Should I be afraid to be a nurse because English isn't my 1st language

[007Bonita]

Hello, I'm 23 years and I'm a single mom of a 2 years old girl. I want to become a nurse, I was thinking to become a LPN first but the program is already close for this year, so I might start taking the prerequisite including chemistry and biology. But I'm a little afraid because English is not my first language. I consider myself as a good and smart student but I'm not confident with my English. It is difficult the nursing program? Is the language a problem? Tell me your experiences please and thank you.

[MedicalPartisan]

No way! I work with two or three nurses who speak English as a second language! And yes, sometimes we have to pay close attention to understand the accent but it doesn't get in the way of anything at all. We don't even think about it; we just (subconsciously) have to pay close attention sometimes. This should be the LAST thing you worry about. Good with pursuing your future career!

[mrsboots87]

No need to be worried. You will just need to make sure you are having someone proof read any papers you actually turn in for correct grammar an such, but in many programs, there aren't many papers to write outside of care plans. English doesn't need to be you first language as log as you can effectively communicate in English. You first language may even be a benefit when searching for employment. There are a handful of students in my class whose English isn't perfect, and they are doing fine in the courses.

[007Bonita]

Thank you