to work or not to work while in MSN program?

Nursing Students Post Graduate

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  1. Should I keep working per diem for better job offers after graduating MSN program?

    • 4
      yes, your job applications will look better with current work experience on them
    • 2
      no, your job's not even relevant to your new degree anyway.

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Hi guys, I have a little situation that I'd love some feedback on!

I have been working on an orthopedic med-surg floor for 5 years, but my husband's travelling more for work and I'll have to stay home with the baby now. At first, I felt uneasy about quitting but now realize this is a great opportunity to do an online MSN program. My dilemma is this: do I quit my job altogether, or stay on as per diem (about 3 shifts/month)? Quitting altogether would simplify my life, as we can get by without my income for now. BUT if I quit working completely, will this make me a less attractive job applicant once I finish my program? I worry that it will look bad to have not worked for at least 2 years, but on the other hand, I would like to think that being a full-time student will be enough of an excuse. It seems like most nurses go to grad school part-time while working full-time, which I worry will make me look lazy by comparison. What do you think are the pros and cons of not working while in grad school?

(I realize it would be helpful to know which specialty I'll go into, but I'm still undecided on that! Maybe education or CNS. All I know is my current job will not be directly relevant to my MSN degree, so maybe it won't really make that much of a difference whether I keep working there or not)

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Specializes in nephrology.

Nerselisa,

You may need to work some while in graduate school for the practicum requirement. If you could do a few days a month that would be good. It will keep you in the network and get you out of the house.

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