I am seriously considering quitting nursing school. Just the amount of times that I have met with advisers to consider other career paths is already an indication of how much I want an out. A lot of what I have read recently says "Don't quit nursing school just because it's hard or stressful! Stick it out; it will be so worth it!" The problem is, I don't want to quit because it's hard. I enjoy the challenge, and I am an intelligent student with awesome grades. I never have a problem with the information/lectures/exams. In fact, that is the only part of nursing I enjoy. I like the theory (learning about bodily processes, diseases, OB and women's health), but hate the practice. I also did well in clinical, so this has nothing to do with my "performance" in the program. I just feel out of place in clinical.. I dread it every day and am so relieved to go home afterwards and not see the hospital for a few days. I used to work as a PCA in a children's hospital - thought I would LOVE it. I really didn't (again I felt out of place); I dreaded work and hoped I would see as little patients as possible. I feel terrible saying that, but it's just how I feel! I don't mind helping people, but I really thought I would feel different! I see other students getting so excited over landing their dream PCA job; and I don't want anything to do with a PCA job. I have a different job currently in a private practice, where I do mostly office work and interact with mostly healthy patients. I do enjoy that and definitely do not dread coming into work.
I have 2 more years left in the program. I either stick it out and "force" myself through the motions, or take a year off and think about what other careers I might enjoy.
Should I take the break, seeing as I am not passionate about this career?
Thank you for the posts and all of your kind suggestions! I still have not decided. I know it is not for me, but maybe it is worth it to get the degree and have it as a back up. Or maybe I will find my niche in nursing.. I guess only time will tell.
Hi Lovlina, I am in a very similar boat! I also get enjoyment from the academic part but nothing but horrible fear and anxiety from the clinical experience. I am 2 semesters from graduation and am freaking out. I am going to stick it out because I have spoken to advisors as well and have concluded that it would be a huge wast of money to do otherwise at this point. I really am worried about finding a job afterwards that I can even stomach. I have no idea what I am supposed to do but pray! I certainly hope that things work out for you. Maybe you can continue your education to include a specialty. I am certainly considering this as an option. I just keep telling my peer that "I am just going to keep on going to school until I dont have to touch anyone!" I am not entirely sure that this is realistic, but I mean it, Ill do ANYTHING! it fills me with wonderment that my fellow nursing students seem to get such enjoyment out of performing clinical skills..... I guess it takes all kinds!
lovlina
6 Posts
Thank you for the posts and all of your kind suggestions! I still have not decided. I know it is not for me, but maybe it is worth it to get the degree and have it as a back up. Or maybe I will find my niche in nursing.. I guess only time will tell.