I am in my late 40's and have been a CNA for over 20 years. I have always had the desire to go back to school for the RN degree. I have been raising children and working part time for 28 years. I always knew that I did not want to stay working as a CNA for the long term.
Would like to hear from others who went back to school for the RN degree later in life. I am planning on obtaining the associate degree first, and then the BSN later. By that point, I will be in my mid-50's. The trend seems to be for nurses to have their BSN. Would you do it again? What are some things to consider?
Ladies! I hear so many asking am I too old to get my RN-BSN degree, if it is any consolation I am 59 years old and have one pre-req. before taking my TEAS TEST; YOU CAN DO THIS.
Let's see....I've been in Healthcare for 10 years. I've worked in Long Term Care and loved it. I started my journey in nursing when I turned 38. I am currently in a BSN program and I am 40. My thought to you if it's your dream age shouldn't matter. I just recently read on here that someone is starting a nursing program and they're 51!!! I would say go for it!! You don't want to spend your life wondering what would have happened if you had tried......good luck to you!!
I hope your not. I'm 47, will be 48 this year. I'm getting ready to take the plunge into a LPN nights and weekends program. After that, a bridge program to RN. I'll be in my 50's when I get my RN. I have to keep working to provide for my family, so I can't go straight into a daytime RN program.
If nursing is what you love to do, then I vote go for it:) I didn't have a family while in nursing school, so I don't know that I would have any useful input on that aspect. But maybe this Scrubbed In post would help? The nurse they interviewed worked as an RN for 15 years before returning to school for her BSN.
If you have the money and time, do it! What could it hurt? If it doesn't work out, at least you know you tried. I know a woman at Washington State University's nursing program who was 55. I know several others who are moms of teens, 40+ and in the program. Good luck to you and follow your dreams.
My good friend applied and is working on her RN in the same program with me -- she's in her mid-40s and a single mom to three teenagers! I think she'd tell you it's been a challenge on so many levels, but also a dream come true, and to take the leap!
I'm 38 and ready to begin my pre-requisites. I'm so glad I have this summer off and I can just concentrate and getting back in school mode. I know it will be challenging with a family but I know it can get done. It's awesome how age is not stopping anyone. So true years always pass us by so let's do what we want!
Go for it!!!! Seriously, how many times have you said you would like to go back to school in the past 15 years? Do something for yourself for once and sign up for any class just to get the ball rolling. You will be surprised how much you enjoy school.
I am 47 and have just got accepted to the ADN program at BCC. What I did, and what I would recommend is getting your pre req's out of the way before applying for an ADN program. I did exactly that and also took classes that will count toward my BSN at UMass while waiting. It really is never to late.. I am an older student but you will be surprised at how many people our age are in school. After doing knuckle dragging jobs up to this point I am lucky to just concentrate on school right now. My kids are older and understand the time commitment it will take for me.
My advice is start with a couple of pre-req classes (A&P or Chem, I loathed Chem and my instructor but got through it). That way you will get a feel for what your in for. Then get your ducks in a row during your time leading into an ADN program and dive right in. I can't speak for others and I know it sounds mushy but I truly want to help people. If I can help one person it would all have been worth it.. I have not done anything yet though and still have to get through school and the NCLEX.. Good Luck to You!!!
I say do it! I was 40 when I decided to go ba k to school, mother of three I had to postpone my education to raise my children. Once they graduated from High School I said to myself, ok, now is my chance. I started majoring in Social Work but I was doing so well that I changed my major to Nursing. I'm not going to lie, it was not easy, but with my hubby's support and faith in myself and my capabilities I finished my pre reqs last December. I've been accepted to a ADN program starting in the Fall. My children and husband are proud of me and I am happy I can show my family, specially my children that when you set yourself a goal and work hard, anything is possible. If you have the energy and the desire. DO IT! You won't regret it. Good luck!
I'm 39 ...will be 40 in October. I started my pre-reqs in Jan. I work full time so I will be slowly tackling all the classes. As others have said you don't want to let years go by and wish you had went to school. Just Do It!!!
I am 44 soon to be 45 and will be applying to a program this fall. I have been working on all of my prereqs at a community college which is the right speed for me. Smaller class sizes, closer commute, smaller campus. I now feel like I have out grown it and am ready for university. I will be going for my BSN as it has been told to me by several employed nurses that it is going to become the norm. So, to keep myself in the running I will take the plunge. These nurses also say that they would much rather work along side someone with life experiences. I wish you all the luck in the world with your decision. :)
Tiffin
2 Posts
Ladies! I hear so many asking am I too old to get my RN-BSN degree, if it is any consolation I am 59 years old and have one pre-req. before taking my TEAS TEST; YOU CAN DO THIS.