career change to RN- new grads response 2012 & experience

[CAREER CHANGE- TO RN]

Hi ,

I am considering career change to become an RN, I have a full time job in a dental office and its a fine job, but I don't see myself advancing or my extra efforts being appreciated in current job. I have heard so many good things about career as an RN, But When i read several post here i was a little discouraged about new grads not being able to find work. I live in Capital area, ny. I am thinking of trying to get into a associate program at hospital. What are thoughts of all the new grad RN'S and all other experienced RN, Will it be worth spending the time and money for me to change my career. I love to help people but at the same time I also have a lot of reponsibilities toward my family. I am really confused should I take a chance with my FT JOB - change to new career with question of furure job for RN'S.

All response will be really appreciated. I need some help..

[dhusc1228]

I thought the same but since my best friend got her ADN I figured there would not be the job market would be open. I went back to school in 2003 and got got done with my basics in a year and a half. Then I waited for 3 semesters to get into the program. 800 applicants for 40 slots. During the time I was waiting I talked to friends that were in administrative positions CNOs and was told that the future was going to be the BSN. So I began to to work on my other courses required. I got in within 4 times of applying. That was in 2008 and had to take a year off because of my health, the death of my brother, a divorce and other reasons. I just graduated in Dec and took my boards Feb 6th and passed. I had wanted to move to Dallas to be with my son as he went to college but am running into problems with the new grad being 44 and having no experience as an RN. Right now I have applied with every hospital, nursing home and rehab, even talked to headhunters and nothing. Yet those same hospitals here I could use those same friends to get me right in. What I am saying is really talk to those hospitals in your area now or where you want to go and see if an ADN will be enough to get you where you want to be. Hope this helps.

[KSGMaine, ASN]

I worked in insurance for 20 years and wanted a career change, always thought nursing was a good profession too. Took me 6 years to complete, going part-time, plus waiting to get into the program - graduated in May 2011. I had a very difficult time finding a job and only got the one in our major hospital because I knew someone! Seriously thinking about going to work in a doctors office for quality of life, no weekends, holidays, nights, etc. I would do some soul searching, nursing school is tough, the job market is tough, and hospital nursing is hard to say the least. Not to discourage you, but I also hear where dental assistants, hygenists, etc. are in high demand - are those jobs you would be interested in? Just a thought given your experience in a dental office already.

Good luck with whatever it is you do!