Question regarding nursing school?

I'm graduating high school in June of 2008, and want to get into nursing. If I become an RN after passing the exam and achieving my ASN, could I go back to college to get my BSN while working as an RN at the same time? I live in the state of Illinois as well, I don't know how relevant that is.

Also, could anyone reccomend any nursing colleges in the state of Illinois (Chicagoland area)? Thanks.

Way back in nursing school, before I'd even APPLIED for my state nursing board exams, I started getting mailings (both E-mail on my computer and T-mail from the Post Office) from zillions of schools and programs telling me how easy it would be transition from RN to BSN, even while working full time.

I've never RESPONDED to any of these offers, so I can't give you any feedback on how difficult or expensive it is. But I would assume that it's possible. Now here is my personal perspective, which you may not like.

I very much regret that I went directly for my RN without first working as an LPN. If you have that magic "RN" after your name, then you are in charge. Hospitals, nursing homes, etc, will have a single RN on duty and remaining staff will be LPNs, to save money. You will be expected to not only do your own assignment, but to do everything that the LPNs can't do (IVs for instance), AND supervise the entire staff (LPNs, CNAs, med techs, housekeepers, etc.). If ANYBODY fouls up, your DON will hold YOU responsible, all because of that "RN" after your name.

Personally, I'd rather make a little less money and have a lot less responsibility AND a lot less work. My advice for you to become an LPN first and work in variety of settings before making the decision to go for your RN, and eventually your BSN.

It's terrible to be a 24 year old brand new nurse and be "boss" over people who are twice your age and have been nursing for 20 years. As the only RN in group of LPNs, you aren't going to get the support and help you need in those first difficult years, you're going to get resentment of your higher pay scale. Sorry to rain on your parade, but that's the reality as I experienced it.