Am I too young?

Published

Specializes in LTC for now.

Ok so I'm a 21 yr old LPN. I feel so out of place at my job. Most of my co-workers(nurses and aides) are way older than me. I feel like I am not taken seriously because of my age. I don't tell most people how old I am but I definitely look it. I am done with my pre reqs for RN school, but I think I should maybe wait until I am older to enroll. I feel confident in my nursing skills but like I said, will I be taken seriously?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in CDI Supervisor; Formerly NICU.

Can you do the job? That's all I care about.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Marie, I am 8 years older than you and am not even in a nursing program yet. If I were your CNA, all I would be concerned about is you knowing your job and being respectful; just like I would about anyone else. I say go for it..don't wait to continue school because of what other people might think! I admire you for knowing what you want to do at a young age and for already being an LPN, and if anything, I'm a little envious ;) Keep it up!:up:

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Peds/outpatient FP,derm,allergy/private duty.

Of course you will be taken seriously! I was 19 when I graduated LPN school! It's all about looking and sounding and acting like a professional! The only time I got any negative feedback was when I wore my hair in braids. It was a pediatric job but still. . . wouldn't recommend that one.

And really, don't put your dreams on hold because some people may be immature or shallow people. It isn't their life- it's your life. Good luck!! :)

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in NICU Level III.

I was the youngest RN on my unit for a while (graduated at 22) and now I'm seeing a LOT more younger.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Ortho.

I am 23, was 22 when I started as a RN. I get asked all the time what my age is because I look more like 16-17. Some patients and families even act nervous at first when they meet me, but once I prove myself competent, respectful, and friendly...they usually warm right up ;)

You definitely shouldn't let this prevent you from pursuing RN school, do it while you are young and fresh! Hang in there!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I'm in my 30's and started my Nursing Career recently (2nd career). If I was working with you and you were saying something sensible, I don't care how old you are.. I'm more likely to go with logic. Don't let your confidence bog you down =) People will use all kinds of tactics to assert control over you when they feel like they don't have control. Be confident with your facts and dont let people move you around. If you act like a kid, people are more likely to treat you as one...

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Cardiothoracic ICU.

The younger you start the better.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in PACU.

Don't let your age get in the way. Do an RN program as soon as you can and keep plugging ahead. You will be taken seriously if you're serious and do your job.

I'm fairly young myself, and was also 21 when I became an LPN, and my age hasn't really been an issue. Sure, most of my coworkers are around double my age and have kids older than me, but that's fine.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Cardiac Telemetry, Emergency, SAFE.

If YOU are ready, then go for it.

I started my RN program @ 25 years old with 18 year olds in the seat next to me... :p Dont feel too bad.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Ok so I'm a 21 yr old LPN. I feel so out of place at my job. Most of my co-workers(nurses and aides) are way older than me. I feel like I am not taken seriously because of my age. I don't tell most people how old I am but I definitely look it. I am done with my pre reqs for RN school, but I think I should maybe wait until I am older to enroll. I feel confident in my nursing skills but like I said, will I be taken seriously?

Can you learn? Can you perform?

Stop buying into other people's concept of how you shold look like or how old.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Of course you will be taken seriously! I was 19 when I graduated LPN school! It's all about looking and sounding and acting like a professional! The only time I got any negative feedback was when I wore my hair in braids. It was a pediatric job but still. . . wouldn't recommend that one.

And really, don't put your dreams on hold because some people may be immature or shallow people. It isn't their life- it's your life. Good luck!! :)

Why was this?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion