Try corrections or stay in school?

[TCNurse86]

Hi,

I'm an LVN and I have an interview at a CA prison in a few days, but I'm undecided if I should consider going this route or just stay in school.

I've had my license for about a year now, but have only worked for a couple of months in LTC, and that was over 9 months ago. Since then I have been pursuing my RN, but I still have at least another year to go before I can apply to any programs.

I'm 23 yrs old, and my parents have been supporting me while I get my education. They feel that I should get school out of the way now because the longer I wait, the more difficult it will be. I'm very grateful to them for making it easier to pursue my goal, however I can't help but feel like I'm wasting my current license by not working. The chance to work in corrections doesn't seem to come along too often, but from what I've heard, it won't leave much time for school in the beginning.

My question is, would this experience be worth putting off my educational goal for a while, or should I just stick to school for now? I know I haven't even been offered the position lol, but I'm very confused right now and any input is really appreciated.

[JDCitizen]

School, school, school...... Your parents are right. I did a little college in my younger days and put it off; it was a good long while before I was able to get back in. Life can and very well will get in the way of going to school if you put it off. If your parents can and are able to help be thankful and take them up on it. Don't consider the year of waiting a waste put it to use part-time work, college core classes.... If you can't find part-time nursing work that won't interfere with school make school your total focus.

[TCNurse86]

Thanks for your reply...

I've decided to keep school my top priority right now. The more I thought it over, it just seems like the best thing for me to do. I won't have this opportunity forever!

As far as the interview goes, should I keep the appointment? I don't want to waste anyone's time, and I'm 100% sure I wouldn't take the job if it will interfere with school. But anyone know how flexible correctional facilities are with their employees who go to school??

[Orca, ADN, ASN, RN]

If you aren't going to take the job, do the employer the favor of canceling the appointment. As far as flexibility there normally cannot be much, unless it is a per diem position. The first responsibility of the manager is to provide adequate coverage, and the needs of nursing students are often incompatible with that goal.