I am 37 and looking to become an RN as a career change.
Should I start as a CNA or LPN first?
What are your thoughts on my age?
I currently work in the manufacturing sector as a tool designer. I am concerned with the outlook of my job along with the health issues. I spend 90% of my day sitting in front of a computer.
Your thoughts and suggestions would be of great help!
Thanks!!
I think it's great that you're considering going into nursing now. At 37, you are definitely NOT too old! There are a few "older" students in my class, a few in their 30's, a few in their 40's and 1 in his 50's. To start with I would recommend getting your CNA certification, it was required for us to get into nursing school anyway, so you may need it depending on your school requirements. Once you get your CNA, you'll get a good idea if nursing is what you want to get into and if it's the right thing for you.
I am 37 and looking to become an RN as a career change.
Should I start as a CNA or LPN first?
What are your thoughts on my age?
I currently work in the manufacturing sector as a tool designer. I am concerned with the outlook of my job along with the health issues. I spend 90% of my day sitting in front of a computer.
Your thoughts and suggestions would be of great help!
Thanks!!
[/ QUOTE ]
NO, you are still very young! The health care field is my second career. I started college back in 1992, when I was 32 yrs old. I knew from the start I wanted to be a nurse, however the ADN waiting list was so long it would take a couple of years for me to reach the top of the list. So, I took the prereq courses for both the ADN & Surgical Technology programs. I was accepted to the Surg Tech program right away (completed 1995). I worked in surgery as an Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) for a year, then received a call, while at work, I'd been accepted to the ADN program. I worked 32 hrs per week as an CST, as a male single parent, while in the ADN program (completed 1998 at 38 yrs old).
IMHO, besides the CNA option you might want to consider an Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Technology program (CST). I had no trouble at all with the ADN clinicals, which was due to my CST experience. Nevertheless, I do suggest you seek some kind of health care work as a warm up to an RN program.
Another thought... if you can go straight to a BSN program, rather than an ADN program, go for it! I chose the ADN route because it was quicker in the short run. However, I just recently finished my BSN (at 43 yrs old) with UTMB Galveston's online program, while working 40+ hrs per week. At least my sons are now in their 20's and not living at home. Now, I'm taking Organic Chemistry. A prereq for the Army Nurse Anesthesia Masters (CRNA) program. I'm currently a critical care nurse in the USAR, as well as a civilian OR nurse.
BTW, in my first career I was active duty USMC (avionics) for 8 yrs, then a civilian aircraft electrician for 3 yrs.
I am 37 and looking to become an RN as a career change.
Should I start as a CNA or LPN first?
What are your thoughts on my age?
I currently work in the manufacturing sector as a tool designer. I am concerned with the outlook of my job along with the health issues. I spend 90% of my day sitting in front of a computer.
Your thoughts and suggestions would be of great help!
Thanks!!
[/ QUOTE ]
I hope 37 isn't too old! I started RN school when I was 37. Of course that was a long time ago - I'm 38 now and just a couple weeks from finishing up.
If you have no healthcare experience then I would suggest beginning work as a CNA as soon as you qualify. At the school I went to this was available after we completed the first semester.
Also - to give you a bit more encouragement - I am not the oldest person in my class. There are several who are my age and older. We have one guy who is 45 and just retired from a 20+ year career with Verizon as some kind of manager. There are a couple girls in the class who are in their late 30's and decided they didn't want to be waitresses anymore. In fact most of the people in my class are 30 y/o or older. There are a few who are in their mid 20's and one who is 22, but the median age is between 30-35.
You are NOT too old. Age is an advantage, definitely not a hindrance. Older students tend to do very well in nursing school. The few students who have had to drop out or were held back a semester were mostly younger students. You will do fine as long as you work hard and dedicate yourself to school.
As far as LPN vs. RN.... If I were you I would go for RN right off the bat. RN school is only a semester longer than LPN school and you will always find yourself wishing that you did it to start with. LPNs are paid less and do basically the same job as an RN in most capacities. If you go to LPN school you may find yourself deciding to transition to an RN later on. Around here that's a three semester course of study. If you go RN to start then it's only one semester additional. Not only that, but after your 3rd semester of RN school you can qualify to sit for the LPN boards if you want.
