FT Mom, FT employee, going back to school

[hollyhark]

I work full-time currently and have 2 beautiful daughters. I am now finally realizing what I want to do as a career which is nursing. However, I question if I can do this. I know at some point I will have to cut back work to make day classes that are needed but it scares me. Am I going to be able to give what I need to my family while getting my schooling done? I cant just rely on the husband to make all the money and take care of the kids. He works 24hr shifts and on his part time job he works 8-16hr shifts. I really want this but dont know if I can. I want to but I wonder....

[pookabeary]

I am 36 years old and I have 3 kids and I am going back to school in the fall. I am just beginning because I have to take so many pre reqs and I am really worried too! I am a cna also but I don't plan on working while I go to school. Its going to be a huge sacrifice but worth it! good luck to you :)

[cainca]

You have received very good advice here so far. I, too, am a mother (and now a Nana of 4) and work full time. My classes are on the weekend and evenings so it makes it easy to attend. However, this fall, I will have to quit my job to concentrate on the BSN program. I want to give you advise that someone gave me when I asked the same questions you are asking. First of all, let NOTHING stand in the way of your dream. You CAN make time for your kids and family and still excel in school. Remember that this situation is only temporary and when it is over it will be SO worth it. The other important thing to remember is that your family loves you and if they are supportive of you and what you are doing, they will help you make it work. There will be some things that you miss but you can make up for it later when it is conveinent for you.

I miss my husband so much because I barely see him because I am either at work, home or studying. I make a special time for him on Friday afternoons. We don't talk about anything but us...even if it's just sitting on the couch holding hands. This seems silly but it works. It's a break for me and it helps me focus on him. I don't have small children but the advice you've received is great regarding them.

Things always work out in the end. Check with your school or ER friend...you may be able to work as a PCA (patient care assistant) after you finish a specific course (usually Medsurg) in nursing school. Hospitals usually help cater to nursing students because they understand their schedule is hectic and sporatic.

Good luck with everything! Let us know what you decide!

[LMQuerubin823]

It is really nice to know that we are not alone out there! I am also a mom with a husband and a 4 year old daughter. I am starting my pre-req's next month and currently do not hold a Bachelors in anything else so I am starting fresh. I currently work full time and we have actually moved in with my mother in law to save our rent for me to be able to attend school full time once I get into a program. I know it will be hard but the end result will be so fulfilling. I cannot wait to see my baby girls and husbands face when I walk across the stage!! Good luck to everyone on the journey. No matter what age or circumstance, nothing can stop you if you really want it.

[gottagetmyrn]

You can do it! Just believe in yourself and go from there!!!!!

[peachshan, BSN, RN]

Ummnasim, I am a teacher too but I've always wanted to be a nurse. I applied to a BSN program and I'm waiting to hear if I'm accepted or not. I am thinking about getting my CNA certificate this summer too:) I was a" CNA years ago. What grade do you teach? I'm praying I'm doing the right thing too especially since I have a family. Good luck!

I teach special education. The majority of my students are in wheelchairs and have intellectual disabilities. I already feel like a nurse working with them! So is this your last year teaching?

[Lola34]

I hope so. I'm waiting to get my acceptance letter. I'm in a second grade inclusion class.

[senmarley]

I am also working 45-50 hours on weekdays full time and 14hours part time on weekend.. I am doing 2 classes this semester ... Psychology and sociology.

[leekaye]

Lots of working moms on this board. I'm 48 with two moody teens, 30 hours/week job and a husband who travels out of town. Somedays I feel like I'm always running from 5am until I crash at 11 from utter exhaustion. I've posted on this board about being tired and overwhelmed and these great people gave me encouragement.

Usually a college will let you drop classes within a certain period after starting. If you find out that you've taken on too many classes, maybe you can drop one and try stretching out your time. Also check out ratemyprofessors.com to see what others say about the class workload that each professor assigns. It's helps to try not to take all the hard ones at the same time.

Good luck!