Grad level: Do i go NP or Leadership?

[njxcrush18]

Hi kids...

I'm presently in an NP program doing all those basic core classes that everyone has to do regardless of what program (which equates to research research..theory...research ;o) it will take me 5 years to finish.

but i've recently come to question my decision.

i love bedside care....but cant do it forever. my back is already sore, the physical demands are too much, and nights are killing me (and my health). switch to days sounds simple...BUT...the drop in pay would make me do more OT than i do now. and honestly...i aspired to go on to grad level study.

my question is....rather hoping for some input or guidance...

i love interacting with people. but i also love being a leader. and SO MUCH bothers me about the way things are run...that i feel so passionate about...and want to go into leadership/admin. bc thats how i can create change.

i feel there is more room for advancement in the profession with a degree in leadership/admin....but then i get away from patient care...

and well...i need to be at a point where i'm more self sufficient (student loans into 6 figures). and i feel that im penny pinching as is....that a leadership position will allow me to do what i love...be a nurse, make change, and actually live life rather than sit on the broke sidelines.

i'm at a point where i realize what i love...but also realize i need to be smart and think about my future. and i would intend to be a very hands-on-manager. so....hmmm...

i would love to do both but at this time in my life it doesnt seem possible. or rather swtch and reapply in teh future as an np?

any input?

[UVA Grad Nursing]

What type of leadership are you seeking? Do you want to lead people and resources (as a DON, Administrator, or manager)? In this case, a graduate degree in nursing administration or management makes very good sense.

Are you more interested in managing care (making nursing more outcomes-based, effective, efficient, and with better uses of technology? If this is the case, I'd recommend that you look at the new Clinical Nurse Leader programs.

Another track might to become a nursing educator and assist in preparing the next generation (or two) of nurses. Nursing education can be very rewarding, and often involves a 9-month contract (with nights, weekends, and summers off).