I am contemplating on changing my career to the nursing field. I had the perfect opportunity in 2008 because of the economy and lay-off from job. Well I have worked as a legal secretary since 1997 just recently been certified as a North Carolina Certified Paralegal. However, I'm not finding any jobs as a paralegal, everyone says you don't have 'paralegal' experience! But I have done everything a paralegal would do! So I do have the desire to be in the healthcare field.. Just turned 46 and feel like it might be too late in life to do such a drastic change. Right now, my only option is to quit my job and take out student loans! That is very scary to me! I've talked to a couple of nurses that did that they are fine!
What's your opinion of doing such a drastic change?
What school would you recommend? CPCC or Carolina HealthCare...Gaston County??
This is not news to experienced Nurses, but there is no "shortage" of Nurses in most areas. Charlotte area has countless schools churning out new Nurses, for reference. :)
I am certainly not discouraging you, but be aware that it could take you 3-6 months to land your first job. This is something that you can prepare for.
OH WOW!! That's interesting!!! So graduating even from Carolinas College of Heath and Science will not guarantee you a job at that hospital??
I have heard of so much talk of a shortage for nurses. I would love working in a NH, they are in SUCH need of not only skilled nurses but nurses who CARE...I've seen a little of both. I would also like to experience travelling nurse positions.
Travel nurse positions traditionally require years of experience.
There is NO nursing shortage in the US, except for certain rural/underserved areas.
This is not news to experienced Nurses, but there is no "shortage" of Nurses in most areas. Charlotte area has countless schools churning out new Nurses, for reference. :)
I am certainly not discouraging you, but be aware that it could take you 3-6 months to land your first job. This is something that you can prepare for.
Thank you! I've thought about that and it has scared me a little. But I'm going to have faith that everything will work out:)
Choosing Nursing does not guarantee you a job here in Charlotte. Our hospitals only hire New Grads for "New Grad" positions, so if you see an RN listing on CMC or novant, it is for experienced RN's. There is a special designation for New Grads. New Grads are having difficulty finding jobs in Charlotte, NC, unless a Nursing home is something you are okay with.
I actually love LTC and SNF, I never wanted to work in a hospital.
dishes, BSN, RN
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