help her.

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    3. I'm also a RN, and rest assured, she can find a job if she wants it! If course you have to keep up your education hours in order to keep your license, but that can be done through so many different ways.

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    4. @Anonymous 4:01-Lauren is not an RN.

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    5. OP here, sorry I am in the UK and here if you allow your reegistration to lapse you need to complete a 'return to practice course', usually through a university. This involves time spent on placement in a hospital, time in classes at Uni and coursework to be completed and passed, only then can you apply for your registration to be restored. I didn't realise it was so easy to go back to nursing in the US if you hadn't practiced in a long time or never at all. Also I couldn't watch the video, its a shame Lauren decided not to continue on a become a nurse, but none of these young ladies seem to want to do anything other than have babies after they are married, being a mother is wonderful, but so is being able to provide for your family if the need arises!

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    6. Lauren did not study Nursing- the school she went to does not award Nursing degrees, only pre-nursing. Most people who earn an associates in Nursing take more than 2 years because the clinicals, etc take so much time. Still, at least she went to a school and earned a degree, which can only benefit her no matter what she does in her life.

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    7. Education is never a waste of time or money. Education expands your mind. Lauren said she does not want to complete the nursing training. However, she learned about deadlines and getting along with all kinds of people and how to interact with a large group. Good for her! I'm sure she also learned all kinds of wonderful knowledge and skills that will make her a confident mother and wife, instead of those people who are terrified over every scratch and scrape.

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  6. Congratulations to Lilly. I hope she pursues all her educational dreams and actually uses it.

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  7. Now can I smile at all the naysayers who complained that Lauren isn't mature and how all the women in the Duggar circles aren't allowed to further their education??

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    1. Lauren earned her degree as a Swanson not a Duggar. It shows that Lauren's parents see the value in quality education and provided them with opportunities to pursue their academic goals. It doesn't have much to do with the Duggars and their views on education other than the Duggar sons pursued educated women. Anna also has a certificate in early education.
      Maybe Jim Bob and Michelle will follow the Swansons' lead and look into similar educational programs within the area for the younger kids.

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    2. I agree, many of the families the Duggars associate with allow their daughters to further their education. The Bates family is a good example. It's a shame Jim Bob and Michelle haven't provided their daughters (and sons) with the same opportunities, especially, with the University of Arkansas and John Brown University as local options.

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    3. The duggars have never said their kids were not allowed to go to college. Some people just like to make duggars look bad for some sad reason.

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  8. The Swanson's let their children go to public schools? I'm shocked.

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    1. Why? The Swanson’s are also fine with dating

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    2. They went in a pair, for some classes. Not exactly living on campus next to a frat house.

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    3. Frat houses get you in trouble 4:45

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  9. Good for those young women. I'm glad they completed courses. Good luck to them in their lives. God bless.

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  10. College is not for everyone. Too many people judging the duggars for not going to college. It is an individual's choice and for those choosing not to go whether male or female, they should not be looked down on. So many un christian like judgments on these blogs.

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    1. I don't think it's looking down on someone for not having a degree, but rather puzzlement as to why NONE of the Duggars have gone to college or left home before marriage. It's a pattern and one wonders if this is really individual choices or are there expectations that they all follow the same path. Are they discouraged from seeking any kind of independence?

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    2. I don’t think it’s the children’s choice to attend college but the parents who discourage it. Too afraid of the “” secular” world I guess!! I’d like to see someone in the Bates or Duggar families go into the military. That would be a miracle!!

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    3. It’s not so much judgement as perhaps shock that NONE have pursued higher education. All walks/ vocation choices are valid, but they never address or at minimum discuss options.
      Someone above said it perfect this was a candid moment. It’s also none of the direct (by birth) Duggar children, only their spouses. It appears in the few candid times we can glean they have. A few choices....Real Estate, Landscaper, and/ or construction (all valid not a naysayer) but what happen to all of their aspirations? Didn’t some one want to be a lawyer (Josh I think) Jill a nurse?
      Not everything requires a college degree as well, but certifications or training ( i.e welding, baking, forklift, lab technician, cosmetology )

      Good luck to them 🙂

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    4. They should break their own model!

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    5. @Anonymous @4:48: Totally agree. The Duggars take care of their families, doing very well in various endeavors. College is over-rated unless it's for specific career goals, like Lilly's.

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    6. College is over-rated.

      I dont think everyone who goes should go, but I think it's part of that whole milestone requirements wr put on people: graduate high school, go to college, get married, have kids, etc.

      We do need more skilled workers that dont require college. BUT having a college degree isnt bad. I have a B.S. in a different subject than my career. Yet the reason I got the job was that degree. Also, you cant be a doctor, pharmacist, nurse, accountant, investigator, forensic work, priest, counselor, lawyer, judge, etc.

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    7. @anonymous 8:27-"College is over-rated"! I be to differ! A college degree not only demonstrates your knowledge; but provides many life experiences and connections you do not receive with out it. It is extremely valuable to our young people. Education is power.

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  11. So great that Lauren's sister is planning on getting a masters degree! getting mine was one of the best decisions of my life. I was lucky to do abroad, and i got to experience a new culture, make amazing friends for life, live alone, travel a lot as i was in Europe (Switzerland), and my masters allowed me to obtain amazing job opportunities. I recommend the experience to everyone! knowledge is power!

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    1. I agree! I have a masters in TESOL and I have learned SO much about other cultures that I could never put it in adequate words. I haven’t traveled to many other countries, but I feel better prepared to do so!

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  12. I come from a family of four women. We are all currently single and none of us have college degrees and are gloriously happy in the Lord. A college education does not define you.

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    1. I’m not being rude, but curious, what do you do?

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    2. It may not "define you" but it sure helps to support you!

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    3. What do four grown women do all day? Do you live independently of your parents? Do you work outside the home? My parents would never have let their single children live at home without working or going to school, no matter how happy we were.

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    4. I never stated that we lived with parents. We all have our own homes. People have freedom of choice. It is possible to enjoy your job without a degree.

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  13. My son is duel enrolled as well so he will graduate with an associates. I think this is a wonderful thing! I’m glad Lauren had the option of taking college courses. I wonder why she has chosen to stop Persueing an education that can lead to a great nursing career? Granted college isn’t for everyone. Maybe she will find her nitch though. I think it’s important that women learn how to be self sufficient and be able to stand on their own in life (educated, steady job to support self, life skills such as car maintenance, cooking, etc). I do hope Lauren has decided on her own to stop Persuing higher education and or a career as opposed to being influenced by marriage.....

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    1. Lauren said she doesn't like school very much and that's why she's done. She earned her associate's degree and can tell her children that she went to college.

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  14. Good for Lauren and her sister! It's wonderful that the Swanson family values education and her parents are giving their children the opportunity to pursue college degrees. I know Ben also has an AA. Ellie do you know if he went through a similar dual program in his hometown?
    I wish this video was part of the televised show. I've enjoyed learning more about Lauren and her interests and personality. She seems so self-assured.

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  15. That is refreshing and awsome!!

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  16. Time 8:25PM Wed 8/29/18
    Good on you Lauren nobody is ever to old or young to follow their dreams.

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    1. Neddy very nice spoken words of encouragement.

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    2. Well said Neddie! You are a wise young woman.

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    3. Hey Neddy, nice to hear from you. You were quiet for a bit, glad you’re back.

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  17. That is wonderful that Lauren got an associates in nursing, but is she going to take her boards or ever use her degree?????

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    1. It didn’t sound like she wanted to pursue being a nurse anymore. Not because she met Josiah but because she just didn’t like the field.

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    2. Hey it's ok to change your mind. She went and probably didn't care for the crazy lifestyle of college. I sure didn't and couldn't wait to leave..

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  18. Well done Lauren and Lily ! That can't have been easy ! I wish Lauren decided to pursue her studies further, though, as I doubt her degree will be of any use if she ever needs or wants to get a job outside of her family/husband's family... Now I am wondering whether this "dual enrollment program" is what any of the Duggar kids did. For example, Jinger is supposed to have studied music, if I am not mistaken ?

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    1. my 3 children have done the dual enrollment but were not homeschooled. They go to a regular high school and got a combination of classes to earn a 60 hour associates degree while in high school. Mine have done a combination of classes at their local high school, online and at the college. Its a rigorous program because you are earning your high school degree at the same time. Out of daughter's graduating class of 425, only 5 earned this degree.

