I'm getting discouraged about going back to school for FNP

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I've recently made the decision to go back to school for my masters in nursing to become an FNP and I'm really excited about it. I just graduated with my BSN and recently started a job in the ER.

All through nursing school we were constantly encouraged to continue our education. The FNP program I'm applying for doesn't start til January so I would have a year of experience under my belt before starting my masters and plan to work while I'm going to school. The program allows plenty of time for this. I think it's a good idea to go back and continue this while I'm young, before I get married and start a family.

However, my place of work seems to really discourage their nurses from continuing education or getting any other certifications (such as CEN). When quite a few people in my orientation stated they wanted to be NPs the faculty response was "geez we're going to lose all our nurses. you need experience, you shouldn't go back for 5 years." It really discouraged me and I think it's going to look really bad if I can't find anyone from my work to write a letter of recommendation for me. 😕 Any advice?

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Specializes in Critical Care, Education.

Have you looked at the employment projections for FNPs? They are not so rosy in many areas of the country, particularly now that ACA changes are in question.

I tend to agree with your advisors - it's too early in your career to figure out exactly which direction you may want to travel. Maybe you will discover a real passion to quality and patient safety. You could have stellar talent for leadership that will only emerge with some experience. Don't lock yourself in to something that may not be your ultimate goal.

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Thank you for your input! I appreciate all the advice I can get. Where can I look at employment projections? I've been reading with the shortage of physicians, the need for NPs is high.

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