I have seen TONS of people who have said "nursing is my second, third or fourth career." As I have become more and more curious I was wanting to start a thread to see what areas and walks of life all the nurses and student nurses had before embarking on this incredible medical journey.
I will go first.
I was a TRUCK DRIVER prior to being a nursing student..
NEXT.
I am excited to see what you all did in your PAST LIVES>>>>>
In high school I worked for my family at a real estate office and managing a mini-warehouse facility.
In college (while studying International Business and French), I worked in my school's International Education office, as a Bridal Consultant (telesales for a DJ company), and as a waitress.
Lived in Korea for 1 year teaching English to kindergarten and elementary kids.
Worked 4 years in a non-profit international agribusiness development organization in Washington, DC.
Decided I was bored with an office job. Found my passion. Am finishing level 2 of BSN program. Am happy and excited!
I was an assistant manager at a retail store and volunteer with St John (ambulance service here). I knew I couldn't work in retail forever, it bored me too much. At least in nursing I feel I'm fulfilling my potential (yes even on those crazy busy, hectic stressful days) and it might be cliche, but at least I feel like I am making a difference now. I know this is the right career for me!!
Thank you to all for posting and for those who are still posting. This is a fun thread that I have been thinking about for awhile. I really enjoy seeing others like me, who chose later in life to be a nurse. I am actually quite surprised at the number of those who went straight from high school or shortly there after to nursing.
Keep those posts coming...I have yet to see a prior lawyer or police officer. I am SURE there is one out there.
At least in nursing I feel I'm fulfilling my potential (yes even on those crazy busy, hectic stressful days) and it might be cliche, but at least I feel like I am making a difference now. I know this is the right career for me!! 
APBT mom, LPN, RN
717 Posts
Before I decided to be a nurse I worked at:
a pet shop
a pizza slinger at Little Caesars
a telemarketer sold cell phones, direct tv, magazines, electicity for ENRON, credit cards
cleaned houses
patient sitter
medical assistant
now I'm just a student