Should I? Why not!?!

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Specializes in Critical Care Nurse.

I start my first set of prerequisite on tomorrow. I have no previous college credits. This is totally new for me. However, I'm no newly high school graduate either.

I'm 29 years old. I've worked as a CNA/PCA for 9 years. My dream was to become a RN then later a NP. I know many nurses due to my work. I'm very aware of the stress of nursing school.

I'm married with children. My job has downsized. I am now part-time. I've been granted financial aid. I would like to do work study, because I can use the money. I feel like I'm a bit too old to do work study.

Is there any non-triditional students who have participated in work study? If so, how was it? Did you feel out of place?

I do plan on doing work study regardless of my own shame and insecurities. It would be great to just hear from others.

Thanks in advance.

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Im 31, and started college at 28, I have been a work study student for almost 3 years now, and my supervisors recognized quickly that I was not one that was 'learning to work' and I could work solo. My supervisors are always praising me, and let me run solo almost all the time which is something they didnt do for the younger candidates. I say do it, it has been a great experience for me and I wish I didn't have to leave, been offered full time employment if I wanted to change and no longer do nursing, but I'd rather stay with nursing. :)

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Specializes in Critical Care Nurse.
Im 31, and started college at 28, I have been a work study student for almost 3 years now, and my supervisors recognized quickly that I was not one that was 'learning to work' and I could work solo. My supervisors are always praising me, and let me run solo almost all the time which is something they didnt do for the younger candidates. I say do it, it has been a great experience for me and I wish I didn't have to leave, been offered full time employment if I wanted to change and no longer do nursing, but I'd rather stay with nursing. :)

I feel better. When I hear the words work study I think of an 18 year old. What department did work in? I'll be in the financial aid department. I was looking for a spot in nursing, but they're full.

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I work in Facilities, Maintaince and Construction. There are 18 year olds but there are plenty of older students. Financial Aid usually wants older students aswell I worked there during 2 summer semesters not as a work study student, but as a student assistant hired by the school. Don't let your age be a con, it's a pro as you will most likely seen as more reliable, punctual and mature.

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Specializes in mental health / psychiatic nursing.

I didn't do work-study, but my husband did as a non-traditional older student (mid-twenties, married, prior work experience). He had a job doing data base entry for one of the departments on campus and was the only student worked in that office. Most of his coworkers were in their 30s or older and appreciated that he had work experience and life skills behind him.

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I didn't get to do work study, but I did apply for it. My school was small and didn't have a lot of openings plus I got a good bit of financial help so it was tough for me to get in. I'm 26 (24 when I started nursing program) and a nontraditional student (married, kids, commuter).. don't let your age or circumstances hold you back from something that will benefit you!

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Specializes in PACU.

I'm in my 40's. Went back for my RN, I did a work-study. I loved being on campus and working with the traditional students. I loved their energy and outlook on life. I just remembered not to tell them how to do their job. I was there to work, not be their boss or mom, and everything went well and I made some new friends.

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Specializes in Critical Care Nurse.
I didn't get to do work study, but I did apply for it. My school was small and didn't have a lot of openings plus I got a good bit of financial help so it was tough for me to get in. I'm 26 (24 when I started nursing program) and a nontraditional student (married, kids, commuter).. don't let your age or circumstances hold you back from something that will benefit you!

I appreciate your advice. I am one who always tend to feel out of place in many environments. I'm sort of an introvert. I can also be a little prideful. With that being said, I have to do what I feel is best. Inspite of my decrease in income.

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Specializes in Critical Care Nurse.
I'm in my 40's. Went back for my RN, I did a work-study. I loved being on campus and working with the traditional students. I loved their energy and outlook on life. I just remembered not to tell them how to do their job. I was there to work, not be their boss or mom, and everything went well and I made some new friends.

Great! That's good to hear. I'm very self reserved. I do tend to get alone with just about anyone. I enjoy giving straight forward advice when asked. I have such a big heart for people.

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Specializes in NICU, adult med-tele.

My mom did work study in her early 50s! She was assigned to the financial aid office. She made some good contacts there and was hired by the college after graduating.

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