Is nursing your second career?

[nicubee]

I've read several threads about people with degrees and established careers in another field completing their pre-reqs and applying for nursing schools. Most writers on these threads seem so excited about their career change and anticipate that they will finally achieve their dream job. I am also planning a career transition to nursing and am hoping to be accepted for Fall 2011.

I'm would like to hear from those of you that already completed the transition to nursing as a second career. How old were you when you changed professions and how long have you been practicing as a nurse? Has it been all that you expected?

[jpw4200]

I don't know if this thread is still alive, but I've really enjoyed reading al of your stories! I am in my 40s and applying to accelerated BSN programs. My first degree was in finance, I worked for about 12 years in buying.merchandising for a large chain of stores. I then stayed home with my kids until they both went to college. I've been taking my prereqs, which I enjoyed more than I thought I would. I was just accepted to one school, and am waiting to hear from the other. I have heard lots of horror stories about older students going back to school and having a really hard time...must admit, that makes me nervous! Anyone have any input on that? Thanks!

[jpw4200]

crittytn-

Wow- It sounds like you have done a lot! My background is a bit different, but it sounds like we are in similar situations. Do you know any more about schools yet? I thought maybe you had applied to some between your post and now. How are prereqs going? I just finished up...weren't too bad!

[rmtocc]

I don't know if this thread is still alive, but I've really enjoyed reading al of your stories! I am in my 40s and applying to accelerated BSN programs. My first degree was in finance, I worked for about 12 years in buying.merchandising for a large chain of stores. I then stayed home with my kids until they both went to college. I've been taking my prereqs, which I enjoyed more than I thought I would. I was just accepted to one school, and am waiting to hear from the other. I have heard lots of horror stories about older students going back to school and having a really hard time...must admit, that makes me nervous! Anyone have any input on that? Thanks!

Im enrolled in a CC ADN program and there are quite a few of us that are not straight out of high school. ALL of us (young ones included) are struggling right now. Most of us work, have homes, significant others, children, pets...all of which are being neglected right now. You will definitely have plenty of classmates to relate to! Just hang in there, it will be tough, but it will be worth it in the end!

[jpw4200]

rmtocc- Thanks for your encouragement! I feel a bit rusty, but I'm sure once I am immersed in a program it will feel more "normal". Good luck in your program!

[darbyspinx]

Hi, not sure if you are still active on this site, but I am a mom of two kids (3.5 yrs and and 8 month old), and considering going to either an accelerated BSN program or to an Entry Level Masters program. I don't want to be away from my baby though, so I will do prerequisites until she is at least 2 yrs, maybe 2.5 years. I'm really concerned about the stress of nursing school on my full time mom duties, which I love and take seriously. We have never had a nanny nor have we done day care, just preschool for my son 9-3pm starting at age 3. The preschool has an all day option that a lot of kids go to and actually love, but I am hesitant about making the transition to being away from them so much. Do you also have any advice about actually making the transition to nursing as a second career? I was premed in college, got a BA in anthropology, went to film school, and became a yoga teacher. I'm interested in working with new moms, lactation, postpartum, and possibly going for NP. Would really appreciate any advice you have. I'm in LA.