What are some of the pros/cons to using the military as a way of becoming a nurse? Most likely the army or air force.
Anybody out there who has gone the military to nurse route? What was your experience? How many years did it take you? And what committment did you have to make to the military? Would you do it again?
Here's what I can come up with so far:
Pros: 1) Tuition repayment 2) career training and experience 3) some type of housing downpayment? 4) a possible sign-on bonus?
Cons: 1) 3-4 or more yr committment 2) Possible deployment (as a solider or as a nurse? Im not quite sure, but deployment as a nurse...I think I could live with that) 3) Post/base placement may not be ideal 4) Salary (I've been told it's low?)
Specializes in ED. ICU, PICU, infection prevention, aeromedical e.
I went enlisted route for 3 years. GI Bill! Got my degree and nursing experience. Now I'm headed back in (Hopefully!!! grrrr! waiting.). lol.
As far as the physical stuff: I HATED that the army told me what shape I had to be in. I hated being at weight. However, I am now on my own more active and a gym rat than when I was in. I can pass all the PT tests and find that this is the shape I want to be in, not the shape they tell me to be in.
I got out also because I didn't like someone telling me what to do all the time.... I still have that in civilian... it's called a boss and a job. :)
midinphx, BSN
855 Posts
I went enlisted route for 3 years. GI Bill! Got my degree and nursing experience. Now I'm headed back in (Hopefully!!! grrrr! waiting.). lol.
As far as the physical stuff: I HATED that the army told me what shape I had to be in. I hated being at weight. However, I am now on my own more active and a gym rat than when I was in. I can pass all the PT tests and find that this is the shape I want to be in, not the shape they tell me to be in.
I got out also because I didn't like someone telling me what to do all the time.... I still have that in civilian... it's called a boss and a job. :)