What health career should I choose?

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I'm currently a freshman in college and I'm trying to decide what I should declare for my major. I'm stuck between becoming an occupational therapist, nurse practitioner, registered nurse, and physician assistant. OT, NP, and PA all require a master's degree while I would get a bachelor's degree for an RN. I'm getting 2.5 years of college paid for so I'm willing to get a master's degree. I just want a job that makes me feel like I'm making a difference and helping people. If you could choose one of the four which one would you pick and why? Or do you know someone who has that job and do they like it? Thanks!

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Specializes in Acute Care, Rehab, Palliative.

You cannot become an NP without being an RN first. You would also need some nursing experience.

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Ortho, ASC.

I think your best advisor would be an on-campus advisor who has a chance of knowing you a little better.

General suggestion: Before making plans for an advanced degree that by necessity includes experience at a lower level (i.e., a nurse practitioner requires actual experience as a RN), make sure that you enjoy/find stimulating the base experience as an RN. No one wants a primary care provider that doesn't really like caring for patients. Or that has no experience in caring for patients.

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Specializes in Ortho.

Pharmacist

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Specializes in Healthcare risk management and liability.

Lots of jobs for physical therapists as the baby boomers are aging.

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