Career Change at 38....need advice

Nurses Career Support

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:confused: I have been a paralegal for 13 years and am so incredibly hating my profession. I want a career thats challenging but fulfilling at the same time. In law all everyone ever does is fight. The profession is taking chunks out of my soul everyday. I love to learn and I always wanted to be an RN but somehow got stuck on the legal path in college. I am 38 and a widow with 2 children. I am debating quitting my job and going to school full time. I receive survivorship benefits so that can carry me through college. I have so many questions though. Since this career is new for me, do I take an LPN program and pass as an LPN first, then consider my ADN / RN or just go straight for the RN? I'm at a loss here. But have always wanted to do this. Any pointers and advice is greatly appreciated. Thank you.:)
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i would suggest going straight to RN b/c when you graduate you will have many more options. do you have a bachelor's already in something else? if so, have you thought about an accelerated BSN program? that' might be an option for you. i would start looking into schools and if you need any prerequisites, you can often take them at a community college (less $$) and then go to school

becoming a nurse was my 2nd career and there were people who were in their 50s getting their BSNs. good luck!!!

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Specializes in med/surg, hospice.

I agree with blueindigo, go for your RN it'll open more doors. Nursing is also my 2nd career, I thoroughly enjoyed school...I think having life experience behind you makes it easier and much more enjoyable. Good luck in your journey!:w00t:

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I have an associates degree only already in business. So no accellerated program for me. The RN program her is very competitive in south florida. I am already enrolled and in the process of getting transcripts sent to the comm college then will take the prerequisites and see how I do and take it from there I guess. I think fear of failing is what scares me more than anything. I hear how brutal nursing school is and it scares me....a lot. Thanks for the advice :)

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Specializes in being a Credible Source.
II hear how brutal nursing school is and it scares me....a lot. Thanks for the advice :)
My take on it (Aug '09 grad) was that it was not nearly as bad as it is often portrayed. If you're of average intelligence, diligent, and serious about what you're doing, you'll likely do just fine.
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Go for RN, I also returned to school for a mid life career change, currently have Bachelors in Social Work and Psychology. I am turning 43 soon and have 3 kids.

It took 3 yrs for me to complete my associates in Nursing. Had to retake some science classes and 4 semesters of Nursing Classes. Just took NCLEX and awaiting results.

Go for it!

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I am 35...With a BA in criminal Justice and Operations Manager for an Investment firm. I decided i needed a career change and currently about to start my studies for an AAS -Rn and very excited....You can do iT!!!

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