Should I go to Nursing School?

[dudetheman]

I graduated with a bachelors degree in Biology. I got a job with this company through networking with friends/family and I do not see myself doing this for a career since I've always wanted to be in healthcare. I applied and was accepted to a Nursing program which will take me about 2.5 years to complete. I was ineligible for the accelerated program since I did not have all the pre-reqs. I've been applying for hospital jobs as an aide or secretary in different nursing units but haven't had any luck. Also I have seen that many RN jobs require at least 1-2 years of RN experience...which as a future grad I won't have. I am worried if i go into this field, I won't find work, as with my biology degree, it feels like I'm taking a risk since I'll be adding more debt to what I already have. Our Dean even told us their really is no real nursing shortage, since hospitals are cutting back and RN's aren't retiring due to the recession. My question is are job prospects getting better for new grad RN's since the recession hit in 2008? will it be better in 2014, when the new healthcare bill takes into effect. I did apply to Physician Assistant programs but I have only received rejections. I feel the job prospects in PA are better/ more secure field since their aren't many PA's in the workforce, but I would be happy working as an NP since they seem to have a bit more autonomy. Any of your personal experiences feel free to share. Thanks for any advice/info.

[musicpirate]

First off- you most likely wont get accepted in PA school because you only come from a Biology degree... its not like you have a healthcare background (not to mention i heard everyone and their mom is going to be a PA lately). Everyone wants "experience" either when it comes to applying to a grad school or for a new job. Which brings me to the other part of your concern.....

Any job... any occupation wants experience. Even as a nurse, PA, MA or whatever they want someone who isnt fresh out of school. So no matter what you will hit that odd job of your 1st year just to have something under your belt. Nursing student often do like school Nurses... or longterm care. Yes- its probably going to feel like you arent getting paid enough and you degree was a waste. But EVERYONE does it.

The nice thing about becoming a RN instead of a PA is just general oppertunity. As a RN you can really do anything...24/7 RN on the phone for Insurance companies... RN for longterm care in assisted living homes... RN for jails and prisons...RN for rehab centers (the way bath salts and all this crazy **** is going those are going to get pretty popular). A priviate nurse for the elderly. PA's might not have all that. Yes they could do it.... but it would almost be like selling yourself short.

[k_girl153]

I know a few people who became PAs with a bachelors in biology...my cousin being one of them. I believe most want you to have some sort of clinical/pt care background.

As for experience....we all have to start at the bottom. U learn to get the experience where ever you can. Becoming a PA will not change that.