I'm 32 years old and pregnant with my 5th child. I've been on food stamps most of my adult life as well as having used up my 5 years of welfare. I'm sick of being poor. So while this is something I want to do, it is for the money as well. I've always dreamed of being a midwife but thought I would love to start out with nursing and then be able to provide for my family. I want to be able to send my kids to college one day. My grandmother was a nurse and I've been told by many people I would make a great nurse. Blood and poop do not bother me.
I want to start next fall when the baby is old enough to be away from me. My partner is being supportive.
My main concerns are: spending 4 years in scool (2 years to do the pre-req)
Not being able to find a job here on the Big island of Hawaii
It would be impractical for me to move my whole family somewhere else.
Anyone else have similar experience or any advice?
All things are possible through christ!! I have four children and I just graduated in August and just passed my nclex September 5th!! If this is what you want then go get it!! Don't let anything or anybody stop you!! May God bless you!!
Age means nothing! Happiness in life and being able to provide for your family is what is most important! I am in my 40's, had my grand baby dropped off on my door step at the age of 4 months! I have now graduated nursing school with honors. She is only 2 1/2 now, but what a great example for her to see that Grandma went back to school after 40, because it is never too late!
I went back to school when I was 40. In fact, I'm still in school... I jokingly say that I spent the last decade with my nose in a book (well, only halfway joking).
I don't recommend anyone begin nursing school at this time. Not that your age has anything to do with it. It's the economy and the fact that you need to work, really need to work. So, having just said that, your time is not as lengthy as the 20 year olds starting out, to wait for the job market to open up. Sad but very true now. Remember, some states will prevent your licensure if you are in school loan debt.
I would seriously talk to many nurses (not online) and maybe some occupational therapists too. Ask how many new nurses are being hired where they work, etc. Find out so that you understand, truly understand that there is no nursing shortage. Don't make your decision off of a bunch of people saying sure! you can do it! (always means you are not getting advice, just a pat on the back).
If you do go into nursing here is a big tip: Don't tell your Peds or OB instructor that you know a lot about having babies and taking care of babies already...
"If you do go into nursing here is a big tip: Don't tell your Peds or OB instructor that you know a lot about having babies and taking care of babies already.."
I don't recommend anyone begin nursing school at this time. Not that your age has anything to do with it. It's the economy and the fact that you need to work, really need to work. So, having just said that, your time is not as lengthy as the 20 year olds starting out, to wait for the job market to open up."
Well what was it like 4 years ago trying to get a job?
What will it be like in 4 years?
Do you think it might get better?
I've been reading about how the healthcare industry is going to be hiring more nurses as the babyboom population ages. Maybe this is just hype but I have read that it is supposed to get better. It's hard to think about it not getting better, and harder to think it might get worse.
If its something your passionate about you can do it! I've seen a few nurses that go into work just for the paycheck and its sad how it effects the patient care.. But being genuinely interested in this profession (like you :)) then go for it!! It'll be hard, but 5 kids is probably no pick nick either at times.
32 is incredibly young. There is no reason you should think you are "too old" to start a nursing career. Even if you can't get started with prerequs until you're 33, do that for a year, then follow it up with 4 years of school, you'll only be 37 years old and be a RN BSN!
I can't help but smile when I read all these posts of people in their 30s who think they are "older students". I went back to college in my 40s, now am starting nursing in my 50s and there are always people in my courses who are older than I am.
Think about it. At 37 years of age you will still have about THIRTY years left in the workforce! There's no reason not to spend that time as a well paid nurse instead of poor and unhappy.
"I'm 33 and will be 34 by the time I start the program, 36 when I'm done. It's all good. I'm gonna be that age regardless of what I do in life, I'd rather be that age and BE in the career I want! Good luck to you"I like the way you put that I am 33 and was thinking I am to old to go back to school and start over .
mom_coach_nurse, LPN
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