Published Nov 14, 2006
Elizabeth Hanes, BSN, RN
14 Articles; 297 Posts
The first question I had when I visited these boards, and a question I've seen posted since, is: I want to go into nursing, but I have no prior healthcare experience. I have worked for (insert number) years in (insert field, such as administration) but have never worked in a healthcare environment. Can I still get into nursing school?
That was my situation, and I am excited to say I DID get into nursing school! I got my acceptance letter (for an accelerated program) yesterday. So, to all of you who come to this board seeking answers, my advice is: don't let the lack of a healthcare background stop you from applying for nursing school.
I spent over 20 years in administrative support jobs, but I always wanted to become a nurse. At 45 years old, I feel a little ridiculous expressing how very excited I am to be embarking on this new career path, but... I AM!
Thanks to everyone on these boards who has offered advice and support, both on- and off-list. I think of you all as friends.
catzy5
1,112 Posts
The first question I had when I visited these boards, and a question I've seen posted since, is: I want to go into nursing, but I have no prior healthcare experience. I have worked for (insert number) years in (insert field, such as administration) but have never worked in a healthcare environment. Can I still get into nursing school?That was my situation, and I am excited to say I DID get into nursing school! I got my acceptance letter (for an accelerated program) yesterday. So, to all of you who come to this board seeking answers, my advice is: don't let the lack of a healthcare background stop you from applying for nursing school. I spent over 20 years in administrative support jobs, but I always wanted to become a nurse. At 45 years old, I feel a little ridiculous expressing how very excited I am to be embarking on this new career path, but... I AM! Thanks to everyone on these boards who has offered advice and support, both on- and off-list. I think of you all as friends.
Congratulations that is fantastic!!!
I can't wait for the day I get that letter!
EricJRN, MSN, RN
1 Article; 6,683 Posts
Congratulations, semisweetchick! You definitely have a good reason to be excited!
stpauligirl
2,327 Posts
I never had science experience other than what I learned 30+ years ago in my native country, I also never had any experience in the Medical field before signing up for nursing prerequisites and I am A'cing these classes and usually have the highest test average. I have applied to one nursing school so far. I don't let prior experience intimidate me anymore.
Many times I scratch my head wondering what is going on with people who are in my classes and are emplyed in medical professions or have Biology degrees and end up failing. You did it, you got in! congratulations and good luck in your future.
SummerGarden, BSN, MSN, RN
3,376 Posts
Congrats! :biggringi
BeccaznRN, RN
758 Posts
What wonderful news! I would be worried if you weren't as excited as you are - you waited a long time for this opportunity. Go shout it from the rooftops!
Galore
234 Posts
Congratulations, and thanks for the encouragement!
kalmeira
82 Posts
That's great! Congratulations. I had a group interview today, and one of the fellow interviewies asked me if I have ever worked in health care, and I hadn't. I felt like I got this look like 'are you crazy, you expect to do this with no experience?!' He told me about all his experience, and I felt so inadaquete. Thanks for the encouragement.
Thanks, everyone, for the congrats. I'm still on cloud nine.
Kalmeira, you can do it. No matter how much experience your fellow interviewee has now, at some point he started with NONE. That's where we all start. Good luck!
Tweety, BSN, RN
35,413 Posts
Congrats and good luck! :)
Mom2J&B
23 Posts
WOOHOO that is great, I am 43 and just embarking on my pre-reqs, thanks for the motivation!!!
bearsden
22 Posts
Congrats on the letter!!!
Mom2J&B, my wifey and I are both 40 and in our prereqs. I am glad we aren't alone.