I am 31 and going back for my BSN now. It is actually nice to have "older" guys around to help the "young" guys. I think with age and experience in life you have a great del to offer the profession. I agree with going for teh RN right from the start. You may eve nwant to look at the differences in time commitment for the BSN program.
Two more cents from a Newbie! I'm 37 (38 in Jan.) and I will be starting my prereq's for an LPN in January. I researched several options and because of time, money, & family constraints I decided to get my LPN and then I'll let my employer pay for my RN and/or whatever else I go for.
I am in my first semester and I am 30. My buddy is going through it to and he is 33. We were both downsized welders, there are also a couple of former (downsized) machinists in the class 37, and 55. The oldest person in my class is 60 and HE is doing fine.
I was 26 when I started an access to nursing course, now 28 I am on my first placement of the second year and i'm loving it. The placement is at the accident and emergency. I didn't think I'd like it so much as I had always been drawn toward the idea of neuroscience nursing having been a carer for people with neurological conditions, but after meeting the consultant nurse in A & E and the ENP's I found their was a lot more to learn in other departments,
so watch out medical world because us oldies are the short lived leaders of the future healthcare, and if technology really is that good we will be able to rule with false hips and knees
I am 47 and doing a RN program. Never attended college before in my life, and currently have a 4.0 GPA, so see, you are never too old if you try. I also was wondering if age was an asset or hinderance, but I do believe that experience in life will more than offset any age related shortcomings.
I RETIRED FROM THE SERVICE AT 38 YEARS OF AGE AND ENTERED NURSING SCHOOL THAT FALL. I WAS IN A COMPLETELY UNRELATED FIELD IN THE MILITARY. I HAVE BEEN AN RN SINCE 1996 AND AM FIFTY YEARS OLD NOW. MY CAREER HAS BEEN WONDERFUL! MY WIFE IS AN RN ALSO AND IS FIFTY TWO, SHE WAS A LATE BLOOMER ALSO, RECEIVING HER BSN AS I DID IN HER EARLY FORTIES. NURSING WAS A CAREER WHERE AGE HAD LITTLE TO NO BEARING AT THE ENTRY LEVEL,ONE OF THE IMPORTANT REASONS FOR CHOOSING THIS CARING PROFESSION. GO FOR THE DEGREE! YOU WILL BE ACCEPTED IN YOUR NEW FOUND CAREER, AS LONG AS YOU UNDERSTAND WHO YOU ARE AND WHO YOU WILL PRACTICE WITH. GOOD LUCK!
Are you still breathing???? Yes?? Then you're not too old. I have a dear friend that started nursing school at 50 and was very glad she did. You will probably not have as hard of a time adjusting because you have 'life experience' and know that everything is not always 'perfect'....a common problem with a lot of really young nurses...it takes a lot of living to figure out how to adjust to constant changes and pressure...and that is what nursing is all about...Good Luck
I agree. I'm not saying I want to keep working till I'm 70, but God knows I could as long as I kept it together.
The deciding factor for me is "would I enjoy the work." If the answer was yes, I'd go into any profession as long as I was planning on spending at least a few years in it and could look back after and say I did my part.
I'm 42 and have most of the prereqs done. I'm saying screw the CNA, I want to focus time on the RN. I will probably get the LPN after the first year of RN school, work part time and finish the second year of RN school.
You will bring more life experience to the nursing program of your choice by entering the field now.
Another pro to nursing is the fact you are "bankable" anywhere. You can find a job almost anywhere. You can do almost anything in your career...if you get tired of one type of nursing you can switch and do something else!!
I began my career at 32...and I love what I do!!
