Should I Become a Nurse?

[thyme-is-honey]

Hello Everyone,

I am a 28 year old who is considering making a transition to a nursing career. This is a completely different path than the one that I have been on. I have my B.S in Environmental Science, taught environmental education for years, and then have been a classroom teacher for the past five years.

At this point, however, I am not feeling as though I am doing what I am truly meant to do. I love working with my students. Nothing makes me happier than our personal connections, but I do not love the work itself. I have been considering going back to college for sometime. Initially I considered the educational or environmental field, but I have not necessarily found career happiness in either field, and have also not felt financially secure in either field.

Upon reflecting and thinking about all the things that make me happiest, I keep coming back to those times where I have worked with people, made them smile, answered their questions, encouraged them, or listened to them. I don't mind rushing around and working hard - that is what a teacher does 24/7! If I am doing something meaningful, I am glad for the work. Therefore, I am now considering getting my ADN in nursing (and then going for my BSN). I'd love to focus on becoming a Childrens Nurse based on my background.

I would greatly appreciate everyones thoughts on this. Is it too late to switch careers yet again? Can I support myself in the nursing field? Is it challenging to find and get jobs? Is it just a job.. or do you find it to be more than that?

As a final note, I have heard and read that people recommend shadowing a nurse. How would I go about that? Can a member of the public who is not enrolled in a program ask for such a thing? It seems to me that this might be an issue, but I am curious to hear responses.

Thank you so much for your time and feedback!

[heartnursing]

The facility I work at would not allow job shadowing.. weird.. people always say to job shadow but I have never heard of the public being able to... I feel like its a urban myth.. lol

Anyways, I feel like you have great characteristics to be a nurse. I have 1.5 years experience in the neonatal ICU and its has been by far the most rewarding and most difficult 1.5 years I have ever gone through. Just make sure you are prepared for the worst of the worst in terms of what you will see-- sad horrific situations you WILL be in, if you can accept that then I say go for it! Also I would strongly suggest getting your BSN. I just relocated from Canada and I was so nervous at the job market however I have been offered three positions all in specialty areas ( ED & NICU) I feel my BSN has really helped me! so if possible go for BSN.

[lyou]

You can shadow thru volunteering, apply to a few local hospitals. Each hospital has its own requirements to become a volunteer some might ask you to take quizzes other have immunization done(which is free), etc. One you are accepted, volunteer at the ER. There you will see many nurses and patients, doctors, techs, etc. It would be a great experience. Also don't be discouraged by volunteering requirements such as a minimum of 100 hours, etc. I saw some volunteers show up for a few days only and drop it. Best of luck in your journey. If you consider accelerated program keep in mind that some require prerequisites.