young FNP student out of place??

[fivefeet05NP2B]

So today was the first day of orientation for my MSN program. There were alot of nurses with a wide variety of nursing backgrounds but the common theme I noticed was that most were in their late 30's and up. Honestly, I feel like it will be kind of hard for me to relate to these nurses because of the age gap (I'm in my mid 20's). I'm worried that it will be awkward and hard to form relationships. Anyone else dealing with this?

[elkpark]

When I went to grad school, it was the opposite -- I was ten years older than the next oldest person in my specialty track. IMO, it isn't a big deal unless you decide to make it a big deal.

[nkh1223]

I was 23 when I started my MSN program and felt the same thing. Luckily, I knew a couple of girls in the program, 2 of which are in their mid 30's and one was 25. I never felt that people looked at me differently because I was so young. Honestly, the older students were more scared than I was and always wanted to buddy up with us because it had been so long since they had been students.

Try not to worry about it... having your Master's at 26 is pretty awesome!!!

[SnowShoeRN]

I'm 33 and when I found out that my best friend in the program was 25 I was blown away. I thought for SURE she was older than me because she's amazing, wise, clever, funny, and truly a salvation. (: Clearly, at this point though, age really doesn't matter. And if you be yourself and project yourself as someone with maturity, I'm sure you'll gain the respect and friendship of your peers.

[BNBSN]

I'm 22 and just started a FNP program, will be 23 this month. I feel the same way, but so far have not had any issues. If I do, I will ignore them kindly and pursue my goal :)

[bayareaFNPstud]

I've been worried about the same thing. I just started my FNP program, and I just turned 22 years old. I will be getting my FNP at 24. I think I'm more worried about how my patients will perceive me.