Starting Over...How do I start?

[scoobiesue]

Hello,

I need some help. I have always wanted to be a nurse, but have worked in Accounting for the last 15 yrs. I was recently laid off and decided this would be my chance to do what I want to do. I'm 38, do not have an undergraduate degree (I do have 60 hrs of college) and I do not know how to get started. I would like to get a BSN and I'm very interested in being a CRNA.

I need advice on how to get started. Should I go to a community college or University? I did talk to a counselor at a community college but they weren't very helpful. I don't know who to talk to so I can get the correct and accurate guidance that I need to pursue this.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Wendy

[philanurse74]

It doesn't really matter where you go, you can always get your BSN after you are working a bit. Go wherever you find openings and affordable tuition, and a supportive environment. Ask to shadow someone so you can decide for yourself if this is something you would enjoy before you start school. It's a wonderful, crazy, heart-breaking and -making job we have.

[cheertt2]

You should try to talk with another college counselor at the community college to get a better understanding of what it is you need to know. Also try talking with current students enrolled in the college. You are also on a great web site, allnurses and you can find great information on here. I would also get a list of prorgams that you are interested in and sign up for open houses, information sessions, and be a subscriber to their web site for any updates that they may have. Although I am younger than you, I am in the same boat. I want a career change and so I am starting now to do some research.

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

find out what it takes to be a CRNA in your state. Then talk to someone in a school that would educate you for that role. For instance, in my state an RN who wants to work as CRNA must be RN first, then work in critical care at least two years. So I would talk to anyone who can get me in RN school. If money is an issue go to a community college to get ADN. If you can afford one more year then get BSN as the trend is to accept more BSN prepared into programs. The real issue is getting the RN experience, and you can do that with either degree. In fact, you can get employer to pay for BSN perhaps (and maybe even CRNA if you sign contract to work over certain period. Just get out there and ask questions.

[springfieldrn]

An Accredited school is the best. If you choose a non-accredited school you won't be able to work in another state without taking their boards. I agree with seeing a different counslor. You could also call the local nursing colleges directly. It all starts with the prerequites which are less expensive at a two year college.

[LetsTeach09]

I'm in the same boat as you are...except I'm in Teaching and want to go into Nursing.