anyone did a career change from hair stylist to nursing,how did you do it? Manage you

Marie_LPN, RN, LPN, RN · Oct 15, 2006

I don't know anyone that was able to maintain their clients and go to nursing school.

Working for a chain salon might give more flexible options for working around your schedule, but the clients might not be as flexible, since they might be working or going to school as well.

Working for a chain may at least allow for more walk-in customers, and maybe help increase the client base, for example, if you went to school during the day and worked in a chain from 4 to 9pm, you would be catching people that come off work.

If you wanted to try and work for yourself and go back to school, try to inform your clients about the change in hours as soon as possible. Make a printout of what your new hours will be. But also, you might find those hours might wind up changing each semester and that wouldn't be good for a personal business.

suzanne4, RN · Oct 15, 2006

There have actually been a few here that have done just that. They used to post alot in the Break Room, some one there may remember who exactly.

But it can be done, same thing with any other job, if you are changing professions. There are many second "coursers" here. They work as accountants, chiropractors, have business degrees, etc. Soem are currently working full-time plus as respiratory therapists and now in RN programs.

Anything can be done if you put your mind to it.

Good luck with your career change.

Marie_LPN, RN, LPN, RN · Oct 16, 2006

Hairstylingnurse is the only person i can think of.

HeatherB,CST · Apr 8, 2007

Hi, I am currently a hairstylist planning to start Surgical Tech school in the fall. I have known many, many stylists who have become nurses. I think there is quite a parallel in skill sets required for both jobs. I've also read that nursing and doing hair are the #1 and #2 on lists of careers with the highest rated of job satisfaction...so the grass is greener on BOTH sides!

I work on a 50/50 comission in a high-end salon, 5 days a week. I make about a third of my weekly paycheck on Saturdays, so my plan is to continue to work Saturdays, maybe even extending my hours, while I am in school Mon-Fri. If you are able to use/hire an assistant, book heavier when you are there, and take more color clients vs. haircuts & blowouts, you should be able to maximize your limited time at work.

I saw that the original post was a while ago, maybe you could post an update on how its going?

Heather

LadyNASDAQ · Apr 8, 2007

A friend of mine who works in Thousand Oaks was a hair stylist for many years and went to Nursing School. I thought that was quite a change. She told me on the side she owns 2 salons and works as a stylist on her off days. I think that's one incredible entrepreneuer! She worked with me in the ICU a few years ago. We keep in touch by e mail all the time.

nsgshortage · Apr 12, 2007

I am confused. Are you your own boss right now? Don't get involved with nursing. The pay is garbage and worst of all you have too many people trying to control your life.

allnurses Guide · Apr 12, 2007

My best friend's daughter decided to go to nursing school after becoming a hair stylist . . . . she is just starting pre-reqs.

She didn't like the "drama" of a hair salon.

steph

nsgshortage · Apr 12, 2007

When she enters "RN" land, she will know what real drama is all about.

HeatherB,CST · Apr 12, 2007

As a hairstylist, I have reached a ceiling as far as earning potential. I already charge the highest prices in my city...I can't raise them. I'm already booked SOLID for 50 hours a week (thats 10 hours, NO LUNCH, Tues-Sat). Plus, on my two days off, I finally get to see my husband,children and take care of my house.

My only way to advance in this job is to open a salon (nooooo thank you) or teach cosmetology at the local Comm Coll. (for less $).

I already deal with difficult clients, bloated egos, and strong personalities. I feel more than prepared to start this new career in the OR (Surgical Tech/First Assistant or CRNFA are my possible goals).

I hope, Ibowknee, that you have made a decision and are taking steps to make it happen...Hairstyling is a gratifying profession, but the I'd bet rewards working in medicine will overshadow anything we would ever seen in the salon.

Good luck to you!

ps - Don't give up until you exhaust all financial aid and loan options...I know of people who are paying all their living expenses while in school with loans, aid, grants, etc. and don't have to work while in nursing shool.

Mommy TeleRN, RN · Apr 12, 2007

at my school nursing school is 3 days a week for the most part. I would find out about nurse intern opportunities in your area too that you might could pursue after 1-2 semesters of nursing school. In my area the pay is pretty good and it would give you great experience - if that is an option you would only need to juggle for 1-2 semesters with hairstyling.