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    2. Only a little more than half of nurses in the nation have a BSN. You can absolutely get a job with the degree Lauren has. Wonderful job to her and her family!

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    3. Don't diss something you don't know about! She absolutely can use her ADN. Many of the classes that take you from a ADN to a BSN are classes such as "Nursing History and Trends" and "Nursing Finance," which, if you're a beside nurse, aren't necessarily going to significantly improve your ability to care for patients like hands-on experience will.

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  19. What exactly is this online “bible college” that Joy says she and other family members are involved with? An accreditated online college?

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    1. Most colleges private and public offer online classes and degrees as well as in person.

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    2. My husband went to an accredited college for Theology and got his degree there. He doesn't think much of on line classes

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  20. Doesn’t sound like Lauren really enjoyed her time at college. Glad her sister is taking her education a bit more seriously

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    1. Just because it wasn’t a good fit for her doesn’t mean she didn’t take it seriously.

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  21. Pre-nursing, not nursing

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    1. In a lot of states, and depending on the college and exact degree plan, an associates in nursing can qualify you to take the RN licensing test. A bachelors degree is not required to be an RN, although a lot of hospitals prefer it. My local community college offers a 2 year (associates) RN program and a one year LVN/LPN program. I know many RNs with associates degrees.

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    2. Exactly! Her two years dual enrollment pretty much gave her high school and probably the pre-requisites required to study nursing. She is not a nurse now, and she does not want to continue her education to become a nurse. She said she does not want to be one.

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    3. That's what I was thinking...you can't get a nursing degree in two years from what I understand. An ADN (associate degree in nursing takes 3 years). So she's must of just done pre-reqs.

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    4. I have my ADN in nursing, and it only takes two years. True, hospitals prefer BSNs, but you can still work at a hospital (depending on the state) with only an ADN.

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    5. The requirements for LPN or RN very by state. I live in Oregon, there are several two year RN programs in my state, however it is an intensive program and many students spend a year doing basic classes such as math, chemistry and anatomy and physiology before beginning the actual nursing program, thereby taking three years to complete the program. This two year program allows you to sit for the board of nursing licensure exam. There is only one school in the state that offers a four year nursing program start to finish, OSU. Many other universities offer a BSN program but you must first have your two year RN program completed to enroll. I believe Lauren was in an LPN program which in my state is a lower level nursing degree that also requires a license. This program is an associate program which takes two years at the community college or one year at a vocational college. An LPN can work in less critical patient care such as a doctors office, clinic or care facility. From what I’ve read Lauren is not a nurse because while she completed the coursework, she did not take the exam to get her license.

      Lauren took college level courses while still in high school. I think this a great idea that allows students to graduate from high school with a working skill. It is not a traditional college experience, ie., you live at home, many of the courses are online. This is a great option for those who attend public school, it is usually not offered to homeschool students due to funding comes from public school. The learning environment in college is different than high school in that you are surrounded by other adults who are attending because they want to. Your interactions are not controlled by your parents....it helps you grow socially and make your own choices with parental influence. I think the Duaggars do what they think is right for their kids, kids aren’t kids forever and the world is not the same as it was thirty years ago when JB and Michelle chose not to go to college. I believe they are limiting their kids options in life...sad.

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    6. Where I live, a nurse with only an AS would never get a job. An LPN is basically the same as a candy striper. They clean the patients and change bedding. An LPN does nothing "nurse like."

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    7. Dual enrollment is available for homeschoolers also in many state. And this makes sense because, you know, parents of homeschoolers pay taxes too!

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  22. Lauren and Lilly are so sweet and kind! As a woman who never had a close knit family, but always desired one, I commend their parents for fostering such a close knit and genuinely kind family.

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  23. These girls are precious! What great examples they are! I would love to see Lily in more episodes.

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  24. Congratulations girls for living your dreams

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  25. Now that Lauren’s married and she was recently graduated, is she going to actually work in the field she studied in it quit work and be a stay at home wife that the Duggars do. Ps I have nothing against stay at home wife/mums but believe you should try and work at least once in your life to exp it. You need the skills..you never know when your husband may not be able to work etc..

