PsychIon

Hospital, why is that good? Everyone I work around has over 10 yrs experience and don't think I make a lot-but I feel blessed. I think that it helps that I offered to work every night and weekend (with few exceptions.) The shift differentials make it closer to $25...but taxes, insurance, flex plan, 401k bring it back down to just over $20. My second job pays just under $22. I'm not one to negotiate on pay either, what they say is what I get (I'll need to work on that down the road when I have more experience/leverage) but I work hard, come in often when there is a need, am flexible with working on other units. I have also worked hard to position myself where there is a need. I networked for a couple months, volunteered, got to know the different managers and learned as much as I could before accepting this position and it really payed off.

$23/hr 2 yrs exp.

Keep networking, working hard and getting good references, and studying up on your dream job and you'll get there. Personally, I love psych, have a great night job that I get all the hours I want (most of the time) close to home (ten minutes on a bike) and allows me to continue with my APRN schooling. Life's good.

No mistake. You are doing a great job at juggling your priorities. There is no reason to rush into the field, there will still be jobs in a couple years, and you are getting paid to go to school. Keep being a good mother, working hard at school, and keep your head up! You'll come out of it with a great degree, and at that time you will have plenty of time to navigate your career.