Is This A Good time to Start Nursing School

[lana2010]

I just got accepted to an accelerated nursing program that starts this fall of 2009. I already have my Bachelor's degree in Biology. I contacted the director of the nursing program and she stated that most students do not work during the accelerated nursing program because it's such a rigorous program. I currently have an 8-5 job that has absolutely nothing to do with my degree, but it is some income coming in at this time, and I know that if I go to nursing school I would have to quit. My question is- would it be smart to quit my job during these desperate economic times to start nursing school? I also wanted to know how is the job outlook for new nurses during these economic times? I really want to be a nurse, I knew before I got my biology degree, but when I decided to do nursing I only had one semester left to complete my biology degree. Please help I just don't know what to do. Any comments would be greatly appreciated.:wink2:

[cclem1]

HI Lana,

No problem. I hope that my experience can help you in some way. It's been quite the learning experience for me. I did use my bio degree for a few years after I graduated. I worked in a research lab (which I hated!!) and then I worked in a clinical lab that did genetic testing. I did enjoy that job for the most part. I've always wanted to work in healthcare, originally I wanted to be a doctor, but didn't end up going that route. Anyway, hopefully I'll be an NP someday. Good luck with whatever you do. Since you've wanted to be nurse for a long time and you have a solid science background, I'm sure you'll do great in the program. I attended the orientation for the program I was going to begin but didn't, and they said that the only undergrad degree that can really prepare you for how difficult a nursing degree is, is a science major b/c of labs, etc. Good luck!

[lana2010]

With the economy being in the state it is in, if you had to start a 12 month accelerated nursing program in July 2009 or Jan. 2010, which would you do? :heartbeat

[cclem1]

If it were me, I'd start as soon as possible. No one can predict anything that's going to happen. I don't think there will be a big difference between July and Jan. I would definitely get a job as an aide after you're done with your first clinical or so and hopefully that'll help you get your foot in the door somewhere once you're done. Also, don't wait to apply for new grad positions until after you're done and passed the NCLEX. I know I haven't even started school yet, but I've been doing my research for years!! I can't even wait until September to start (hoping I even get in). Anyway, good luck. I know its a tough decision, but if nursing is really what you want to do, everything will work out!

[HM2VikingRN, RN]

july 2009... The economy will start moving up again starting in 2010. You want to position yourself for when the job market starts to reopen...

[SweetLemon]

I choose to work all through nursing school full time and loved it. Gave me a chance to be productive and yet do something completly non-school related, a nice break for my mind. I will never forget my pre-nursing interview when one of the directors told me to plan on giving up pretty much every other aspect of my life for the following few years "its like being in the army, we will own you". :icon_roll Ganted, I was single with little responsibility outside work and school but a good majority of my nursing school friends worked and went to school simultenously as parents and spouses.