[terry m]

Hi - I'm soon to be 46 and thinking about nursing for the fiftieth time in the past several years. I'm widowed, with an 11 year old, and looking for an interesting and fulfilling career. I can't enroll in nursing school until I take some classes over again as it's been many years since micro, chemistry, etc. My own personal issues aside(!), I've wondered what the difference is between entering an accelerated nursing program with a four-year degree in another area, and entering a Bachelor's nursing program without a previous degree. Other than time, is the education the same, and is one preferred over another? Thanks - Terry

[SarasotaRN2b]

Hi Terry,

I think I am in totally the same boat. Nursing had actually became like an albatross around my neck. I figure that until I finally take the step and get into the program that I can stop thinking about becoming a nurse as much as I have been.

I would check into schools in your area about the specifics on accelerated versus BSN under normal conditions. Take the step. The worst that can happen is that you find out nursing isn't for you, but the best is that you are doing something instead of thinking about doing something. You'll definitely find a lot of support on this BB.

Kris

[terry m]

Hi Kris - You hit the nail on the head; it feels exactly like an albatross around my neck. San Diego State offers a BSN program, but no accelerated nursing with a previous degree. They require a certain amount of hours in a volunteer capacity at a hospital, etc., before acceptance into the program and accept applicants on a point system, which may or may not be the same as other BSN programs. I guess volunteering will be the key - I admit that I'm afraid that what I would be allowed to do as a volunteer won't give me a feel for nursing (could just be another excuse not to take a step in the right direction). Have you spent any time volunteering?

Terry

[SarasotaRN2b]

Hi Terry,

In the past I had volunteered within an Emergency Department, and I think that it gave me a better view at how the medical team works together. There are any number of volunteer possibilities, check them out.

I know that for myself, I've got to take the bull by the horns and just do it. I guess it is just taking that first step and not letting fear and apprehension guide me.

Feel free to PM me or email me at kml1764@aol.com. Maybe we can work on this together.

Kris

Originally Posted by terry m

Hi Kris - You hit the nail on the head; it feels exactly like an albatross around my neck. San Diego State offers a BSN program, but no accelerated nursing with a previous degree. They require a certain amount of hours in a volunteer capacity at a hospital, etc., before acceptance into the program and accept applicants on a point system, which may or may not be the same as other BSN programs. I guess volunteering will be the key - I admit that I'm afraid that what I would be allowed to do as a volunteer won't give me a feel for nursing (could just be another excuse not to take a step in the right direction). Have you spent any time volunteering?

Terry

[SarasotaRN2b]

Hey Terry,

I guess the bull grabbed me...I found out just this afternoon that I got into the BSN program at the university. I'm excited and scared witless at the same time.

Kris

[terry m]

Congratulations!!! Exciting stuff - where will you be going? (Wish me luck on finding the volunteer opportunity that convinces me nursing is in the cards)!

Terry

[SarasotaRN2b]

Hi Terry,

I got into University of South Florida. It is supposed to have a good reputation, and am really glad to finally know that I am actually taking that first step.

Good luck on a volunteer position. Let me know how it goes.

Kris

[RainDreamer]

Hi and welcome to allnurses!!

[Thunderwolf]

Congrats Kris!!

Terry, Welcome to allnurses!!!
I wish you the best.