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  26. I am delighted to see that Lauren had the chance to get her Associate's degree but it sounds like most of the Duggar's did not have that same opportunity. College seems like such a good path to encourage but it seems the boys all just participate in the family businesses and never veer off that path> I hope they are encouraged to get a college education if they want to.

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    1. Joseph went away to college and got a one year Bible degree. Joy mentioned that several of them have taken online college classes.

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  27. Thats good to hear! Glad Lauren got that experience.

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  28. Sorry, there's something about Lauren; "you have to keep up" to Josiah & her look at her sister, not nice.

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    1. Umm, you're mistaken there. Lauren comes across as very sweet and nice. The "you have to keep up" remark was very mild TEASING.

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  29. I think it's great she and her sister got into that program and were able to experience college. It's too bad Lauren didn't seem to have a very positive experience though, as she didn't wish to continue. But, college isn't for everyone. And it is really sad that an Associate's degree is so frowned on and it won't get you anywhere in this world. I wonder how her sister will pay for all of her higher educations she plans on. Apparently Lauren's family doesn't frown on debt as the Duggars do - that will easily add up to a enormous loan debt.

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    1. If she's proven to do well academically, she can apply for scholarships. She can also work to help pay the bills.

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    2. Did you see their house? I don’t think Lauren’s family is poor. We are sending my son to college and paying for it as he goes. You don’t have to go into debt for college. Take advice from Dave Ramsey and figure out how to do it dent free.

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    3. It's not true that an associate's degree "won't get you anywhere in this world." My sister has an associate's in nursing (R.N.) and she makes more money than I do with a master's degree!!

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    4. At 7:33---I don't believe the girls spoke about college loans; so, how do you know the parents went into debt to send Lauren and Lily to college?

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    5. I beg to differ-nurses with associates degrees absolutely can get you somewhere!! I have my ADN in nursing and was offered jobs by several places including our level 1 trauma center in our area. Getting a BSN is wonderful, but I know at least a couple dozen of the nurses I personally work with who only have their ADN, have no intention of getting their BSN, and are amazing nurses.

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    6. A nurse with only an AS would NEVER get a job where we live.

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    7. @7:24 Here too. ALL nurses must have a 4 year university degree PLUS pass the board exams. No 2 or 3 year diploma nurses.

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    8. Where I live, you need a lot more for nursing degrees. Lots of competition out there.

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    9. All the nurses I know have associates degrees. Many of them work in hospitals. Some worked in hospitals for a few years and then chose other nursing jobs that have better hours for family time.

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  30. College is great but it's not for everyone. I know so many people getting laid off or fired from their jobs after earning the high end degrees... but guess what you will always need?? Firefighters, police officers, plumbers, construction crew. No need for degrees in those

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    Replies
    1. Good post and I agree with you on those vocations. A lot of my relatives also went to trade schools, rather than a university for a degree. You're oftentimes not in school nearly as long with a trade school as you would be with a university, incurring much less student-loan debt, too. And like the vocations you cited, people with trade skills usually have very steady work.

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    2. Those jobs will still require training and licensing to earn decent money.
      Construction work is dependent on the economy.
      Josie Bates's fiance Kelton earned his degree in business and is licensed as a plumber. Higher education can be beneficial if you plan on owning a successful business. Why trust someone else with the financial aspects of the business?
      Also, just like college, being a firefighter and police officer isn't for everyone. Having the right personality, mindset, and moral compass are key for those lines of work.

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    3. Many police officers have at least some college. They take classes in the field of criminal justice. Police departments LIKE to hire officers that have more education.

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    4. Really ? In my country, you do need some sort of diploma for all of these jobs. Not 4-year-university degrees, but you do need some training, especially fro plumbing!

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    5. While you may not need a college degree to be a plumber, firefighter etc, there is still training involved. Not everyone should go to college but having career training is important, even for women who intend to be stay at home mothers. You never know when you will be the sole provider for your family. It’s hard to be gloriously happy in the Lord when you can’t afford a roof over your head or food for you and your children.

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    6. Actually, a lot of the police officer and firefighters where I live have to have degrees. Yes, you can get a degree in fire science. Fighting fires is more than just pointing a hose at the flames. And police officers often have criminal justice degrees.

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    7. The Lord will provide for all of my needs. Period. The bible says nothing about providing only if you go to college first. You can be happy and full of joy without a degree and you can also be happy and poor at the same time. Some of these people really need to read the bible.