37 is not too old I'm a 38 year old in my 4th quarter with a history of mill work & manufacturing I wanted to go into a field where I could help others & have job security & the ability to travel & work. I'm not the youngest in my class but I'm not the oldest either. There are also 8 men out of the 18 in my class & the youngest male is 35 in my class. go for it you will not regret it
37 is not to old. I'm a 38 year old male in my 3rd quarter of nursing school. I have a history in mill work & manufacturing. I wanted a job where I could help others & still make a decent living w/job security & the ability to travel & work. In my class of 18 people there are 8 men & the youngest man is 35. Your never to young do it you'll love it
I am 28 and am preparing to enter a BSN program next fall. I am happy to read that there are people in their thirties and even older in nursing school. This assures me that I will have some mature study partners when I begin. Best of luck to you. ;-)
That was my age when I started 25 years ago. Never regretted a day of it! But "mature" study partners? LOL...not if you had the classmates I HAD....hahah...but that was MANY years ago, too.....God bless and so glad to hear you are doing it! We sure had fun in school.
God, I hope not. I'm 50. I'll graduate in May, '05. Good luck! Just stay committed to it - NO MATTER WHAT. It's not easy. My patients really like having a mature male nurse.
I first would like to comend you on and excellent career option. I think we are never to old to change careers and learn something new.
I was previously working in merchandising for children's clothing, then I decided to change careers.
I will hopefully complete the program by December of this year. I look forward to working with my patients.
I will make one suggestion. There are many hospitals that will employ you during your nursing studies. I suggest you take one of these jobs just to familiarize your self with the feel, and become more comfortable with the environment and care of the patients.
Hello, I'm new at forum.
No, you are still young I known students who are 30-40&50 yrs, they're very good. I think that if somebody want change career a,d have some dreams, have to try. Sorry for my English. I'm nurse from Poland.
Good luck!Jeff H
37. Wow that is really old. I hope it's not TOO old, cause I'm 50. I find I'm appreciated for my wisdom and maturity. I also find the work much more rewarding than any of the other careers I've had. GO FOR IT.
I just got asked last week to be a clinical instructor so this week I've been in the class a little to get the feel of how things are done at this school (I'm 41 for a few more days) and I see a few of the students older then me and some not too far behind me. I think the average age of nurses in this country is 48 (heard that today as the latest) so it would appear your in the perfect range.
Sorry I have not responded to all the supportive posts!
I have been very busy. I will be finishing up my pre-req's this spring, and I will be taking a (3) week cna course at the end of the month. I hope to be accepted into an ADN program in August. Again sorry for my lack of communication.
I am carrying 16 hours of classes, and working full time along with coaching my 7 year old son's roller hockey league. Thanks for all the support and posts!!!!
I think I'll claim the prize as the oldest Nursing student to post thus far. I'll graduate from a ADN program in December, 2005. On month later, I celebrate(?)my 56th birthday.
Seriously, as an older student, and a guy, you will stand out from your classmates, both for good and for ill. The vast majority of your classmates and instructors will be supportive and friendly, particularly if you make the effort to get to know them. Develop a reputation for being approachable, willing to listen, and prepared for class. A little humor alos goes a long way. Also recognize that some of your younger classmates may be considerably more stressed, since that are at a different stage in life.
Not to burst ur bubble or steal ur thunder, in Dec. 2005 I will have 4 down and 1 semester left in my ADN program and will turn 57 LOL. But I have not ran into any negative things so far. First semester I had one instructor who started to give me a hard time about things, but as the semester went along. We found things of interest that got us to talking about things other than school. Which made the times we had to talk about school stuff more relaxed and so much more open. Has made for a very enjoyable time.The end of this semester we change insturctors for our med/surg rotation, and and she is our hoity toity one. She likes to belittle u in the hopes it makes u learn. I have never learned that way, so maybe we in for a meeting on the minds on 4 West. You never know. Hope thew time between now and Dec 2005 passes quickly for you.
I'm 40 and have 9 more pre-reqs. to go before I really get into nursing courses. My current teacher is in my age group, so we laugh about menopause together. Go for it! You've got nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Definitely over the hill. How have you lived so long? Do you realize that when you're fourty, you might ask yourself the same question. I did. I'm 50 and graduating in May.
Helloe best of luck to you. there;
I am currently a nursing student trying to familiarize myself with this forum. I beliee that if you want something, go for it! age is nothing but a number. I was a little skeptical about starting at first because of the horror stories of Nurses eating their young. I am not letting that intimidate me because life is what you make it, and I plan to forge on ahead. Congratulations on making the decision and moving forward.
