careers after my RN, which is best for me?

[jjhutman]

I plan going back to school after my RN here shortly and working part time. I talk to alot of nurses at the hospital I work at and I work with many old timers who say unless you plan on going further than a batchelors dnt go back to school. I think there right and wrong but I want to go back to school. I like school alot but arent sure what would be best for me after a batchelors. I have a high B in nursing right now and I have less than a year left. I was in the military before and flew in helicopters and was thinking about flight nurse, which requires time in the er, icu and trauma/paramedic type experience or class. Although I have thought of nurse anesthetist,nurse practitioner or physcian assistant. Im trying to figure out what would be best for me out of these 4 careers. Im 25 now and really dont want to be in school forever although I want to go further, Im not very confident in my math but I can do it, I want something very interesting not boring, a career were I can actually get into a school (Im smart but the type who has to study all the time, Im very dedicated, Im not the type who can study 2 days before the tests and get an A). If anyone can help I really appriciate it. Does anyone know any websites were I can get info on what would be best for me?

[HouTx, BSN, MSN, EdD]

I couldn't tell from your post whether you are currently finishing up your BSN or not. But if not - for sure, go ahead and do that. You're very young and have a long career path ahead. All of the careers that appeal to you will require advanced education.

Since you are a 'happy learner' and like school - go for it! Take advantage of employer tuition reimbursement programs to help fund your education. In the meantime, make every effort to move into a critical care environment and get the experience that is required as a pre-requisite for these advanced clinical practice areas.

[jjhutman]

Thanks for the reply