What should I expect????

[olesoulle]

I graduate from school with a BSN in about 3 weeks. I am a 52 year old male entering this younger woman's world. I keep hearing fantastic stories that I will be welcomed with open arms arms and even recieve special treatment just because I am a man. I must say that it all sounds like a fairy story but I hope that it is all true. I would love to hear from any one that has "been there and done that!" What can I really expect in this new adventure???? Please try to give me some idea..... I am accutally excited about this, for the first time in many years........

[Tweety, BSN, RN]

Congratuations!!

Best of luck to you. Each experience around the country is different so it's hard to generalize.

I will say 99% of your reception into the world of nursing is your responsibility. Don't expect anyone to roll out any red carpets. Approach your new job with eagerness, professionalism, the humility to ask questions, (I'll get flamed for this but this is sometimes lacking in some of the male graduates who have a fear of asking questions and have the ego that they know it all), and a work ethic that desires to work and be a helpful team member, and you will do just fine.

Statistics show over and over the average age of nursing is rising, while younger than you, last I read it was in the mid to upper 40s.