I made a career change to nursing when I was 37. I went a two year RN program following a divorce and have never regretted it. I started as a Labor and delivery nurse and am currently in Psych nursing. You just have to be realistic about what you are getting into. Nursing school school is hard and requires a lot of time. And while there are plenty of jobs when you get done with school the work is demanding and at times stressful. Anyway I love nursing
and encourage you to go ahead.
Hello! I started nursing school here in St. Louis at 40! The best thing that I ever did. I was getting sick and tierd of always wondering if I would have a job in the future or not, so I self impowered myself! It is very very cool! GO FOR IT!!!!
I once was in the industrial environment(machine shop) and got tired of the ups, downs and layoffs. So I went back to school (part-time).....I just graduated from a LPN program and just passed my State Boards. I am 43 and love nursing, more then anything I have ever done. If you are dedicated and can put the time in studying........GO FOR IT, your not to old.
I'm 47 and am in my final two quarters of my RN education. I've been around the academic block once or twice and am now in an accelerated graduate-entry program. In about a year and a half, I'll have my master's degree in nursing and will be able to sit for the NP exams!
I had always looked at healthcare, but got sidetracked chasing "money", instead of going for my hearts desire. Finally, at 39, I left my career and trained as a nac, for less than a third of what I had been earning. I went through emt school, then got side tracked again, then entered nursing school at 48, and graduated and passed the boards when I was 50. The oldest people in my class were in their late 50's, and one who was 60. The class president was 55, and went straight on from there into the nurse practioner program. What is too old? When you can't or won't learn anymore.
I'm 38 and just starting to looking to Nursing. From many of the things that I've been reading being in your late 30's to early 40's and starting a second career in nursing is pretty much the norm rather than the exception.
Also, I found a website advertised in Readers Digest and sponsored by Johnson and Johnson, it has lots of good info on becoming a nurse. Their July newsletter has two articles on male nurses, very interesting...check it out.
I am 52 years old and have been an RN since 1977. I graduated from a diploma program, this past June I completed my BSN. You are never too old too learn – go for it!
I'm 46 and never thought of nursing as a viable career choice for me. I began to consider it three years ago and had to take a number of pre-requisites to get me looked at for a program:
microbiology, physiology, anatomy, nutrition, chemistry... and then there were the non science courses in public speaking, political science and other electives. I was lucky inasmuch as I didn't have to take English or math.
I assume you can be a nurse well into your 60s... so I certainly don't think your age is too late.
Nursing is too important to leave just to the young. You bring more life experience to the table, and chances are you have a better idea of when to shut up and listen to someone instead of blurting out some superficial platitude. I don't mean to dog twenty-somethings, but I see it all too often: some relentlessly cheerful, fresh-faced, idealistic GN who has all the answers, bubbling all over some poor elderly man who's just lost his wife, his heart and soul of 50 years.
I say step up to the plate and be proud of the experience and patience you'll bring to your chosen profession. One of my best friends (in his late 40's) went to nursing school, finished my hospital's ICU internship program, and is highly regarded by his coworkers for his skill and compassion. He loves it. Lots more rewarding than writing software, he says.
You're never too old...well at least not by my perspective. I am 47 and have recently completing my prequisites.
Regarding the aforementioned advice of first becoming a CNA, this direction really opened my eyes to the dialy issues of the environment of nursing. For some its a surprise, for others it's simply a confirmation of direction and purpose.
Jeff H,
Welcome to the Geriatric Nursing Association !!! ;) I am a 44 year old LPN that graduated last year, and it was one of the best moves I have ever made. In addition to being an old fart, I have had open heart surgery in the past. I was still welcomed into the proffesion, and have had no difficulty physically. This is a proffesion that offers so many options that you can litterally practice your way into retirement. There are many non-physical rehlms of nursing that can be pursued as we get older (i.e. school nursing, administration, and homecare to name a few). I do agree with others that being a LNA prior to becoming a nurse would be helpful. I did it, and if you can handle that end of the patients (no pun intended) then you can handle anything.
