[ERICA57]

Thanks for your reply. I'm concerned because around here (Boston area) there is a surplus of everything...including new nursing grads. I've been reading the Massachusetts new grad posts, and it seems that many (or at least the ones that post) have significant trouble getting their first hospital job. And ...when there is intense competition for a limited number of jobs, my perrsonal experience has been that my "advanced" age works against me.

I am still going to do this...because I feel that I will find my niche out there, and I am more excited about nursing than I have been about anything for a long while. I just don't want to spend alot of time barking up the wrong tree (ie trying to get a hospital job if it's not really likely).

Thanks again.

[Susan863]

Hi, I am usually a "lurker", but this thread just pulled me in. I am a 39-year-old pre-nursing student, also with a B.A. and a Masters degree in non-nursing fields. Erica, I think that as a long-time educator, you have a knowledge base and skills set that could take you far, in nursing or in any field! My own inspiration to look at a career change to nursing came from a medical crisis involving me and my infant daughter. I have since heard the true story of a local woman who was a computer engineer and decided in her forties that she wanted a second career in medicine! She is now a practicing M.D.! I say, if your heart is in it, go for it!

As for the specific path, you have at least three options that I know of (Associates, Bachelors, Direct Entry Masters)... they are the three options that I am kicking around, myself. I wish you luck in your decision-making.

[butch228]

Erika,
I can see your point..the Boston area is a competitive market for nurses...physicians..most areas of health care. I guess you have to view the postings on allnurses with a grain of salt. You just can't take postings as mere facts..but someone's opinions, perspectives.
You certainly have to use your age /experience as an asset when applying to nursing jobs in competitive areas (like big teaching hospitals). I mean..who's better to handle a difficult , traumatic medical diagnosis of a patient. The twentysomething new grad or the mature new grad with life experience?! Remember..your age demographic ..the baby boomers will be using healthcare more..there will so many nursing opportunities for you!
Try not to worry..concentrate on your studies..enjoy your instructors..because soon it will be time to study for those boards.