Paths to Nursing

[KimGonzo]

This was the best place I could think of to put this topic. I'm interested in getting into nursing, but don't have the means to go to school right at this moment. I'm making about $16/hour at my current job, and was wondering if there might be any comparable-paying jobs in the health care industry for someone with exceptional clerical and computer skills, and a high level of interest in the nursing industry?

[BBnurse34]

Do you like your current job?

[HISSYTHECAT]

What kind of a job are you in making $16 an hour. I for one would like to make that kind of money.

[researchrabbit]

A pharmaceutical company might be a good choice if you really want to change jobs, but it depends where you live; if you can add organization to your skills you might make a good clinical trials monitor -- but it's gruelling and lots of travel! (they do make lots of money)

Some other thoughts:

A 2-year community college program is comparatively inexpensive as RN programs go (although most nursing programs are day jobs).

While I went to school, my employer was understanding enough to make my hours flexible so that I could get the degree.

I also had a parttime job doing early am care for a quad lawyer.

Plus I financed part of my school as a "normal control" for gastro studies (involved NG tubes; since it was rather yucky it paid well).

Many hospitals offer scholarships if you agree to work there.

If you want to do it badly enough, there is always a way!

[RunninRN]

What I did was work full time and take classes at night for 2 years (all the pre-requisites) and paid off all debts. Then I worked partime evenings and took the final four semesters of nursing during the day.

There is also financial aid, scholarships and even loans.

If you want it bad enough you will find a way. That's what I did and I don't regret it at all!:roll