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    8. Firefighters, police officers, plumbers, construction crew.. all need post-secondary training here. And some of the training takes longer than 4 years.

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    9. 9:30- You must live in a depressed area. There are four recent (within the past three years) college grads in my family and they are all gainfully employed in their chosen vocations. Anyone thinking of going to college needs to do their research and plan a course of study that has good job prospects.

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    10. You’ll also always need doctors, judges and scientists.

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    11. No need for a degree to become a police officer? Where I am, they need 60 credit hours of college courses from an accredited university, with at least a 2.0 GPA, before they're accepted to train. They're allowed to substitute 2 years of military service for the college.

      For firefighters, it's 15 hours of college credits needed first.

      To get a plumbing license, you need 4000 in training hours (approx. 2 years) to even sit for the exam. You're not allowed to work as a plumber here without passing the exam and getting a license.

      Same system with electricians.

      I don't know where you're going to find that kind of work without at least 2 years of college classes or training.

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    12. 6:34- So, you just sit back and wait for a higher power to provide? I'm sorry, but I'd much rather be in control, at least as much as possible, for my well-being and future. So, I went to college and got the training for a professional career. I didn't wait for God to tell me what to do. I've been married for over 25 years and never expected my husband to be the sole bread-winner. We're a team.

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    13. AnonymousAugust 31, 2018 at 6:34 AM it's a good thing you don't live in my country than. Almost everything requires a degree of some sort. No a college education isn't always required, but training and a certificate specific to the job you want is a must.

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    14. Ok, Op was saying you don't necessarily NEED a college degree for these things. Training yes

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    15. Yes it is a very depressed area where I live :(

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  31. I think it is wonderful that they did this. No wonder the girls seem so mature for their ages. There is something about attending classes vs home schooling. I can see where Lauren was coming from. In a way it is sad that she completed the 2 years out of 4 to become a nurse and did not finish. Perhaps she will change her mind once she is around Abbie. She seems bright. But I also admire her for knowing who she is and pursuing other paths. I wasn't surprised about the favorite subjects, except for Jed -spelling???

    ReplyDelete
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    1. Maybe he’s a spelling genius🤔

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    2. There are thousands of nurses (RNs) around the nation who "only" have a two year nursing degrees and are wonderful nurses. And in some places nurses with a ADN can make nearly as much as nurses with a BSN if they specialize through certifications. Though some hospitals require a BSN, there are many that happily hire nurses with two year degrees.

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    3. @Anonymous @10:20-Translated, language arts. ❤

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  32. I'm in classes at Sc4 in Michigan right now. Its a smaller college with smaller class sizes and that is why I chose it as an opposed to be baker. I plan to transfer from Sc4 and hopefully attend Spring Arbor and get a degree in pastoral ministries. I plan to be a pastor.
    the college experience this second time around as been really interesting and fun.

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    1. It sounds like we are near the same area! SC4 is the local community college where I live in Michigan. A family member of ours graduated from spring arbor a few years ago.

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  33. I see no chemistry whatsoever between Josiah and Lauren. There was no touching or loving looks whatsoever. Body language screams "friends".

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    1. Don't you think it was filmed before they got married or even engaged? So they were not allowed to hold hands and do any other form of touching.

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    2. I got the impression that they were trying SO hard to do everything "right" by Duggar courtship standards and felt little freedom to be comfortable with each other.

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    3. So they're not allowed to brush up against each other when walking side by side?

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  34. Lily definitely has solid goals; good for her!!! I hope she will attain them!
    I felt sort of bad for Lauren; I think she may need a bit more confidence to compete in a college curriculum. I think she would make a beautiful nurse. However, now that she is married to a Duggar it is doubtful she will be given the encouragement from Josiah like she received from her Dad to pursue a bachelors. I do think this college tour peaked Josiahs interested in brick and mortar education and just maybe he'll enroll!

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    1. She IS a nurse. Whether you have your BSN or ADN, you still are an RN.

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    2. I really feel that all those who are "feeling bad" for Lauren or the other Duggar girls, are actually mixing up THEIR wishes/goals with the girls'. Just because you would rather be a nurse, doesn't mean Lauren does. In fact, she stated clearly she'd rather NOT. So unless Lauren admits she's doing something other than what she wants, why would you feel bad for her? I vote to take her words as truth and not question.

