While some are here sketching the blueprint of their nursing career, here I am torn whether to pursue a career to become a CRNA or stay as an ICU nurse.
Brief background about me. I'm a male nurse who took nursing as a second degree overseas at the age of 35. 2 years later came back to the US but not without a struggle with BRN for an ATT. Thankfully passed NCLEX on my first attempt then landed my first job in a hospital after 4 months. Accepted an offer at a Med Surg unit which I wanted to since I'd like to get a good foundation of being a floor nurse. Two years passed and I showed my interest in the ICU. I was given the chance to work with the finest RNs in the hospital. I'm on to my first year in ICU and plan to take the CCRN this year. My initial intention was to get a good grasp of the ICU setting in order to join the ranks of RNs in the academe. However, I became interested in CRNA when one of my colleagues encouraged me to look into it since I don't see myself being a bedside RN until the day I retire.
Here's my dilemma. No savings. Not liquid. Living paycheck to paycheck because of my previous loans. Not certain if I can financially survive the 2 yr program without having to work. My mind is willing to go through the rigid program that the course requires. Would a student loan be able to fund it 100%? Is 41 years old too old to get into the program? (I'll be 41 if I get accepted for next year's.
My co worker's advice was to apply first and let destiny take its course since there is only a very limited number of seats available each year.
