I need more nurse friends :(

[sckooshy1]

So, I was introduced to the idea of nursing about 9 years ago from my friend who was on her way to becoming a nurse. She is now a nurse, as is her sister, mother, sister-in-law.. so on. I also have another distant friend who became a nurse, which I kinda talked her into, rather than physical therapy that she was considering.

So here's my problem: These women either once encouraged me and were supportive, and are now unavailable, or I ask them things and get no support it seems, or no replies to a message on Facebook, when they are my Facebook friends, so I know they got the message. I just need some encouragment! A friend who has BEEN THERE and that IS already through what I am going through. A friend that I can ask my questions and relate my fears with! I need someone to remind me that it is possible, just like they once told me! Does anyone know what I mean?! I feel SO ALONE. No one encourages me, except my husband, and he just wants me to make money already, so you know how that goes. Thanks guys.

[Herrington]

One suggestion would be to volunteer at a hospital/clinic. I mean, obviously those places have tons of nurses and possibly students (the hospital I volunteer at is directly connected and affiliated with a school next door to it and I often see the students going about the halls) that you could talk to. You'll make friends as you mention your desire to become a nurse, learn things about it, etc.

On a related note, if you are regularly seen at a clinic for some health-related issue, you could mention to your doctor and the nurses there about your goals. I have a very extensive history as a patient with the hospital I volunteer at, and mentioned during one of my appointments to the nurse of my intentions, and she told my doctor. When he came in, he looked at me and said "So, nursing school, eh? You know, you ought to consider PA school." (which I may, but that's years down the road yet). And now at each appointment, they all ask me how classes are going, and I had a very lengthy discussion with one of the nurses and her experiences in nursing school, what she did (protip: write questions down and ask them to the nurses) while in school, etc. On another instance, I was talking to another one of my nurses before I even started classes, and I mentioned something like "Yea, if I get into nursing school...", and he held up his hand, pointed at me and said "No, when you get into nursing school.". That was an enormous confidence boost, hearing that from a nurse.

In essence, go and immerse yourself in the environment, and when you discuss your wanting to become a nurse to other nurses and students, I can well imagine you will make friends and learn a ton from them.