Oldest in cohort...feeling out of place

[melc0305]

I know there are a lot of threads on allnurses regarding age and "it's never too late" etc. I think that is why I assumed it would be no big deal going back to school at age 40, into an ABSN program where everyone is at least old enough to have one degree.

Today was orientation and out of the 32 in our cohort, I was the oldest. I got excited because there was a lady close to my age, but one of the students just brought her mom with her! lol. I just felt out of place and was really doubting myself. I can't imagine having much in common with most of these students, let alone fitting into a study group or a group project with them. I was just bummed by the orientation and wish I could be more excited about my decision.

[chuckz, BSN, RN]

I was 35 and male when I started......still male. I had a son who at the time was 2 when I started. I had the time of my life. I enjoyed making friends. I did not feel I "stood out" or didn't fit it all. I would drink with my friends and would hang out them at the end of the semester. I worked full time and also did nursing school full time. It was doable and I really felt as if my class didn't make that destination of young or old. It was all about being a good person a good friend and a good student. Time of my life.

[Boxer Mama]

I am pretty sure I was the oldest taking the admission exam (I am 36). Also, as I sat in the waiting area of the school, I am still pretty sure I was the oldest. But, I was told that 30's is the "normal" for this school, but I guess we will see. In my CC for my prereqs, my age did not matter. I had study groups with people over 10 years younger than me, and I am still friends with them. I think you are as young as you feel!

I am substantially older than almost all of the folks with whom I work, most of whom are in their late-20's, while I'm just South of 50. (I was 45 when I became an RN.)

That's part of what I like so much about my job. My circle already has plenty of middle-aged contemporaries. I am energized by youthful energy with which I'm surrounded each night.

I love working with younger nurses and docs!