how to select a nursing school?

dear forum member:

I am considering change my career to nursing field. Please give me some advises on how to

find out and determine if a nursing school offer a good program (things like instructors, alumni network, have good relationship with local hospital so students can practice what they have learned etc)

I can think of talk to school nursing counselor, talk to people who have graduated from that school before.

I appreciate if you can share your experience and give me some recommendations

P.S. I live in state of California. There two schools close to me that offer nursing program(s) Deanza college (2 year program-ASN)
San Jose State University (offer BSN program)

Jeff
4-2-06

check accreditation and NCLEX pass rates. In the ADN program check to see if those credits transfer to a BSN program someplace or if they have a joint venture with a 4 yr program....check the waiting list for getting in and getting done. Check not only when classes are scheduled but what are clinical days is there 1 full day per week or 2 half days or evenings...when are they and where will you have to travel further for clinicals.