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    3. I feel badly for her because she is missing out on am amazing opportunity to improve her self and the lives of others. Its much easier to continue with your education when you are in that mode. The longer you are away from studying, attending classes, etc doing such things becomes more challenging. Lauren may come to realize what a gift she had from her parents when she is older...hopefully if she does change her mind it won't be too late!

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    4. I hope Lauren comes to the realization that studying nursing is different from practicing nursing. I got the impression she did not like school, studying. But once the schooling is finished, I wonder if she might not enjoy being a nurse. Maybe she will change her mind. Maybe she can get some tips from Abbie.

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    5. Pretty sure that being a good wife and mother are strong goals. What could be more important than shaping the next generation?

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    6. Lauren specifically said that she's not a big fan of school which is why she chose not to continue. She has an associate's degree and that's good enough for her. What's there to feel bad about?

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  35. Good for the both of them! And best of luck to Lilly as she continues on-- I work with Speech Language Pathologists and they are so important in the schools.

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  36. I’m happy for Lauren and Lilly that they were able to accomplish so much at such a young age. However, like Lauren, I couldn’t wait to be done with my associates degree and just get married and have kids. That was five years and soon to be four kids ago and I love my life. I work hard as a mom and wife and what I am doing is just as important as those who work outside the home.

    I think it’s great when people get to go to college but not everyone needs or wants to. My husband is 33 and is a very good diesel mechanic as well as farming and he never went to a day of college. So I think people need to stop being so critical and just mind their own business. College is great but only for certain people and at certain times. Let people make heir own choices.

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    1. My husband went to college and his computer degree did not come in handy at all. He does however have school loans still to pay off. He haf good jobs in banking and never went to school for that. He had high positions before he quit and he went into real estate. So college does not guarantee good jobs. Different trade schools or community colleges seem to help better in different professions.
      I have five children and another blessing on the way. I didn't like college and quit. But my calling was being a wife and mommy as well as home schooling. Not everyone needs to go to college.
      I totally agree. We are raising the next generation and that is very important. And stay at home moms work very hard. I hardly rest besides at night.
      And congrats on your soon to be fifth child. They truly are gifts from God.

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    2. 10:02- I find it interesting that your husband's computer degree did not come in handy. Businesses are begging for competent computer techs, softeware engineers, etc. My nephew is making close to six-figures only a few years out of college.

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  37. Out of curiosity, I took the NCLEX-RN practice test that someone with an associate's degree in nursing would have to take in order to be hired. I passed with 85% (you need 50% to pass). I've never had a day's nursing education, yet I can pass the test given to someone with an associate's degree like Lauren's. So what's wrong with that scenario - is the test too easy, or am I too smart?

    I also read that a lot of hospitals won't hire you without the 4-year degree. Rural areas might hire you for some public health position, not in a hospital.

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    Replies
    1. Having taken the online practice NCLEX and the real NCLEX, I can say, it's NOTHING alike. I'm sure you're very smart, but the NCLEX isn't a piece of cake. Not to mention, whether you get your BSN or an associate's degree, it's the same NCLEX. And, actually, even though BSN may be preferred, many hospitals still readily hire nurses with their associates degree, most without question.

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    2. You hear that hospitals don't hire anybody without a four year degree, but that's simply not true. I would say probably 60% of the nurses on my floor only have their ADN. The goal is to have all nurses to have their BSN by 2020, but that's definitely not the case right now.

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    3. Wow, you are spending a lot of time and effort just to find ways to criticize the Duggars. I think you need to look into your heart to find out why you enjoy tearing other people down. There must be bitterness and anger in your heart to want to do this. I feel bad for you.

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    4. My mother has a 2 year RN degree. She's worked at hospital, nursing homes, dialysis clinics, you name it. She's done med surge, ICU, ER, she managed the dialysis clinic... It's quite a commonly held myth that you have to have a 4 year degree to be an RN. My mother has never ever gotten a sideways reaction to her 2 year degree from potential employers, Co-workers, anyone. Some LPNs do get a chip on their shoulder because they wish they'd known about 2year RN programs before they took their 2 year LPN programs to make half the money she does. There are so many "tricks" involving education that ppl don't know about. Clep, anyone? How about that backdoor into Harvard for $40,000? Seems like a lot, but not for Harvard.

