TinkRN10

This is such a personal question that is really based on trial and error. Just like buying shoes in your personal life, it just depends on your feet. Do you have high arches? Flat feet? Back problems? Personally, I have flat feet and walk quite a bit during my shift so Danskos and Klogs don't work well for me. I'm still searching for my perfect shoe Just keep safety in mind first and always make sure your shoes have good treads!

I was 38 when I was accepted into a nursing program and I DECLINED the offer. Why? Not because I didn't want to be a nurse. It was just bad timing. My children were still in middle and high school and my husband works long shifts as a firefighter. I applied again and was accepted two years later and graduated at the age of 42. It was a better decision for me and for my family. Nursing school takes a huge commitment and a great deal of sacrifice - for your mom and your whole family. Maybe you mom isn't quite ready to make the leap. I would still encourage her, show her all the posts from students who did it that were older than she is now. Also, consider the job market that you are in. Many new grads cannot find jobs (like me) and struggle to make ends meet Just because you can afford the tuition, doesn't mean you can afford to go without a paycheck. So in the end, she may have kids to feed and no job which is a great deal harder on a mom than to have a crappy job that is, at the least, an income. My advice is to support her, encourage her but don't pressure her!

Not to add to your discouragement, but I'm in the same boat. I graduated in December, passed my NCLEX on the first try in February and still have no options. Even nursing homes in my area want experienced nurses. It doesn't help that well meaning friends and family keep saying "Really?? I thought there was a nursing shortage??" If I had a nickel... Right now I'm a substitute teacher - however, I have been seeing many postings for places that work with clients with disabilities. I know this isn't for everyone, but you never know until you try and it would look better on a resume than retail since it is still in the field of healthcare. Consider also that many DD clients are pretty independent so you may be able to study some while you are at work. Always a plus! Good luck. Personally, I have days when I'm ready to walk away from the thought of nursing all together. :uhoh21:

Keep in mind, some colleges do not transfer in you GPA. I know Frostburg does not. Also, if you happen to go back to your initial college they may offer you something called "amnesty". You would have to speak to an advisor about this and apply for amnesty. The college basically wipes out failing classes from your transcript which then, of course, bumps up your GPA. Good luck!