Published
Hi everyone! I started school to get a BSN at age 26, I was just wondering what a "realistic" age is to go back to school if I did in fact decide to pursue becoming a NP.
How old were you when you started?
Started my MSN last May at age 22....will graduate this upcoming May (2014) at age 24. My birthday is in July....hopefully will pass boards prior to that so I can say I was an FNP at age 24. LOL it was the same with my BSN program graduated in May at age 21, passed boards in June.[/quote']Almost identical for me!
Finished my Bachelors of Psych at age 22.
Finished my LPN program at age 24.
Finished my AAS in nursing at age 25.
I knew I was going to go for my NP as soon as I graduated with my AAS. I figured I'd go back either quite soon (age 27 ish). As the years passed, I decided I'd go back when I was 35 or so. Life happens. I worked as a RN for 4 years before I hurt my back, was eventually let go from my job due to injury and went back to school for my NP at age 30. I'll be finished this spring - age 33.
I do not know your situation (family, finances, etc) but I recommend going back as soon as possible. The only thing I regret is not going back sooner (BSN-21, MSN/DNP-FNP- 26). You can always work and get experience as you go to school. If you are able to go back to school now then do it. Time is going to go by no matter what you do. :)
just keep swimming
172 Posts
I decided at 32 and will finish when I am 34. I am glad I took the time to do 6 years of nursing before moving on. The experience has been very helpful in school!