Totally confused - Nursing vs. Teaching

[2ndLife]

I just got my acceptance letter for nursing school. The next day I got my acceptance letter for a Master's teacher certification program to teach Biology. Now I'm not sure what to do. I'm starting to do a "Pros and Cons" list for each and hoping that will help. One of the biggest factors to consider is my age. I'm currently 54 years old. I already have about a year of education classes that I will receive credit for. Therefore, the certification program will take me just a bit over a year. It will take me 2 years to complete the ADN program. Both professions can be physically and emotionally demanding. I'm too old to make the wrong choice and start over again with something else so I have to make the correct decision. Any thoughts?

[work&play]

Biology is a great teaching field and the demand is high. Depending where you decide to work, it will make a BIG difference. If you want to teach high school Biology, you'll most likly enjoy it, and not a lot of energy is required.

If you end up teaching in a middle schools. Keep in mind that the students don't get to pick their courses, there're required to take the sciences, so you'll teach the good, the bad and the ugly.

I just completed my 15th- year working in schools. My last two years were as a substitute teacher in science classrooms. I think I hit the burn-out period, and since we're considered laid off because of the district's reduction of force, I'm so happy not to be in the classroom.

Nursing requires a load of energy as well. I just completed a CNA program that I let lapse after going in the classrooms. I just feel like I ready to do nursing because I want something different. Listen to, and follow your heart. Good luck!