Am I too old to go back to school?

[mondkmondk]

I've been a nurse 18 years now, mostly in LTC. I have been an MDS/Care Plan Coordinator and did work for a year in home health/hospice. My desire is to become an adult NP. However, when I think of all the schooling ahead of me in order for me to do that, I feel tired. Has anyone here worked this long in LTC then gone back to school in order to do what they want in nursing? I have wanted this for years now...and have talked to several schools, online and offline campuses. I can finish up my BSN online, then transfer to a masters/NP program. I'm looking at about 4 more years of school.

My hubby is currently a nursing student himself, all with LTC background. I'm pushing him to go for his BSN as well and then taking a management job, like DON or ADON. He would be a really good manager in my opinion. But I really don't want us to be in school together either. But I could take some classes here and there to finish up my BSN online, then go from there.

What would you all do if you were me?

Blessings, Michelle

P.S. My youngest will start 3 year old preschool this fall...we currently don't plan on any more kiddos.

[snoopy29]

Of course you can do it - anyone that can juggle family, home and work can fit in the studytime.

Instead of looking at the vastness of 4years break it down in manageable pieces - set acheivable goals like getting through the first week, first month.

Turn the fact that both you and your hubby will be studying into an advantage you can support each other and also give each other an often much needed emotional shove when it get's tough.

Go for it - dreams should be followed - if not we are in danger of forever thinking if only :)

[zzrider]

You're only 37 - you're only too old to go back to school if you let yourself think you are too old.

I've got 6 years on you and I'm just now going back to school myself, and I'm undertaking a radical career change. I've got 20 years in IT, looking at changing to health care now. I'm currently taking an EMT-B course to get my foot in the door of healthcare, as well as working on the prereq classes for a nursing program. I love being back in school again.

[deleern]

you are the Perfect age. I was 45 when I did the LPN and the RN program. graduating at 48. I considered going on for more but I have enjoyed what I am doing. Not in the mood for more school.... at the moment.:)

[OnceMore]

If you do not do this, what else will you be doing four years from now? I bet you'd be looking around and hating yourself for not going back to school.

Four years is not a long time. Go for it!

[anurse28]

go for it. age doesn't really matter.

[pashark]

It can be done. I am a 37 year old student in a full time traditional BSN program. I have two children and it can be challenging at times, but it is worth it.

[Bella'sMyBaby]

And how old will you be in 4 years if you DON'T go back to school?

[CT Pixie, BSN, RN]

Well, Gee, I hope 37 isn't too old to go back. Since I'll be 41 soon and have plans on going back for the LPN to RN bridge :)

No, you aren't too old. Think of it this way..in 10 yrs you will be 10 yrs older. No if ands or buts, you WILL be 10 yrs older, but you can be 10 yrs older and NOT have the degree(s) you want or you can be 10 yrs older AND have the degree(s). The choice is yours.

[SpringerCab]

After 30 yrs of being an LVN I have decided to go back and get my RN and I am 52, so I don't think you are too old. I am taking one class at a time but I will get there.

[ICAN!]

if you do not do this, what else will you be doing four years from now? i bet you'd be looking around and hating yourself for not going back to school.

four years is not a long time. go for it!

my thought exactly! i will be graduating as an rn at the age of 50. go for it!

[slacktime]

Just finished ADN program last Dec, passed boards last month, will be 54 next May.