So here's the short version. I'm disabled, narrow spine, bad hip, take narcotic medications for it, as well as anxiety problems and PTSD from the military which I take other medications for. Covered in tattoo's, big scary guy.
All of that worries me in the context of nursing - a lot. I know how disposable RN's are, how demanding the job is, and how bias your superiors can be based around stuff like this that is out of your control.
I've been into wild life and plants all of my life, I actually do independent research on fish and plants for kicks, and have been for the past 20 years - so I'm thinking about going for a PhD in Biology specializing in Herpetology or Botany rather than going for NP.
My main scare is how the job market is out there for that field of work - talking with Biologists everyone says it's not easy to find work, but once you do you're good to go. It seems to be the same with nursing right now, except you're never good to go and always have to be on your toes.
Does anyone know ANYTHING about the field of Biology versus Nursing, job prospects, etc.? I'm still in pre-reqs for my RN program and have plenty of time to think this over.
Things to take into consideration.
1. I have a family to support, we don't need to live rich extravagant lives, but I'd like to be able to put my son through college and not live paycheck to paycheck.
2. I'm good at nursing, I did it in the Army - but this was prior to all of my disabilities showing up.
3. When it comes to getting into the field of Biology I am completely in the dark - if anyone here knows anything about the process of finding work while working towards a bachelors, and continuing education funds for this line of study I'd appreciate it.
Just trying to get some feedback from you guys and girls, you've all been very honest. I love nursing ALMOST as much as I love wild life and botany, and I'm a very good nurse - despite being covered in tattoo's and disabled.
What do you think? Go for what I love, or go for what is a better guarantee for my family's well being? (although it seems like nursing is becoming less and less stable these days).