Sir, I'm 52 and have been a nurse for over 25 years! I love it. It's my life! My vocation! Yes it's tiring, can make you want to scream, and very hard emotionally, but I wouldn't swap it. Honestly, I don't think you have the empathy needed! Maybe that's why you became a teacher - it's easier!! Regarding nursing, I feel that a heart felt need, (and want) to help other people is a must!! It has certainly helped me when I've been "persuaded" into doing back to back shifts, totalling sixteen hours!! My heart is in it!! Please don't take this the wrong way; but you sound like you're considering doing nursing only because of the money you can make from it! If that is the case, then it's going to be hard for you! I am telling you this to help you; not for any other reason. Okay. This is in the wrong thread! Disregard what I posted! Thank-you.