i'm a recent graduate and am seeking information on what my next scholastic pursuit could be. here is a list of my quandaries:
- rn to bsn - why? there is no motivating factor for me where i'm employed, unless i want to move into a managerial position (which i don't). been there done that...no thanks.
- rn to msn - unless it's an np the only other options that i've explored have to deal with education or administration...again no thanks. also i've heard that the np's are soon to be doctorate required positions.
- pa's - not a bad option, but bsn nurses where i'm from do the same thing. i've also heard that dr's are wanting more np's vs. pa's.
- cna's - not a bad option again; however, why not just be a real anesthesiologist. those that i've spoken to say the work is the same, but the pay is close to triple.
- med school - with the amount of time invested in a ms program, why not invest a couple of more years and be a dr.?
any and all suggestions/insight would be greatly appreciated. i fully realize the importance of interest/passion fueling motivation (especially to make a continued educational/financial commitment), which is why i've posted this question. i'm typically motivated by the practical aspect of things (if i need to do it i'll do it) and admittedly monetary as well, but i also need to weigh those against the investment of time over work. i'm looking for a direction that will provide me with the most return for my investment. i don't need to make six figures, but if i'm going to invest x amount of time i want the greatest return for that time. one last thing, i want to enjoy life in the process. i've traded years of 70-80 hour weeks for a fat bank account and it's not worth it. i work so i can live, i don't live so i can work.
OP, I was just curious, in what area are you working now? You could start off by beginning to study to be certified in your area (such as the CCRN exam). This will help you learn a lot about new and interesting information, all while helping you become a more competent and knowledgeable nurse.
I'm currently studying for my CCRN (I've been a nurse for a little over a year). I've found that by doing so, I've learned a lot of interesting things that I would otherwise not be aware.
Specializes in Management, Emergency, Psych, Med Surg.
You are brand new at this thing and trust me, you will not find your true area of interest for a while. I recommend working in several different areas for your first few years of nursing. You need to get experience in all areas to see where you fit. And you may not want management now but you might in the future. That is what happened to me.
WalkieTalkie, RN
674 Posts
OP, I was just curious, in what area are you working now? You could start off by beginning to study to be certified in your area (such as the CCRN exam). This will help you learn a lot about new and interesting information, all while helping you become a more competent and knowledgeable nurse.
I'm currently studying for my CCRN (I've been a nurse for a little over a year). I've found that by doing so, I've learned a lot of interesting things that I would otherwise not be aware.