50 and making a dream come true.

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I have attempted to get into nursing some 15 or so years ago. I wanted to be a doctor growing up, but once I realized the amount of schooling it requires, I decided nursing is the next best bet. I got thru most of the pre-reqs and then found myself having premature babies and it was just too much stress. I quit and waited for life to settle down. That time is now! I am a bit worried about my age and getting hired after school. This is a main goal as part of my bucket list. My husband is now diabled and its my turn to give back. I want this..I can taste it! As a youth I don't think I took school seriously, but I know this is a new beginning for me and my husband. My question is; is a age a major issue, when it comes to accepting people in the nursing program? Or does grades speak for themselves?

45 here and starting nursing school in the fall. You ladies inspire me and give me hope. Hopefully we can stick around here and keep each other motivated! We can do it.

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I'm 45 now and will be applying in January. I'm terrified. I have worked so hard and it just seems like I'm never going to get there. How is it going Evening_Primrose? Is it harder than you imagined? Congrats on such an awesome accomplishment!!!

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Thank you! You give me much hope and I'm not crazy picking up my dream and going for it. :nurse:

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I am 60 and have been a nurse for 2 1/2 years. I was terrified to go back to school at my age and I could not have done it without the support and encouragement from my family. I worked for almost 2 years as an aid while in school and I credit this with my being hired on as an RN after passing NCLEX. It is hard work and many times I wanted to quit the program, but my husband or daughter would give me a pep talk and back to school I went.

So glad I stuck it out. Nursing is the most rewarding career, and I wouldn't change a minute of the journey. Follow your passion, and buckle your seat belt. It's a rocky ride, but worth every minute.

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Specializes in Career changer.

Age is relative if you are determined, then go for it. I've had so many set backs related to taking nursing pre-reps and applying. That will not stop me. I plan on applying (finally) for fall 2017 at the age of 38. It can and will be done..

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Will be graduating from nursing school in about a month and I'm 48. I will admit that learning is a bit hard than when I was 20. You should always follow your heart and don't let age get in the way. I say go for it.

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I was in manufacturing for 20 yrs. After yet another layoff, I decided it was time for a switch. I started prereqs at 49 (having never stepped foot on a college campus) and at 50 started the RN program.

Do I feel old sometimes, you bet. Do I get treated differently than the younger students, yes, but not usually in a bad way. I think I get more respect from the instructers and fellow students just due to age and life experience. The only classmates I think do not feel that way are some of the male students for some reason. It might just be my imagination, but I get the feeling they aren't particularly welcoming to "an old lady".

It is no cake walk but it is such a great experience!

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I'm 45 now and will be applying in January. I'm terrified. I have worked so hard and it just seems like I'm never going to get there. How is it going Evening_Primrose? Is it harder than you imagined? Congrats on such an awesome accomplishment!!!

I didn't have any problems at all with my prerequisites, but we'll see how I do in actual nursing school. I start this fall and I'm nervous, but very determined. I hear people say "I hope I can make it." but I truly have developed the thought "This is it, there is no failure." and I hope it carries me through.

Fingers crossed for a January acceptance for you!

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I am 60 and I graduate next month.

Each nurse has her own set of strengths and weaknesses. For example, I think that what I may lack in speed I more than make up for in patience. We all just need to find a place where we can make the most of our unique gifts.

You can do it! Good luck!

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No they can only look at your grades. Good luck with your dream 😊

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48 and in my last semester of the Associate program - working as an LPN and looking forward to more school after my daughter graduates!!! Carp diem!!!

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In my case, my age (53) has had both good & bad aspects. I'm in my 2nd semester of LVN school; as far as the school was concerned they were (and are) glad to have me. A's & A-'s scholastically, and working hard on my bedside skills. Some issues with a few of the students, but nothing a brief chat with the administrative staff didn't correct... ;) In any case, don't let your age fret you none; it's quite do-able. Gotta get back to work, Pediatrics and Cardiovascular beckon...

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