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

The CSPA Conference experience is now available on demand.

With the Digital Pass, you can access CRNA school prep sessions, expert guidance, and the encouragement you need to keep moving forward.

👉Grab your Digital Pass Today!

Ready for more structure and support with your CRNA school prep?

Join a CSPA Intensive

You will get access to faculty guidance, application support, interview prep, and powerful conference sessions to help you move forward with confidence.

👉Enroll today.

Join the Waitlist for the 2027 CSPA Conference [Here]

We’re heading to Panama City, Florida for the 2027 CRNA School Prep Academy Conference, hosted in partnership with Florida State University!

Join us September 10–12, 2027 for an inspiring weekend designed for aspiring CRNAs who are ready to grow, connect, and take the next step toward nurse anesthesia school.

This event will bring together ICU nurses, CRNA faculty, SRNAs, mentors, and future CRNAs for a powerful in-person experience focused on:

•  CRNA school admissions guidance 
•  Interview preparation 
•  Clinical and professional development 
•  Networking with like-minded ICU nurses ...