      The fact is it may be difficult for a 2 year RN to bag their FIRST job as a nurse, but this is true of anybody with no on the job experience. Once you've got your foot in the door it's no longer mentioned.

      Just a final point, I used to rub shoulders with millionaires at events I was hired to film, very nice people, very frugal people and not a single one I've ever met has spent a day in a college class room. Intelligent does not equal educated. Sometimes they're polar opposites 🙃

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    5. Well a practice test is going to be easier than a real test, so if you’ve ever had any health education (even grade level) it’s not shocking that you’d do decently on it.

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    6. Anonymous @9:37 I have a family member and lots of friends in the nursing field. None of them have 4 year degrees! Like you said, the only trouble they had getting a job was the first one! Some of them had hospital jobs working with nurses while they were in school. My family member was a nurse tech (I'm not exactly sure what that is) then a grad nurse as soon as she finished school and they gave her an RN position as soon as she passed her licensing exam. She still works occasionally at a hospital but has chosen another full time nursing job that works better for her family life right now.

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  38. JD "Day dreaming " 😂😂
    That's totally me!!! Loved it..,

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  39. JD "Day dreaming" ha ha ha😂😂😂😂 that was amazing!!!😂

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  40. The duggars have never been discouraged to go to college. They are FREE people!!! They are not locked in prisons. They all have freedom of choice. Not going to college is NOT a big deal at all. Attending college does not make you a better person.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Since none of the Duggar offspring have showed any interest in attending college, I would disagree with you on that front. Attending college is not supposed to make you a "better person", it's intended to give you the education to get a job in today's labor market.

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    2. You don’t know them, and it isn’t very possible that their parents discouraged them (especially the girls) not to go to college. If you’re raised to think a certain way that’s typically how you’re going to think until you actually leave your home.

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    3. Why can't people understand simple truths? The duggar girls dont want to attend college! So far anyway. They want to have a career as a mother. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that. It used to be the norm. Even if the girls were discouraged from going to college, which they were not, because i know all of them personally, it is still their choice. Their parents have no hold on them as adults. Motherhood is the best career a woman could have

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    4. Some women do not feel the need to get an education for today's labor market. Their labor is at home taking care of their children and their husband and their house. Why is that so hard to comprehend for some of these people? So sad.

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  41. My daughter got her state license and is working as a PHLEBOTOMIST while still in college!! She will soon graduate as a psychologist and planning to further her education in to MED school!

    I encourage my six children to go to college specially my two GIRLS!! I was a stay home mom and it got to appoint where my husband needed my help, like my daughter I'm also a PHLEBOTOMIST and I'm glad to be back in the field and being able to help my husband!!

    And that's why we're teaching our CHILDREN specially the GIRLS the importance of a career!!

    Blessings from California 💕

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    Replies
    1. That's amazing! Good for you and what a blessing for your daughters they have such a strong mother figure and an example that women can truly make choices in life!

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    2. The Duggars have always had choices. None of them have ever stated that they were forced to do anything that they did not want to do. some people just like to criticize them

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    3. You go mama! Way to lead by example and be an encouragement to your STRONG women! We have taken the same approach in our home (although my oldest is only 6 so she’s obviously not working or in college). She wants to be a doctor who works toward finding a cure for food allergies! We encourage and are proud of that every day!

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  42. I am a freshman in college and if I had had the opportunity I would absolutely had done an associate degree beforehand. For people like Lauren who do not enjoy school there are many options that are similar to homeschool one of them is Ashworth College and you can find courses in Coursera and edX

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  43. It is the husband's place to provide for his family. The woman does not have to work outside the home

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    Replies
    1. Not realistic in this day and age- sometimes it takes two incomes to support a family. BTW, there's no law against a man staying home to take care of the kids and the wife working.

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    2. Oh my goodness is all I can say.

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    3. I have encouraged my daughter to do what makes her happy.

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    4. I agree, 6:36.