Good Luck
Braveheart
Starting as a CNA is ok, it gives you experience in dealing with patients, how to interact etc but it will not necessarily give you a good perspective of what nursing is like. Only dealing with the nurses will do that and hopefully you will get to work with some friendly ones.
I was 38 also when I changed from an ITT carear to Nursing. Went for a 2 yr degree and ended up getting my BSN. My first job turned out to be a travel assignment (newly started "new grad program" with Starmed) and I have been traveling ever since. Now 9 years later, I finished working ER in New Zealand and currently working in Sydney Australia...... Good Luck
I have a mother and daughter in my clinical group this year. The mother is 55 the daughter is 30. Both are LPN's and the daughter told the mother she'd go back to school if the mother did...the mother is doing better in class work both are wonderful in clinical.
Well another story for the book, I will be 28 in a few weeks and have always wanted to go into the medical field. Went to 2 years of Comm. College for MIS/Criminal Justice, got a cush IT job and have been doing that since.
Now, I want a fullfilling career and NOT with computers. So here I go off on my dream job and to do what I want to do. So I'll be right there with the rest of ya, look forward to the late night coffee induced chats around here.
Damn, I am glad I found this. I am in the same boat. I am 34, wife, 3 kids, two of which are 2 month old twins, I have a BS in poli sci, an AS in CIS, I sit in an office in the biggest building downtown, make a decent amount of money and I'm bored out of my mind. I have thought for a long time about switching to a medical career but I always talked myself out of it. Now I am really seriously thinking about it but I'm in a situation w/ family that I'd have to do it part time and it might take me 3 years just to even get the RN. The counselor at one of the places I could go has said I am perfect for the Accelerated BSN but I can't stop working for 12 months, plus it's pretty expensive. I could pay for the RN program at the local CC as I go, then work as an RN while I get my BSN or go straight to the RN to MSN program but I'm just kind of discouraged at this point. I can't find a program that is cheap and will allow me to still work; they are either one or the other.
I finally got the gumption to tell my wife about my thoughts; I figured she would tell me I am crazy but she seemed ok. Now that she's had some time to think about it, she is kind of hesitant because she doesn't want me to stick her w/ the kids constantly while I am in class or studying for the next few years. Plus, she thinks I might be unhappy w/ the hours, although I suspect what she really means is that she'll be unhappy w/ my hours. These are all things I am concerned with as well, but I've already lived nearly half of my life and I don't want to regret not doing something. I've watched motorcycle road racing since I was 20 and just finally did it myself a couple of years ago; wish I had done it sooner. I think this might be the same thing. I've already read plenty of encouraging things and avice here, but I guess I just needed to vent a bit. I think I can work it out; I'm just still sifting through the maze of programs and options.
tailgunn wrote:Damn, I am glad I found this. I am in the same boat. I am 34, wife, 3 kids, two of which are 2 month old twins, I have a BS in poli sci, an AS in CIS, I sit in an office in the biggest building downtown, make a decent amount of money and I'm bored out of my mind. I have thought for a long time about switching to a medical career but I always talked myself out of it. Now I am really seriously thinking about it but I'm in a situation w/ family that I'd have to do it part time and it might take me 3 years just to even get the RN. The counselor at one of the places I could go has said I am perfect for the Accelerated BSN but I can't stop working for 12 months, plus it's pretty expensive. I could pay for the RN program at the local CC as I go, then work as an RN while I get my BSN or go straight to the RN to MSN program but I'm just kind of discouraged at this point. I can't find a program that is cheap and will allow me to still work; they are either one or the other.
I finally got the gumption to tell my wife about my thoughts; I figured she would tell me I am crazy but she seemed ok. Now that she's had some time to think about it, she is kind of hesitant because she doesn't want me to stick her w/ the kids constantly while I am in class or studying for the next few years. Plus, she thinks I might be unhappy w/ the hours, although I suspect what she really means is that she'll be unhappy w/ my hours. These are all things I am concerned with as well, but I've already lived nearly half of my life and I don't want to regret not doing something. I've watched motorcycle road racing since I was 20 and just finally did it myself a couple of years ago; wish I had done it sooner. I think this might be the same thing. I've already read plenty of encouraging things and avice here, but I guess I just needed to vent a bit. I think I can work it out; I'm just still sifting through the maze of programs and options.
