57+ and starting a nursing career

[kelleytison]

Hi, I'll be resigning my position as a 1st grade teacher to complete prerequisite courses before applying to nursing programs. I'm 54 and will be graduating about 57/58. Needless to say I'm concerned about employment upon graduation. Is there anyone 54 or older currently enrolled in an Accelerated BSN program or BSN to DNP program willing to share their experience with me? Your likes, dislikes, regrets, what's it like to be back in the classroom or are you completing an on-line degree? Also I'd like to hear from new graduates 57+ who have secured or are currently seeking employment? Anyone a recipient of the NHSC scholarship? Really looking forward to your feedback.

Thanks, Kelley

[kelleytison]

GrnTea, you are certainly right. There's lots to be said about maturity. It gives you a perspective that youngsters can never possess because they haven't had those experiences that only come as one lives life. Perhaps that's why students in accelerated nursing programs do well. By the time folks our age decide to get a degree, we know what we want to do, know that we don't have time or money to waste in pursuit of our goals, and we're eager to begin putting theory to practice.

[LoriRNCM, ADN, ASN, RN]

I will be 51 in May 2015 when I graduate w/ my ADN. I will then work while completing my BSN. I am a CNA in LTC currently and to be honest, if I can physically do that job, the physical demands of nursing don't put me off. I am the oldest in my class (but only by a couple years, I feel the need to add!) And all us old birds are still there after the first year so...... just sayin'........

[pmabraham, BSN, RN]

Good day, kelleytison:

Hug your husband, follow your dreams. You can do it. Ask questions, ask often, be willing to adapt and change learning styles; you can do it.

Hugs from a fellow student/career changing/hoping to be a RN one day fellow 50something.