Leaving current career for N-school

[TINK808]

I got in n-school back in feb and am am excited to start in Sept . My employer is not flexible in scheduling so I will have to quit my job to go to school. Our nursing school doesnt offer part time or evenings. I was fine with quitting fulltime work when I got admitted, but as I get closer to start of school (and giving 2wk notice), all these fears are popping up. I'm walking away from job Ive been on for almost 10yrs and pays comfortable wage for part time wage during n-school that barely squeaks me by for next 2yrs. Plus, Ive gotten mixed opinions on nursing careers lately.

I know in my heart I want to be a nurse but walkin away from a job with with so much vested into a new career venture at 40 is scary. Can anyone give me their . Thanks

[DA314]

While I'm on the young side (24), I am also leaving a good paying job for nursing school (if I get in). It's scary. I have a husband and a mortgage to worry about, and we cannot live on one income. Not looking forward to scrimping by again (like we did when DH was in college), but that's life. I am, however, convinced that I'm going to be spending so much time studying my but off that I won't have time to go on shopping sprees, so I won't miss it as much. I debated with whether to go into school for a long time, because I hate the idea of taking out loans and living poor for 2 years. But this is something I really want. If I continue to waste my days at a job that is mind-numbingly boring, I will hate myself for it.

Also, the best things in life are always a little scary... marriage, children, switching careers, moving to a new city. If they weren't scary, they wouldn't be so special when we achieve them!

[OnTrek]

I just finished nursing school and have been working as an LPN while studying for my RN boards. I left a career where I made more money than I will as an RN. But I have enjoyed my new career as a nurse so much more than I ever enjoyed my career in resorts. The process has been very humbling - going from a career where you are comfortable and are the authority on most subjects to being the novice that knows virtually nothing. But working with the people has been so rewarding and fun - It is worth it. Take a deep breath and take the plunge. There are always student grants, and loans. Apply for every piece of financial assistance you can and you can always pay the money back later. I've survived on very little these last few years (had 2 pairs of shoes fall appart on the same day - guess it's time for a job so I can buy new shoes). But It is amazing what you really can live without. And help comes from the most amazing places. My best friend sent me a check out of the blue - saying I was an inspiration to her. An ex-boyfirend also sent a check out of the blue saying he admired what I was doing and that he knew I needed to spoil myself on a splurge. You will be amazed at what happens when you follow your heart and let the rough edges just sort themselves out. It has been an amazing, frustrating, and humbling journey. And I wouldn't change it for the world. As the saying goes - It's about the journey not the destination. I was completely debt free when I started nursing school. I'm now $30,000+ in debt (including the medical bills from an urgent unexpected surgery with no insurance) and I couldn't be happier. Good Luck!