would appreciate some advice for my situation..

[benster]

Hello,

So here is my story. I took classes at a jc with hopes of being a PA. I transferred to UC Davis, and I did not do well my 1st semester. I took an upper division systemic physiology class and received a D and organic chem and received an F. I took systemic physio the next quarter and had a mental breakdown, so I had to withdraw from the course. The next quarter After having a horrible start at college, I had to leave school the following quarter, since I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. I had to have 2 surgeries and radiation treatment. The following year I tried to return to school, but had to withdraw again, since I had more unforeseen health issues.

So I decided to take some time off and try to recuperate. I finished some prereqs at a community college. I did well at the community college ( took micro received and A and took physio and received an A) and decided to transfer to another college to receive my bachelors in health science, with hopes of getting into an entry masters program for nursing instead of the PA track. 2 weeks into starting my new school, I had more health issues that required surgery. So I had to leave school (again). I tried to go back to school for the fall 2013 semester, and was initially feeling okay, but after the first 3 weeks into the semester I had a mental breakdown that was severely affecting my overall well being, so I had to take a leave of absence from school...(again)

I'm at a crossroad right now in my life. I'm not sure if I should try to go back to get a bachelors, and then try to get into an accelerated program or a nursing program at a community college. Or instead of trying to get my bachelors (Still need 17 classes to finish my degree) should I just try to get into a nursing program at a community college and Samuel Merritt's BSN program?

I know I might have to wait to get into these nursing programs, so I was considering trying to get into a CNA or EMT program while waiting. After everything I have been through, it has made me want to pursue a career in nursing. My lifelong dream has always been to be in the medical field.

So should I continue pursing the bachelors in health science (would take about 2 years), and then try to get into a ABSN program or community college nursing program

or save money, and work in the mean time while waiting to get into a nursing program.

Any suggestions/advice would be appreciated.

[ArrowRN, BSN, RN]

The only comments I have is that given your health history, I admire your chutzpah. You are obviously by no means a dummy, and you show fortitude in the face of much adversity.

And, 28 is quite young, by the way. My best to you in choosing the path forward. As long as your health is stable, the sky's the limit.

Yep 28 is quite young, that why slowing down is a good idea, I'm 37 and working on my first bachelors degree.When I made the decision to change careers, I wanted to rush things too fast and that was not working out. So what if I took 4 years to get my prereq done? I slowed down, did it, got my AA with honors and with every little climb I'll eventually reach the top....so can you.

[benster]

@ Kooky Korky- I have to have my TSH suppressed, for long term management of thyroid cancer. My T4 levels are on the upper range, so I'm slightly hyperthyroid. Not having a thyroid and having to take synthroid for the rest of my life sucks, but things could be worse. To be honest, I never felt quite the same after having my thyroid removed.

@ Guttercat-Thanks for the words of encouragement. I would really love to pursue a career in nursing. When I was 19 yrs old I completed a Certified nursing assistant program, and the experience made me want to pursue a career in healthcare. I had initially wanted to become a PA. I know my calling is to be able to help and care for those in need. I personally know what it's like to be a patient that feels nervous/scared. As as nurse, I feel I would be able to relate with the patients, and I would want to help them feel at ease.

@ Man-nurse2b- Congrats on receiving your AA with honors. I'm sure it has been a long journey, but it is certainly paying off. I just need to have patience with myself and my current situation. I've been going to school for a long time, and I get frustrated that things have not gone according to plan. Hopefully, I will be able to reach my goals like you.