I'm 42 and looking to change careers and become an RN.
1. Initially I was focused on getting my BSN at a private school like Stanbridge or West Coast in California. I've read bad reviews from both schools but both schools also give me my BSN in 3 years with a hefty fee.
2. Go the public school route, take all my pre-reqs which will take a year or a little over a year, then apply to public schools for a 2 or 3 year BSN. Cheaper, maybe better education harder to get into with possible waitlists or lottery system and a longer process.
My main concern is my age and I'm worried if I do the public school route it will take longer and by the time I graduate I'll be around 45/46.
I could also get my ADN , work as an RN and do a bridge program later to get my BSN. But everyone says BSN is better for working at magnet hospitals. I'm in Southern California.
Before you change careers, please be sure Nursing is really what you want to do! Many people, like my students, have a "romanticized" view of what Nursing truly is. Many have decided upon Nursing school after watching Grey's Anatomy! I hear this all the time! Yikes!! If you've never shadowed a Nurse or two inside a busy hospital inpatient unit, then I'd definitely recommend before deciding to switch careers. At this point, Nursing has become as tiring and thankless as being a teacher! I know my comments may sound a bit harsh, but I'm not trying to "burst your bubble" or "bring you down". However, I am trying to give a realistic picture of what Nursing is for some because it's not all "roses"! Nursing has its rewarding moments and many have had wonderful careers, but it's very tough! I just want to save you some heartache if I can by cautioning you to be sure about what it is you're getting yourself into!
I received my ADN a few weeks shy of age 50. I went to an inexpensive community college part time, while working. I didn't choose to go on to a BSN, but there are many options these days. At this point, if I were you, I'd be concerned with the school's passing rate, and NCLEX passing rate. Be careful of accelerated programs unless you're an extremely good student. Some have lower pass rates. If you're normally a B student, you may find yourself getting C's. Good luck!
You are absolutely correct about the accelerated programs. I was in one for asn and the amount of work was horrendous. We started out with an average size class of lpn's, then only to have 4 to graduate. One hasn't passed her boards yet. The pass rates for a program like that is kinda blurred between the other nursing program the school offers.
I went back to school at the age of 50 to become a nurse, got my associate in nursing science, passed my NCLEX-RN boards, then went for my BSN. You can do it if this is your dream.
Graduated from nursing school in 1978, I am now 70, disabled after being injured by a patient. and worn out from the long hours. Stress and abuse by admin, patients, families and other staff. It's changed alot in some ways but now in others. Technically there are more choices but it's all still a gamble.
I loved the challenges and contributions I made and miss the camaraderie and some patients.
I understand life long dreams. Mine was Physical Therapy. Wish I had switched. Follow your heart, I wish you luck and success.
Are you borrowing money for this? What kind of physical shape are you in? Can you be on your feet 12 hours for 3 days straight? Be realistic before you spend 60 grand. If you are taking out loans be prepared to be paying back for years....meaning you will need to be working for years. I just retired from the Army Nurse Corps at age 45 and no way I could do bedside nursing 12 hours a day anymore. I still work..part time admin gig. I am not saying you can't, but just be careful before borrowing tons of money.
I suppose. She will be a brand new nurse with zero experience. Not sure working by herself will be perfect, but whatever. I am retired now. Do whatever makes one happy.
DrNurseEd
17 Posts
Before you change careers, please be sure Nursing is really what you want to do! Many people, like my students, have a "romanticized" view of what Nursing truly is. Many have decided upon Nursing school after watching Grey's Anatomy! I hear this all the time! Yikes!! If you've never shadowed a Nurse or two inside a busy hospital inpatient unit, then I'd definitely recommend before deciding to switch careers. At this point, Nursing has become as tiring and thankless as being a teacher! I know my comments may sound a bit harsh, but I'm not trying to "burst your bubble" or "bring you down". However, I am trying to give a realistic picture of what Nursing is for some because it's not all "roses"! Nursing has its rewarding moments and many have had wonderful careers, but it's very tough! I just want to save you some heartache if I can by cautioning you to be sure about what it is you're getting yourself into!