Advice Requested - Entering Nursing School - NY or NJ?

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I am a single mother re-entering the work force and considering a career in Nursing. I have always wanted to be a nurse and as a mother of a special needs child, feel that my manner and disposition would suit the profession.

I am currently taking pre-requisite courses at Bergen Community College and hope to apply to the Associate Degree Nursing program by the Fall or perhaps the Spring. My plan was to take the 2 year course, become an R.N. then continue on to a Bachelors Degree in an R.N. to B.S.N. program.

I have some questions that would be wonderful if some members could post their advice.

1. Does it matter if you attend a Community College versus a Hospital Program versus a 4 Year program at the beginning? Do potential employers favor one more than the other?

2. How is the job market currently for new R.N. grads?

3. Does taking classes in NJ allow you to become licensed in NY? Further to that - is the Job Market better in NY? To be clear - I am referring to NYC - I live just outside NYC in NJ - so either area is accessible.

4. Can anyone advise on a realistic salary for a new grad and is age a factor - I am currently 37 and will be 40 most likely when I graduate. I can only find averages online and I don't think they are accurate for both this area and the status of a new grad.

Many thanks to any and all who post - your advice is greatly appreciated.

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