best path to take, and the realities

U.S.A. Ohio

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I'm nearly 40, and have had a terrible string of lousy jobs since high school. I'm tired of the fact that I cannot support my family. This has led me to consider going back to school for something that will change that. Nursing seems to be the best option. All the carreer prospects indicate that job growth will be good, and the colleges I'm looking at are boasting near 100% job placement rates. Then again, I see posts here talking about how people are having a difficult time getting a job- even after applying for craploads of positions. What is the truth here? IF I do this, should I expect to be entertaining job offers, or sitting on my hands hoping something will fall into my lap? If it matters, I'm located in Ottawa county (on the lake, between Toledo and Cleveland), although I am very ok with the idea of moving to one of the big C's after graduation.

Is there a way to work into the workforce while still in school, so that I am (more) desireable upon graduation/licensure? FWIW- I am planning on getting my EMT certs- and hope to be a paramedic when I graduate. Would an STNA or maybe phlebotomy cert make any difference?

Thanks for the info!

FirePhage

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I can totally relate! I've had the same concerns and I'm a couple years older than you. I'm about to apply to the nursing program at my school(Columbus State Community College) and I have doubts every day. If I hadn't invested so much time in the prerequisits I'm not sure I'd follow through at this point. I figure that the economy is just hitting every job market and that when/if things start to balance out the nursing jobs will bounce back as well.

I've heard from several instructors that if you work as an STNA or PCA/PCT during nursing school you'll have a much better chance getting hired upon graduating. Not only would you be working in the field getting experience, but you'd be in the right place/time for the openings.

None of this is factual of course, just theory. I'm looking forward to hear what others have to say.

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I too have heard the same thing about getting your foot in a hospital door ASAP. There have been so many posters that state your chances are better landing a job after graduation if you have done so. It's not guaranteed but it has worked well for others. Also many say that it helps during Nursing school. If it's really your passion to be a nurse, step out on faith and let the chips fall where they may

Stay encouraged,

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