Nursing or counseling degree?

Published

Hi all--

I'm a mid-life career changer, and really want to work providing valuable service to people and make adifference in folks' day to day experiences. I've been seriously considering both a masters in counseling, or a direct entry nursing program (I have a bachelor's degree).

Counseling appeals to me as being less of a jump from my first degree, but I wonder if it's really difficult to find work. On the other hand, nursing is very appealing but I worry about the physical demands as I grow older (already mid-forties--will be in my fifties by the time I finish pre-reqs, school, etc.)

Any input from those of you who have worked in both fields?

Thanks so much for taking the time to consider this!

Deborah

To answer the last 2 posts--I passed my boards in 2/06 at the age of 57--this is a second career for me and this is my first job out of nursing school. My prior experience was as an insurance agent for the past 25 years. I had done some volunteer work in crisis intervention hotlines and hospice, but had no experience in a crisis intervention unit or in social work.

At my second interview, I was told "Your age will be an asset here as well as your life experience". I feel sometimes that I am more of a MOM and my experience there covers raising 4 children. Presently on the unit is a little 5 year old who calls me "Grandma" which I also am.

There are days where I don't want to go to work--I just get tired and want to garden or lay in the sun, but overall I feel blessed with this job. There are occasional "take downs" but they are few and far between with a lot of help. I plan on doing this job until I am unable to work any longer.

If you wish to PM me, feel free. By the way I work in northern NJ.

Bernie

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