Scared but Determined...

chicagoing, ADN, RN · Jan 2, 2011

Hi there. I am also a somewhat older student (30s) and I'd recommend obtaining CNA certification and working PT or FT as a CNA while taking the pre-reqs. I have my certification but have yet to pursue a job as a CNA. From what I hear, even though CNAs do not have the same responsibilities as an RN, at the very least you can get some clinical experience under your belt (and perhaps feel more comfortable once the nursing clinicals begin).

boston13 · Jan 2, 2011

also working as a cna while you're in school can help in getting a job once you're done. in addition to experience you'd have access to internal job postings and have the opportunities to make great connections.

good luck!

DoingGodsWork · Jan 3, 2011

Hi, I am an older student myself (30's) and I was in your same position. I went back to school after a long break and thought it would be hard to get back into it. It was easier the second time around. I wasn't very focused and didn't know what I wanted when I was younger. I now have much more dicipline and know exactly what I want. I will tell you, a little determination goes a long way! Once you set your mind on what you want nothing can stop you. There are a lot of young students in my classes but there are older students too. It feels wonderful to go for something you really want. Working as a CNA is a great idea while you got to school. I'm going straight for the RN. I just got accepted to a nursing program at a community college after completing prereqs for a year and a half. I chose not to work now because nursing school is very demanding and I have a young baby so almost impossible for me to work full time and go to school full time. But you can do it all! Focus on your goals and go for it, sky's the limit...Good Luck! Nothing to fear but fear itself

halkogirl · Jan 3, 2011

I am 30 and I am starting the nursing program in 8 days (AAAHH!!). You can do it- I find that now that I am older, I am way more organized and focused than when I was 18. And I personally think that all nurses should be CNAs first- you will appreciate your support staff much more if you have been in their shoes!

Southern Magnolia · Jan 3, 2011

I started prerecs 3 years ago when I was 30. I've been taking one or two classes at a time and will hopefully starting a BSN program in the fall. My only suggestion is to stay organized and on top of things. Eventhough I have two small children and an active life I have found school easier this time around than I did when I got my first degree. Maybe it's because I'm not taking five classes at once but I also think my age has something to do with it.

I got certified as a CNA but haven't worked yet. I'm trying to get on with a hospital PT as a PCT though. I'm hoping it will help me get a job once I'm done with school and also help pay for some of my schooling through tuition reimbursment.

Best wishes,

dreamer827 · Jan 3, 2011

Thanks so much for the advice and please keep it coming! I can't even describe how nervous I am. But I know what I want and I'm going for it!!

NewSN13 · Jan 3, 2011

Congratulations! I think you've gotten through one of the hardest parts which is deciding that this is the career you want to pursue and enrolling in classes. I'm 31 and I hear some variation of the following all the time, "Good for you. I'd love to go back to school but..." Making the decision, following through and finding a way to make it all work, even if you have a lot of "buts," is great!

In my classes, there are a ton of non-traditional students. I was worried about being the old lady but I am far from it! And like others have mentioned, the life experience, maturity and determination are some of the most important factors in being successful. Since you'll probably take classes that a lot of other pre-nursing students are taking, it's good to find a solid group of study buddies early on. This spring will be my third semester with the same lab partner. In all of my classes, I have people who can help me out in a pinch, like sharing notes if I have to miss class, and I'm more than willing to do the same.

Music in My Heart · Jan 3, 2011

31 isn't, ahem, *older.*

In my class, you had to be tipping the scales toward (or past) 40 to adopt the *older* label.

How to get back into it? Work your butt off.

dreamer827 · Jan 3, 2011

31 isn't, ahem, *older.*
In my class, you had to be tipping the scales toward (or past) 40 to adopt the *older* label.
How to get back into it? Work your butt off.

I found out today that mid-thirties is the average age of the students where I'm going. I have to say a lot of my being nervous was because I was afraid that I'd be the oldest student in class lol!!

AlixSN · Jan 3, 2011

I'm not older (20) and I'm actually one of the youngest in the class. In all honesty as a younger student you often have a harder time. Less life experience, straight out of highschool, ect ect. You'll have a great time, age really isn't something that should matter :)

Tricia76 · Jan 4, 2011

I'm 34 and I'm going or should I say trying to get into a community college nearby.