Starting out in the ICU as a brand-new nurse is never easy—especially when you’re balancing life as a dad, navigating the burn unit, and staring down a 3.0 GPA on your way to CRNA.

In this episode of the CSPA Podcast, Jenny sits down with Jacob, an experienced ICU and travel nurse, to share his inspiring journey from burn trauma to CRNA school acceptance, recorded live at NTI 2025 in New Orleans.

Whether you’re an aspiring CRNA worried about your GPA, a nurse trying to gain confidence in the ICU, or simply looking for encouragement on your path, Jacob’s story is filled with practical lessons and honest insights to keep you moving forward.

In this episode, we discuss:

-Jacob’s journey starting out as a new nurse in the burn ICU

-How he built confidence by learning from techs, colleagues, and mentors

-How he overcame the challenge of a 3.0 GPA to get into CRNA school

-The role of resilience, mentorship, and emotional intelligence in interviews

-Why investing in support and preparation made all the difference

 

Want Guaranteed CRNA School Admission? Learn More about the CSPA 6 and 12-Month Intensives Here: https://community.crnaschoolprepacademy.com/join-cspa

 

Want more insights? Sign up for my FREE LIVE Q&A Session "Stand Out & Get In" to learn everything you need to know about getting into CRNA school. 

 

Join the Free CSPA Community! Connect with Aspiring CRNAs, Nurse Anesthesia Residents, practicing CRNAs, and CRNA Program Faculty Mentors who are ready to support you. Get real answers and expert guidance in a welcoming space that's free from misinformation and negativity. You don't have to do this alone! Join Now: https://www.cspaedu.com/community

Join Us for Gassed Up: Fired Up for CRNA School The CSPA 2026 Conference
June 12th - 14th at the University of Louisville, KY

Ticket and Agenda Information: https://events.crnaschoolprepacademy.com/

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Compare every CRNA program’s requirements, deadlines, and interview details—all in one organized spreadsheet. The CRNA School Data Sheet helps you filter programs by ICU experience requirements, GRE, CCRN, last 60 credit GPA, and more so you can build a smarter school list without the confusion.

Access it free here: https://community.crnaschoolprepacademy.com/crna-school-requirements-spreadsheet

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Get access to application & interview preparation resources plus ICU Educational Workshops that have helped thousands of nurses accelerate their CRNA success: https://community.crnaschoolprepacademy.com/join-cspa