Hi tailgunn,
I'm in the same boat as you.. well sort of, I'm only 22. Currently a college junior getting my BS in Accounting and I've also been contemplating about switching to Nursing. I've just realized that I don't want to spend the rest of my life crunching numbers and want to do something more meaningful. I used to go to the hopsital regularly for dialysis over 3+ years and have known many wonderful nurses and doctors.
Personally, I think you should do more researching about nursing before actually committing yourself taking classes. There are volunteer programs at hospital so it'd be a good idea to try it out and see if you'll like it or not. Being a patient is totally different from being a nurse. Many people here recommend getting your LPN first and then RN later. There are lots of options in nursing and I think you'll enjoy your life if you like what you're doing. Good luck to you.
I will be 40 in Augut and just started a BSN program. I have been an RN for some time but it is not too late. I would say to you to not worry about CNA or LPN unless your program requires it, and I cannot imagine why they would. Go for your RN right away... Help with the shortage. We men are 5 % of the industry and to fix the projected shortages in the next 10-15 years we need to get more men into nursing...
I am also in the same boat. I am 29 years old. When I went into the military I heard computers technology was the way to go. Well after 8 years in military working on networks and T-1/T-3 troubleshooting I was medically discharge. First thing I did was get a computer security job, now I am tired of watching computer monitors and there is seldom any form of job satisfaction. I stayed in it because I made decent money about 45k a year with great benefits, with this cause I didn't want to leave since I have two kids and a wife. Now me and wife both want to become nurses. Now my problem is just finding a way to work part-time, nursing school, and pay off bills..etc.
All right, ready for this? After 20+ years as a manufacturing designer, I've returned to school and am pursuing my RN licensure. Oh, by the way, I'm 56yo. That's why I had to chuckle when I saw this post and had to reply. And, I'm not alone. There are others my age, male and female who are changing careers, going for a second career, or just now entering the job market after the home mommy tract, etc. At present I've completed my pre-reqs for the nursing program at my local (Oakland county, Michigan) community college with a 3.60 gpa, am awaiting a certified letter in June as to my start date in the actual RN nursing program, and I'm beginning classes offered by the local hospital in a week and a half in order to work as a nurses' aid. I'm very excited about it and a little nervous as well that I do alright. At least the interview went rather well with the department manager.
Please post replies or e-mail me directly if you like. (jsingel@excite.com)
Good luck to you and all who read this!
Jim
I would have to answer you with an absolute no, you are not too old. I am 49 and have 2 semesters left for my BSN. This is a second career for me and am a much better student at this time in my life. I am in fact the oldest in my class, but am very accepted. Hope you opt to continue.
****o! Im paulo, a registered nurse here in the Philippines....I am 38 years old and a newly registered nurse. I used to be an accountant but I found my fulfillment in nursing. Definitely not an advantage coz nurses of my age thinks more matured and more critical. Good luck to all!:)
thanks for all the posts in this thread, it has helped me greatly! i am 47 and start my ADN program August 15. was worried i would be to old, but ya'll and the nursing advisor at the school have assured me i am not tooo old. i am so excited about all this!
You are NEVER EVER too old to go back to school. I was in nursing school with a 50+ year old respiratory therapist. Professors actually prefer adult learners as they are genuinely willing to learn and absorb; while setting an example for the younger students in the course; thus shaping the dynamic. Not to mention, organization skills, etc.
I don't care if you are 99 years old and wanting to pursue your B.S.N.(just make sure to get into an accelerated program if you are 99 though, lol), you can do it.
IMHO it all depends upon you. If you are young at heart and in reasonably good health -- since nursing is a phyically taxing job -- why not go for it?
I have a friend who is a great guy and he is 47. He just finished his nursing degree 3 months ago and he's going to be a great nurse.
