JM87

I'm applying for a few BSN accelerated programs at the end of the summer, figured might as well try to get into a BSN program, if all else fails the ST path sounds quite appealing.

Any advice on getting as close to surgery without being an actual surgeon? I've had my mind set on becoming a nurse eventually leading to something like an OR Nurse, but want to have a backup plan if Nursing school takes a bit of time to get into. I've looked into becoming a Surgical Tech, and in Connecticut (where I live) the pay rates seem to be higher than most areas of the country. Would I be better off just waiting to get into Nursing school and go from there?

1st time posting on these forums. I've been scouring through here for the last few months just trying to get a glimpse into what life as a nurse would be like. I'm looking to make a career change and feel nursing would suit me perfectly, however I could use some advice from current nursing students and/or nurses as to which the best route to take would be. A little about me: Age 29, Male Current career/job: Personal Trainer, I own a personal training studio Have been in fitness for almost 10 years Currently have a Bachelors Degree in Exercise Science with a 3.4 GPA Currently enrolled in some basic nursing pre-reqs and taking the next year to complete them (Ap1, Ap2, MicroBio, etc) My dilemma: Associates Degree into RN or Accelerated Bachelors Degree? My current frustration with this nursing path is trying to line up the pre-requisites with the right schools. As it stands now, I am looking at two accelerated programs (in Connecticut, Southerns ACE and Quinnipiac) as well as an Associates Degree (Goodwin College). I'm at a point in my life I really need to start saving, and working a "real" job. Personal training has been ok, but its nothing consistent and I'm ready to move on from running a business. I need something with the potential to grow and something that will keep me active. My long-term plan is to go for Nurse Practitioner or Nurse Anesthetist, so I understand I will need my BSN for either of those. However, is there a benefit to going the ADN route and go after the BSN online while working? My biggest concern is not finding a job post gradation with an ADN. However I do hold a Bachelors Degree already, and even though its not in nursing, I would hope that would set me apart from someone with just an ADN. Any advice on which path would be best would be great!