I'm nearly 56 years old, have a 10 year old son and am a single mom. I used to be in hi tech but got laid off in 2001. Since then employment has been sporadic and I need to move a career that has a decent future where they'll emply me even if I'm 60.
I live in Orlando, and right now RN jobs are scarce, but we're building a new VA hospital, Nemours Children Hospital, etc. By the time I would get out of school I'd have chance at employment (I think).
My original plan was to go to RN school out of high school, I was accepted by 3 schools (this was in the 1970s), but I didn't go. I'd love to get back into nursing but have to way the cost of school versus the cost of time (at my age). My long term desire would be to be a nurse anesthetist .
I'm apparently elligible for a Pell grant up to $6000. But I still have to feed and clothe my son and me!
I know this is long, but bear with me.
I have a BFA, but none of the pre-reqs. As I see it here are my options -- but I can't figure out which makes the most sense for me.
1 -- Go for an accelerated BSN at Remington College. $36,500 (tyvm), but in and out probably in 18 months with a BSN so I can then go on for my MSN in a chosen field. After about 3 years I should have an advanced degree;
2 -- Go for an LPN with the Pell Grant, get a job with benefits after a year. Do the online RN (another year to an ASN), go for the BSN (another 2 years?) and then MSN. This looks like 4-5 yeas to me and although the costs for school would be cheaper I still have the cost to live. Of course hopefully after the LPN I could get a job and at least live while continuing school. . .
3 -- Go for a BA to BSN program at SCC. 6 months (at least) for pre-reqs. 2.5 years at SCC to get first the ASN and then the BSN. Total 3 years for the BSN and then another 1-2 for the MSN. Timeframe seems similar to choice #2, but with no income potential (the LPN I can get a job and do most course work online). I did interview at SCC and was very impressed with what I saw, plus they seem to be willing to help me figure out the financial aid. . .
As a child I read Sue Barton nursing books and always dreamed of being a nurse. Now, given my age and the "roadblocks" (financial, time and single motherhood) I simply don't know which way to turn, or who can help me (advice wise). I've lurked here for a long time and know there is a wealth of knowledge here. What would you do if you were me?
PS -- for the prereqs what is the best route here in Orlando? SCC?
If I go the LPN route which is the best way to go? I'm thinking Orlando Tech for the LPN IF I can get in -- I understand there is a waiting list!
