Considering changing careers

Episkey · Dec 9, 2019

I'm 34, with a 1 yr old. I went back to school (pre-reqs at BMCC) 2 years ago. The last 2 years have been surprisingly amazing. I didn't get great grades in undergrad, and certainly didn't take any bio, math or chem in college, as I had nightmares from those classes in HS. But I ended up really loving most of my classes. I don't regret leaving my previous career, but know that I can always fall back on it if the nursing thing doesn't work out.

I applied to 2 schools (an Associates program and a ABSN program). I'm waiting to hear back from both of them. If I get in for next year, it'll be at least another 2-3 years before I can start working. Luckily I can take that time off to pursue it, and I know it will benefit my family in the end. If you can afford to do it, I'd say go for it!

But I'd also suggest volunteering at a hospital if you can to see if you like the environment before committing to paying for tuition.

Good luck!

Hoosier_RN, MSN · Dec 10, 2019

Read this, as there are many like it on here, especially New York, California and Texas

NorCalKid · Dec 12, 2019

If worried about the job thing I'd start by taking the 4 nurses you already have in your family to lunch one at a time. Have your questions ready and ask them. If they live in your area ask them if places hire new grads and 2 year degrees.

There is a big difference between those who send out applications online and complain about not getting a job and those that find out who does the hiring, go meet them and put their res in their hand in person. Put a face to the name. Explain that they followed instructions and submitted everything online as instructed but really wanted to meet you as I really want to work here, and here's why...

nursingnursing1212 · Dec 15, 2019

On 12/5/2019 at 2:25 PM, ShannonMH said:
Hello, I am a 27 year old single mom to a 6 year old son. I have been in the banking/accounting field for over 6 years now. I am seriously considering switching careers to nursing. I do not have any degrees. I have about 70 college credits, mostly business and a few pre reqs for the nursing program. I have always been interested in the medical field but did not think it was possible for me to pursue it with having to work full time. I recently had a discussion with my dad (we both live with my dad), I explained to him that I don’t see myself in the accounting field forever and would like to do something more with my life and have something more stable & make more money so I can move out with my son. He said he wants me to be happy and be able to eventually provide for myself and my son which is my goal as well. I live in NYC and make about $43,000 a year which after taxes is about $29,000 and that’s not a livable salary in NYC. Nurses where I am start at about $60,000. I don’t want to struggle for the rest of my life. I want to be able to help people and do something more fulfilling. I know it’s not a glamorous job. I know the hours are long and sometimes you don’t always get the nicest patients. I have 4 nurses in my family. I just don’t know if I am being selfish for wanting to take this risk & quit my job. I am also extremely nervous for nursing school because I hear horror stories but I wouldn’t have a job, so I would just be focusing on school and my son. I would be finished with the program Spring 2023 with an associates in nursing and I would continue to go for my bachelors while working. Anyone experienced similar feelings? Do you regret it? Any advice would be much appreciated!

Sorry this post is so long!
Thanks so much!

Hey! I'm a current nursing student in NYC and will be done in August. I've done clinicals at most of the private hospitals in NYC and many of the hospital administrators/nurses I have spoken to state that the starting salary for new grads (at these private hospitals, I can't speak on public ones) is ~90k. However, none of these hospitals (I doubt public will either anymore) will hire someone without a BSN.

My recommendation to you would be to get the associate's at a community college (study hard and ENSURE you graduate on time). Then, after you pass NCLEX, see if you can get a nursing job anywhere (nursing homes, community nursing, summer camp nurse, etc) while taking the RN to BSN online through a SUNY (as long as you're a good online learner). This will allow you a ton of flexibility compared to an in person BSN which will be helpful (I would imagine) with a child at home and while working a job. You will attend clinicals at a site in your area that the school sets up for you (at least this is the case with SUNY Delhi).

Wishing you the best of luck, regardless of the path you choose!

HandsOffMySteth · Dec 22, 2019

I would be careful about becoming a nurse just for higher income. From what I understand ,the work is exhausting with little time off and requires you can handle a high stress load. If you are passionate about nursing none of that matters. Best of luck to you.

Mike