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    5. What if the husband suddenly falls ill, or is in a car accident and can't work? Or even dies? What if he abandons the family, or is abusive? What should a woman do then? Go home to her parents? Go on welfare? Start a Go Fund Me campaign? Just "trust in the Lord" and pray for a miracle?

      While I do believe in miracles, not all who pray for one get one. Sadly, we live in a fallen world with no guarantees. (Even if you argue "well, that's why a woman should carefully discern who she marries", even if she chooses well, that still doesn't guarantee against a sudden illness or accident that makes a husband unable to provide.)

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  44. I come from a family of 13 siblings and none of us went to college yet have never been homeless. Not enough people have faith in the Lord to meet their needs.

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  45. My husband died and i have 2 children. I work 40 hours with no degree and we receive his social security check each month. Our needs are always met. Trust in God. It works.

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  46. Lauren has made it clear she doesn't want to continue her education. The only career she wants is to be a "Duggar wife" and have babies. Her parents at least gave her the opportunity and she's made her choice. Being dependent on a husband isn't always totally wonderful. Look at Anna and the issues she's had to deal with.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Every person has the opportunity to attend college no matter how they grew up. There is a thing called financial aid and loans. Tons of people pay their schooling back when they have graduated. Adults can do what they want to do.

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    2. Well when you take your vows for better or for worse then you never know what you are going to get. She forgave her husband just as God forgave us. She is going by her faith and is doing what is right in the eyes of God and her family. I applaud Anna. She has a strong faith.

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    3. Did she say that? I don’t think so. It is very condescending to say they only want to be wives and have babies. Joy helps her husband flip houses. Jinger helps her husband with his ministry along with playing the piano. Anna is busy homeschooling.... we see a few minutes of their lives on the show. I wouldn’t make assumptions about what they do the rest of the time. Having children and taking care of them is a full time job along with running a home. I have worked full time and stayed home full time. It was a lot more work to be home all day. When I worked, I could leave the house clean in the morning and be gone all day, so everything was still tidy once we got back. When I stayed home with my children, it was constant work keeping the house clean and everyone fed and teaching them new things. Josh made very bad decisions but not every husband goes down that path.

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  47. College is not everyone

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    Replies
    1. True, but being a "stay at home wife" isn't for everyone either. Also education in some sort of job skill is never a bad thing because women should be able to support the family if necessary.

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  48. Being married and raising children is a desire for lots of people. Even if a woman receives a degree and doesnt try to use it for 20 plus years she might not be able to by then.

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  49. Motherhood is a calling for lots of women. God wants us to follow our heart. The duggars follow whatever the holy spirit is calling them to do. That is how they live, which is the christian way.

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  50. I am glad Lauren is not using her degree and is instead opting to be a mother. Motherhood is such a rewarding vocation. She will not regret it.

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  51. Josiah and Lauren will make great parents. Be fruitful and multiply!!

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  52. I hope the Duggars have hundreds of grandchildren. They are such a Joy.

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  53. I let God dictate every decision in my life. That is the biblical way to live.

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  54. I was not a christian until o started watching the Duggars. They have had a profound influence on my life even though i have never met them. They are the christians that i aspire to be. Thank you Duggars for showing me a better, Godlier way to live! You are doing everything right in the way you raise your family. There are lots of others who could learn a great deal about how to correctly raise their children by following your examples. Living a christ filled life is really the only way to be Truly happy.

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  55. How big is this car lot? If all the boys work at the lot selling cars, and doing some real estate eventually they will have to compete with each other for commission/money. Or does all Duggar money go into one big pot and then get divided equally?

    Also Josiah walks way too fast...or is it Lauren who is setting the pace? They seemed out of breath (did it during the engagement too).

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  56. First of all I think some people are being way too hard on Lauren. Not too many 18 year olds really know what they want to do in life. Just because she decided nursing wasn't for her, does NOT mean her college education was a waste. So far she has come across as very confident and assertive, more than any other Duggar bride. I don't think that's a bad thing.

    And while I agree not everyone should go to college, I am shaking my head at the idea that people who DO go to college aren't reading the Bible, or don't trust in God to provide. I really don't understand why some people think that.

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  57. 6:36 sometimes the wife HAS to work. Life happens and is not always fair.

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  58. Many many women have become embittered when they go for a career before family. They realize too late that they should have had kids young and by the time they want a family their biological clock has stopped

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