Follow my heart or follow fear

augurey · Jun 5, 2015

I think it's going to depend on what your needs and circumstances are.

For example. Having a BSN is pretty much essential (especially if planning on working in a hospital). Due to our circumstances, I don't have the time to spend on the BSN while my family only has one income, so the plan is ADN first, work and then do RN to BSN so that I can start providing some income for my family as my husband just simply cannot be the only source of income that long. So for us, it makes sense for me to do the ADN and then do RN to BSN while working. And if I can't get into an ADN right now, then STNA or LPN and work my way up so that I can get some kind of income for my family while I work my way up to an eventual BSN (which is a long road to take, but very possibly the only road to take if this is what I really want).

If you're okay with living with your parents while in school and don't want to work while in school and your ultimate goal is RN (whether ADN or BSN), I would go for for the RN.

If you're really wanting to just get through the program, get a job and move out, then you may want to do the LPN.

I would think about what you're wanting and needing and make a pros / cons list. If your circumstances have little weight in your decision, follow your heart on it. If your circumstances play a big role, make the list and do what is best for you and your circumstances. Think about how you can move forward (if you choose to) which each decision and how it's going to impact you.

I know it can be a really hard decision (as I'm facing some big decisions myself), but you really need to do some soul searching and decide what is right for you (as hard as it may be).

nurseprnRN, BSN, RN · Jun 5, 2015

If you want to improve your life, chances for employment, and self-esteem, don't waste your time on LPN. Go to the ADN program, pass NCLEX, and plan to start your BSN immediately after that.

As to your age, remember my friend who wanted to go to med school at 32. Everybody told her, "But you'll be forty by the time you finish!" and she said, "I'll be forty anyway."

My oldest ADN student started school at 63.

As to your question ... I think you know the answer. "Following your fear" is no way to live. Seriously consider getting some short-term counseling to help you through this rough spot so you can achieve the success you deserve. Yes, you do.

Cakelady1 · Jun 5, 2015

I'm 35.

I have always wanted to go to nursing school. But, I had to work while my husband was getting his Master's Degree. Then we had the kids - and that took a long time due to my fertility issues. Then I was a stay-at-home mom, which is a wonderful role I have held since 2004.

Finally, it's my turn.

Am I scared? Yes. Am I wondering how on earth I'm going to juggle this? Yes. Am I determined to get it done? Heck yes. I'm going to be an RN and I'm going to be a good one.

Do what you want. Don't let fear control your life. If you want to be an RN, **DO IT**.

Treu · Jun 6, 2015

Thanks, I appreciate the encouragement and feed back from everyone. It's helpful and gives me a different way of thinking about sorting out priorities. Again, thanks.