CRNA or software engineer

Hi Rin! 

Those are two very different career paths-- Obviously, as a CRNA, I am biased towards choosing CRNA ?

However, the path to get there isn't for the faint of heart. It's a very competitive application and interview process for the actual CRNA School admission, plus there are requirements that need to be met in advance that typically take at least 1 year if not a few to achieve. 

For example, most programs require at least 1 to 2 years ICU experience; they may want (or prefer) you to have your CCRN, take the GRE and/or demonstrate leadership and committee experience. 

Many applicants also have several CRNA Shadowing experiences and additional volunteer/medical mission experiences; even Grad-Level courses taken in advance to demonstrate to admissions panel their capability of doing grad-level work. 

The passion and desire to become a CRNA is what drive many to follow through with this journey-- once there, not only is the salary nearly double (depending on where you live) of what you make bedside, but the flexibility and work/life scheduling balances are astounding. 

My best advice for you would be:

1- Get some shadowing experience. You won't know if you LOVE this career until you've seen it in action. You can check with your hospital anesthesia department for help finding someone to shadow; even contacting local pain clinics, surgery centers or your state association for opportunities. 

2- Grab this FREE 8 Steps to Become a CRNA Planning Guide- it will outline the steps that you need to take to become a CRNA: https://www.cspaedu.com/planning

I hope this helps give you some things to think about! 

Cheers to your future, 

Jenny, MSN, CRNA and Founder of CRNA School Prep Academy