work/school combo

[leprn56]

Hey everyone, currently I am a full time day shift RN going to grad school part time and came across a part time day shift opening. Since I have come across this potential job opportunity, I have been considering switching from working full time and going to school part time to working part time and going to school full time. I am currently enrolled in a Masters degree program to become an FNP. I have already completed one semester of part time study. Now I feel like I am in a fork in the road, deciding whether I should work full time and go to school part time and be done with the FNP program which would take 4 1/2 years or switch to working part time and going to school full time and be done with school which would take 2 1/2 more years. I am also considering pursuing a post master's certificate in holistic nursing which would take 1 year full time to complete and 2 years part time to complete, and then completing the DNP after that. In the end if I get to finish all of my schooling I would become an FNP with a specialization in holistic nursing and have a DNP as well. I really dont see myself as a floor nurse forever and find fulfillment in helping people by building long term partnerships and helping them in their wellness. I am currently 26 years old, not married yet but in a relationship and no children yet. My mother thinks that work is valuable experience and school is just to support my work as an RN. Any suggestions on what the wiser choice would be? Thank you!

[seaofclouds21, BSN, RN]

I think this is a decision that only you can really make. I am currently working FT and going to school FT. I have to work FT to help support my family. I chose to go to school FT because I want to move forward with my career sooner than later. I'll graduate from grad school a few months before I turn 35. I have a very supportive husband and my employer has allowed me the flexibility to work a schedule that fits with my classes and study times.

If I was in your position and could afford to work PT and go to school FT, that's what I would do.

[BiotoBSNtoFNP]

After two semesters of my full time FNP program I switched from full time work part time work (12 hour shifts, overnight). I considered switching to dayshift and staying full time but decided just to drop to part time overnight. I love PT work and FT school. I am no longer running around with my head cut off trying to balance everything :). I just have to support myself, no husband or children so it worked out very well for me. If financially you dont need to work full time while you finish your degree then I would definitely suggest seriously considering it!