Legal to Medical Field

[CARMENVS08]

I have been a paralegal/legal assistant for the past 13 years. Honestly, I just took that route because at the time it was quicker. I am now in a position in my life where I can go back to school to become an RN or maybe NP. I have obtained my AA Degree and took the per-requisites necessary to apply for a BSN Program. I am just a little nervous about diving into the Medical Field without the experience. Also, I have a husband and children so doing some volunteer work would be hard to squeeze in with work and school. This is something I have wanted to do since High School and really just want to make a difference in the lives of others. I have done my research and know what the job entails but reading and doing are two different circumstances. Has anyone else gone through a similar situation? How would one go about networking in the Medical Field? Any thoughts or suggestions??

[Kristenlaurenw]

I was a legal assistant for 6 years before becoming an RN about 3 years ago. At first, there were days that I missed wearing real clothes, working in an office, and not having the pressure of someone's life in my hands, but I make a lot more money now, only have to work 3 days a week, and feel that stabilizing sick patients in the ER is way more important than helping someone file a personal injury suit or get their drug conviction sentence reduced. I have a sense of fulfillment I just didn't get working in law.

[CARMENVS08]

Thanks for your feedback. I know what you mean, right now and for many years I feel like I haven't been fulfilling my duties in life. I definitely do not help those in need in this field. I can't wait to get into Nursing!!

[Sure2BaRN]

I have been a Paralegal for the past 15 years (personal injury and criminal defense) and decided to go back to school to become an RN. I did the accelerated online program at UTA and I don't regret my decision ever. I did not have experience in the medical field; however, being a nurse was something I always wanted to do and I had the benefit of working with a lot of nurses in my last job working for the state health department. The transition was not difficult at all. If it makes you feel any better, I have a husband, four kids (all in college), and one grandchild. Go for it!

[CARMENVS08]

That's great to hear!! It's nice to know that I'm not alone Good luck!

[verene, MSN]

I was an admin and paralegal for 3 years and realized the legal field wasn't for me. If volunteering or working in healthcare are not options for you at the moment I would suggest contacting local hospitals about shadowing opportunities or if any of their staff are willing to do an informational interview with you.

[CARMENVS08]

Good Idea!! I am hoping once I start my clinicals and become familiar with the area I can start possibly shadowing.

[umbdude, MSN, APRN]

I'm a career changer as well. The best way to network is to get a paying job in a hospital (preferably on a unit of specialty that you're interested in). Do whatever you can to get a job as a patient care tech, even as a per-diem. There are many benefits.

[Hoosier_RN, MSN]

Good Idea!! I am hoping once I start my clinicals and become familiar with the area I can start possibly shadowing.

Shadow BEFORE you start school. So many have a romanticized idea of what nursing is. I encourage that of everyone. Many spend the money on school then find out its not what they thought. Or can't find a job...or any other multitude of things

[CARMENVS08]

Thanks for the advice. I don't know what are the rules on shadowing but I will check at my local hospital.

[meanmaryjean, DNP, RN]

Good Idea!! I am hoping once I start my clinicals and become familiar with the area I can start possibly shadowing.

Actually- you should shadow BEFORE starting school- just to be certain nursing is what you think it is. Call local facilities and ask about this opportunity.