[mama-rn]

I have been accepted into 2 CRNA schools and now contemplating on what to do. I was so sure before applying but now I have second thoughts on how much time it will take away from the family. I have 3 children - the oldest being >10 and youngest at 2. My husband is very supportive of my decision either way and has told me of the amount of time and effort that will be needed (he is a CRNA). My greatest concern is my 2 year old and missing those important "milestones". I'm just wondering if any other mothers out there who are CRNAs had similar thoughts and how they came to their decisions. Just when I make the decision of moving forward, I think about my "baby" and have second thoughts. I know that CRNA would fit well with my family life in the long run, but it's getting there that scares the heck out of me at this point. I envisioned having a very fulfilling career and working part time a couple of years out of school so I have the best of both worlds. I know I can make it through school but if anyone has any advice on how they have juggled school and young children, please let me know.

[Floridanurse]

I chose to go back to school when my son was 6 mos old to get my BSN. He has no ideal mommy is in school. I did some of my classes online and would read while he plays in the sprinkler or with his toys in the house. My goal is to get into CRNA school within the next year (still have to take my GRE). I just completed my BSN program and am taking 6 mos off to get my house more organized and relax a little. I think once you are done, you will be glad. Just choose your job wisely after graduation--no call, so you can spend time with the children. I already know who I want to work for, just need to get through the program. The anesthesiologist at the place I want to work are all for me going to school and encourage me to do so.

[AdonaiLoveable]

I am also contemplating the question you are posing about attending such a demanding program when you have a small child. I just finished a 2nd degree BSN program and have job lined up with a CVICU which I'll start this Fall a couple of months after our baby is born. (I am pregnant with our first child and was able to negotiate a later start date than most new grads). We'd like to have one more baby fairly soon, before I apply to CRNA programs since we're not getting any younger (I'm almost 28 and my husband is 37).

One CRNA who is mentoring me and nearing retirement had this piece of advice for me...she said she thought it better to go to school while my babies were to young to ask me where I'm going. She went to CRNA school when her son was very young and she was a single parent. She says getting her education out of the way early on allowed her the opportunity to be with her son more during other times during his childhood and teen years when he really needed her.

Congrats on getting into not one, but two CRNA programs! What an accomplishment! You being in school might be a great adventure for your family and a special time for Dad to really connect with the children in a new and different way.

Adonai

[Zinobile]

You have to do what's right for you. Time is going to pass anyway. I have 3 children as well, youngest < 5 and I know the feeling of missing milestones. I think you need to ask yourself why you want to go back to school in the first place? Is it to make a better life for your family? Is it to fulfill a long-time dream of your own? If the milestones mean more to you than the degree, you know your answer. If someone's pushing you toward it, it has to be in YOUR heart.

I kind of fell into it. I wanted to go back to school but I couldn't decide on what for. I didn't want to spend $$ on a graduate education and not be able to find a job. I wanted to remain in the clinical setting, yet I never thought I was smart enough or diligent enough to go to anesthesia school. My husband got on board with the idea fast and together we made a plan. I don't know what programs you've been accepted into but my clinical site offers a great deal of flexibility. My children are also learning the lesson that "learning is lifelong". I expect them to continue their education until they're well into adult hood, as have I. They are proud of my accomplishments just as I am proud of theirs, and they like to brag about "mommy going to school" just like they do. We shop for school supplies together, pack lunches together, etc. It can be quite a positive role-modeling opportunity if you make it such.

It all comes down to why you want to do it. Best of luck,
Z