Should I do a nursing major or go to undergraduate medical school in Europe?

8 Posts

I am finishing high school. I have finished a course at a community college near me to become a nurse's aid. I am a male. I have American and Irish citizenship. I am debating about what to do after I finish high school. I can major in nursing and keep living in the united states. My other option is I can go to medical school in Ireland or the United Kingdom for not very much money since I am a citizen. Medical school there takes four to six years (usually five). Most people start when they are about 18 or 19 years old. I have lots of family living there. I have done some research on my options. I am worried that if I were to go to medical school in Europe, I would have trouble getting an internship or residency in America. I have heard it is difficult for people who go to medical school abroad to get into more competitive specialties or get jobs in big cities. I am sure I do not want to be in the most exclusive specialties, but I want to be able to get into the specialty I want. I am also worried I would be unable to take the stress of working endless hours as a resident. Most of my family members are nurses or therapists. So I know what I am getting myself into. I really do not want to be a "workaholic". I recently heard of a couple programs in New York, where you get a bachelor's degree in physician assistant studies. Would that be a good option to consider also? I thought you needed a a masters to be a PA, but I could be wrong.

If you have any advice, tips, input, or ideas I would be delighted.

Thank You.