Older Nursing students

Hi, I just turned 42 and was accepted into the lpn program starting in Aug.. My kids are grown (at least they have moved out and think they are). Now it is my turn to further my education. My rule is to do everything just the opposite as I did in high school. It is working great for me so far. Nice to meet my fellow non traditional students.

I am finishing up pre-reqs and applying to an RN program for the fall - I wonder how many of you are out there that are non traditional nursing students - I have a feeling I may be the oldest nursing student on this site.:)

I am a guy, 58 years old, and I am in Block 2 of nursing school right now (ADN for RN). You don't say how old you are, but my belief is that you are never too old

I'm 30 but by the time I am done I will be 33 unless I decide to continue on and go to university. I know I'm not going to be the oldest though as I do know a few people that are going into the nursing program and are either my age or in there 40's. I don't think many younger people get into my program as the grades you need to obtain a 97% in your pre reqs as it's a high demand course, so many students are forced to retake courses to up their grades.

tex42cares

It's for the MAC. I love them. Once you go MAC you never go back!

I am finishing up pre-reqs and applying to an RN program for the fall - I wonder how many of you are out there that are non traditional nursing students - I have a feeling I may be the oldest nursing student on this site.:)[/quote

I'm 31. I've been working since I was 14. I think I'd make a good nurse and I think it's something I could tolerate too. I worked as a CNA for some time.

I'm not the oldest in my class though - a lot of people are going into nursing because the economy tanked and is getting worse.

I'm 53 and trying to enter the nursing field. I've already completed my pre-nursing courses and I'm now awaiting a response to several universities that I have applied to. Nursing has always been a lifelong dream but with personal issues and raising kid and grand kids my dreams were somehow pushed back. Now that I have all the time in the world to concentrate on me and my late life goals of becoming a nurse, I must admit my age may be an issue but I still want to fulfill my dream. Any advice would be appreciated.

I'm 53 and trying to enter the nursing field. I've already completed my pre-nursing courses and I'm now awaiting a response to several universities that I have applied to. Nursing has always been a lifelong dream but with personal issues and raising kid and grand kids my dreams were somehow pushed back. Now that I have all the time in the world to concentrate on me and my late life goals of becoming a nurse, I must admit my age may be an issue but I still want to fulfill my dream. Any advice would be appreciated.

Well, congrats to you for finally getting to do something for yourself. I have been an RN for over one year now and can say that it was challenging but well worth the pursuit. I too am middle-aged and want to encourage you to not think of yourself as old! When you start nursing, you'll see what I mean! I have met many 50 somethings that have just graduated. I know of a 58 year old man who just graduated! I also worked with a 65 year old man who has his LVN, but wants his RN. It's time that stereotype of nurses are buried! I've met 270 pound men who are nurses. The women I've met in nursing are good people. I will warn you though, if you haven't been an avid reader over the last few years, like I wasn't, it will be difficult on your brain for awhile. My head hurt and I needed relaxation techniques to ward off anxiety. I took ativan for a short time too. But I also met wonderful people who were all in the same boat as me regardless of age! The job market for new grads was not good, but it will be by the time you graduate! Also, I've met some wonderful people that were patients of mine and they encourage me with their resolve under difficult circumstances. Good luck on your adventure!

The wait will just make your success that much more sweet!

I live in the country so there is no way I can go to school in the city right now. I have been doing an online course to become a Nursing Attendent. I am almost finished. I have a job working in a group home and I have an interview with the local hospital this week. I am hoping to gain some experience and the money I make will just go back into my nursing education.

Im going to start doing Practical Nurse courses in January as they can also be done through distance study. Then once my children are grown I can take the time for myself to go to the city and FINALY go for a bachelors in nursing.

Forget age --- its just one factor of many. A word of advice --- do EVERYTHING you can to avoid identifying yourself as a "new nurse". Unfortunately, nurses do tend to eat their young and when you say "new nurse" - they hear "FRESH MEAT"! Use your age to your advantage - for all anyone knows you have been nursing for yeeeeaaaaarrrsss!

I am 51 and starting my first day of nursing school tomorrow!! I started my pre-reqs when my younger son was a sophomore in high school giving myself 3 years to complete and be an "empty-nester" when starting nursing school. After much blood, sweat and tears I did it!! I should be graduating as an RN at the age of 53 and don't plan to stop there!

Good for you Danaat4 ! I don't know you but I'm rooting for you in your endeavor. Thanks for sharing your plans and goals, they were greatly appreciated.