Need Some Encouragement! I’m Going Back To Nursing School

[Tenacious Me]

My current employer is going through major reconstruction” and my department is on the chopping block for layoffs. Although it's sad, I'm excited to take this time to finish my BSN.

I only have to finish four classes before I can start the program. So what's the problem? I'm the breadwinner in my house and I'm concerned about how to make ends meet while I'm in school - paying the mortgage, daycare, etc. I've stopped and started a couple of times because of my home life in the last few years and I also have a little one at home who needs me. I feel like if I don't sacrifice this time now, then I'll never get it done.

I work in UM and I've always been lucky with finding really good paying jobs. If I start a new job, I'm afraid I'll be stuck and unable to see this through. In a nutshell, I don't want to look back on my life and feel bad for not following my dreams because I was afraid I wouldn't be able to pay the bills.

[emayevee]

I graduated with a non-nursing BS 6 years ago and started working for a really big/prestigious hospital in Health Admin. I always wanted to go back to school, but I was happy where I worked and generally liked what I did. After working there for 5 years, & my pre-reqs were expiring, I ended up having to really reflect upon how long I saw myself in that position. There was no room for growth, and I really did not see myself doing it long-term. I also work to support myself (although I'm not married and don't have a child, I also don't have any other support) and was also terrified of not working. I decided to do it, and have now been in my program for a year. It's financially tough; I'm living off loans, but definitely doable. You always have loans (of course spend responsibly) and can work a few days a week if possible, but don't work just to live. You want to look back and feel proud of what you've accomplished & feel fulfilled, not look back and be happy that you were able to pay bills. Hope this helped!!