I'm a 41 year old single mom (joint custody) who will be an empty nester in 4 years. I'm not sure if I'm going through a midlife crisis but lately my corporate insurance job no longer lights my fire and I am yearning for a career that gives me a strong sense of purpose and the feeling that I'm doing something meaningful.
I have family members who are nurses and they've been encouraging me to consider Nursing.
I'm looking into getting in the GEPN at University of Hawaii- Manoa on the DNP path.
I know that once I start, there's no turning back because I'll be using part of my IRA money for living expenses while I do the 1 year intensive prelicensure before taking the NCLEX.
Do you think Nursing school is a good return of investment at my age (41)?
I'm about ready to graduate an ADN program in a month and I've gotta say some of these comments sure are demoralizing. I'm 33, soon to be 34. I've always wanted to be involved in healthcare but some of these comments are scary. Don't people want new nurses to eventually replace current OG nurses when they retire? I don't get it.
But then again, I guess everything is relative. I've been at my current job for 9 years pretty soon (I drive a delivery truck and deliver groceries to a bunch of wealthy pompous/condescending customers every day. Okay, they're not all like that, many of our customers are very kind and treat us well.) and I just want something different. The money isn't particularly bad, but the job ruins your body, you've gotta deal with the elements, and I'm over it. I guess you'll deal with much the same with nursing, but at least in nursing you have many many options whereas at my job, this is kinda it.
Nursing does offer many opportunities but when you plan your career, consider the moves you make and the connections you have to make. They are all vital in your ability to ascend in this field. Bedside nursing can be hard on your body as well. Once you start working as a nurse you will, "get it". Anyhow congrats on your new career.
Workitinurfava, BSN, RN
1,160 Posts
Nursing does offer many opportunities but when you plan your career, consider the moves you make and the connections you have to make. They are all vital in your ability to ascend in this field. Bedside nursing can be hard on your body as well. Once you start working as a nurse you will, "get it". Anyhow congrats on your new career.