I first decided to become a nurse about 2 and a half years ago. After losing my first daughter to Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type I (after constant time in and out of hospitals), I grew such an admiration for the nurses that helped us. I didn't like my job (nor do I still - I have only 19 days left!). I have always loved taking care of people, I'm good at math & science, and was trying to figure out what to do "with my life."
To make sure this was really want I wanted, I spent eight months volunteering every weekend at a nearby NICU. I fell in love with it, looking forward to it every week. It really was the highlight of my week.
I started taking pre-reqs so I could apply for a nearby accelerated BSN program. I loved those as well. A & P I/II and Microbiology fascinated me. I then got accepted to the program, and I start in January.
I swear, everyone I know is telling me this isn't for me. Even those who know my whole story. "Nurses work horrible hours"... "Nurses are overworked and underpaid"... "You're going to burn out in a couple of years, and then what?"... "My (sister) (aunt) (mom) (friend) is a nurse and is miserable"... " "I have a (fill-in-the-blank) in nursing school that is sooo stressed, are you sure you can handle that now that you have a toddler?"
Keep in mind none of the people making these statements ARE nurses. I just never imagined this. I know this is what I want, I volunteered for so long and spoke with the nurses at length about what to expect... Why can't people be happy for me?
Sorry, I'm just venting... I'm so frustrated and am tired of feeling like I have to convince people that I'm not an idiot.
