Should I follow my heart?

[idamy]

(I'm from Denmark, so sorry for any possible misunderstandings) I'm in high school. Recently I've strongly considered becoming a nurse. It's never been something, I've considered before (I didn't think of it as an opportunity). It's something so out of my comfort zone. But yet, there's something about nursing, that draws me in.

When I was 8, I started writing. I thought I'd become a journalist/writer. I do love to write, but it's not something I want to make a career of. But my parents and teachers kind of decided for me - journalism. It's the obvious route. I felt fine with it. I didn't love the idea, but at least it's something I like doing. But lately, something's changed.. I was watching TV, when some random medical drama came on. I immediately connected with the nursing profession. It was like the world broadened, or something. Like I finally got a pair of glasses, and I could see clearly. I instantly wanted to be a nurse. It feels right. But I'm afraid, I'm not cut out for the job/education. I've never been good at science or biology, and I'm not the most hands-on person.

I've read a lot of discussions on numerous sites, but they all give me different answers. So I'm hoping someone out there can help me. Should I go for it - follow my heart? Also, have any of you been in the same situation - and what did you do? (Sorry if this sounds confusing. I feel confused.)

[mrsboots87]

Honestly, only you can make this decision. There is a lot of hard work that goes into getting into a program, then the program itself is rigorous. But if it is truly something you want to do, then it will be worth it. One thing to keep in mind is that the TV shows are NOTHING like real nursing. TV glams up medical careers because no one wants to watch what really goes on in a hospital. You get violent patients, all kinds of just nasty everything on you. Vomit, feces blood, you name it. Not everyday is a nasty day, but it happens. If you are unsure, start with a CNA. Most schools don't have any sort of waitlist and only require basic prereqs. You could probably get the pre reqs and CNA course done in a year. Then work while you take the rest of the RN program pre reqs. This will give you a small taste of what it would be like to be a nurse so you can get a better grasp if you really connect with nursing or not. You don't have to be the smartest person, or the best in science and math. You just have to work hard to learn the material and be able to think like a nurse. GL in what you decide

ETA: ALso remember that because you just recently decided nursing is for you, it may just be a fad. I mean no offense in this, but you are young. In highschool you will fall in and out of love with a lot of things because of you maturity level and brain development (not a bad thing). So before you set in anything in stone, really think about it for a while.

Also, if you school offers off campus ROP class, see if they have a CNA course or something similar. Then it will be a free class that will count as highschool credits and you can start working fresh after highschool graduation to see if this is really for you.

[ShelbyaStar]

I am kind of the same way. I've always been extremely good at reading, writing, spelling, art, etc. Science is just "ok" while my math skills are below average. Yet I feel I can be a nurse.

I have a previous degree in science. I did find to my surprise that the brain seems to reroute itself when you expose it enough. I have become more analytical. Science comes easier and my writing hasn't declined but has become more succinct and businesslike. I don't think I'll ever be good at math, but I'm better than I was- by the way geometry and trigonometry come to me much more easily than algebra. I should've just skipped algebra in the college setting. I think a lot of artsier people find it easier to make sense of spatial and visual math.

In the end it's up to you. Like the previous poster said, you have plenty of time and you may just be enamored at the time. I would focus on science and math heavy classes and start volunteering at the hospital to see how you like it. Good luck!

[iheartcats]

I think you should definitely research the career and take steps to find out more about nursing! You have plenty of time; I am now 25 and just decided to do nursing after earning a degree in music! The truth is, it's hard for all pf us to decide what we want to do. Now, I wish I had followed this path sooner. It's just hard to make this kind of decision in high school because you have limitless options open to you. I will say though that I believe that if you want a career that offers mental stimulation, challenges, advancement, plenty of jobs, and financial stability, nursing would be great! There are many advanced practice nursing roles that you could attain, too. You will definitely find your niche if you look!

[HelloWish, ADN, BSN]

My opinion is that you should go for your dreams but have a back up plan. If you connect with nursing, then it is worthwhile to explore. There is no reason that you cannot have both options in your future at your young age. Becoming a nurse doesn't mean you cannot become a writer too. You could minor in English or journalism while getting a degree in nursing - it is just a thought!

Becoming a nurse is hard work and requires dedication! I agree if you are in high school, I would look at any programs offered at your school that get in the healthcare system getting experience to see if it is something you would truly like. Otherwise, I would seek out volunteer opportunities over the summers before starting college.