I would encourage you to map out a long term plan if you go for it, specifically related to areas of speciality you might want to pursue and how you will get there.
You'll never have trouble finding a job in this industry as long as you are competent. It's totally a candidate driven market and it's only going to become more so over the next 2 decades.
I think at 37 you are still more than capable to perform the duty and task of a Nurse. I also think that it plays as an advantage to whoever you'll be working for even the school that you'll choose to attend, as maturity definitely helps in this field.
idykoffi wrote:I think at 37 you are still more than capable to perform the duty and task of a Nurse. I also think that it plays as an advantage to whoever you'll be working for even the school that you'll choose to attend, as maturity definitely helps in this field.
I started my RN at 37 nad recieved my license at 39 and am currently working as an RN
I love to read stories like this! There are so many people who just accept their life and make excuses for not being happy. It is good to see someone recognize their goals and pursue them. Best of luck with your new career.
...37 is not too old to work on a nursing degree. I must be the great-great-great grandma of graduating nurses. After obtaining my nursing degree, I enhanced my nursing with a Ph.D in Naturology (natural and preventative health), and also became a personal trainer and sports nutrition counselor.
My motto is ...."Never Stop Learning - keep on going!"
I am going now for Holistic Nurse Certification and I am a member of the AHNA.
I'm not male, nor am I a nurse, so my apologies in advance for posting here when I don't belong. But this discussion interested me a great deal. I am 42 years old and am planning to become a nurse. I have a BA degree and have worked mainly in administrative jobs for the past 15 years. I've been struggling with feeling that maybe I'm "just too old". I still plan to try it out, though. At age 22, I didn't have the maturity and wisdom that I have now.
And btw, I also just had my first child, at age 42.
I am 37 and looking to become an RN as a career change.
Should I start as a CNA or LPN first?
What are your thoughts on my age?
I currently work in the manufacturing sector as a tool designer. I am concerned with the outlook of my job along with the health issues. I spend 90% of my day sitting in front of a computer.
Your thoughts and suggestions would be of great help!
Thanks!!
Nope, you're not too old. I started at 43. I would do CNA work first for a little while. It helps for you to see if you want to do it because, if the CNA isn't there, you get to do what they do as an LPN or RN. If you're not down with that, then you might be happier somewhere else. You can CNA while you're in school. I was a CNA and an LPN while I was in school. It helped.
I agree with the others on this thread who note that becoming a CNA is often a prerequisite to getting an LPN / RN. However it comes out, the career is infinitely rewarding. It's hard work but very rewarding.
LOL great post... Its the very question I was here to ask.. in fact yesterday was my 37th B-day and tomorrow Im seeing a shortsale specialist to get out from under my house then Im moving home (...hangs head in shame) to live in Mom n Dad's basement while I go back to school to ?(hopefully) become a nurse...
I have a BS in industrial design, have spent 9 years as a footwear designer, been to China 35+ some odd times and speak mandarin Chinese (self taught for work).. Im a great designer, but this economy is just a train wreck and Ive have 2 companies get consolidated or lay me off now in 5 years and each time my life has gone to crap. This time I ended up divorced too. I just need something secure where I know Ill have a job tomorrow and where at the end of the day I can be confident that my sweat and hard work actually made the world better in some way for somebody...
I just wanted to say thnx for all the positive replies you all made to this post, that wasnt mine but Im willing to steal a share in.. I'm feeling better already about my decision from reading it all and glad I stumbled in and joined this forum..
I don't think so LOL, I'm 43 and in my third semester of the ADN program. Our class is about 1/3 male and I am not nearly the oldest male student. I have wanted to be a nurse for years but life's timing was not in sync with being able to go back to school.
Tingbudong wrote:LOL great post... Its the very question I was here to ask.. in fact yesterday was my 37th B-day and tomorrow Im seeing a shortsale specialist to get out from under my house then Im moving home (...hangs head in shame) to live in Mom n Dad's basement while I go back to school to ?(hopefully) become a nurse...
I have a BS in industrial design, have spent 9 years as a footwear designer, been to China 35+ some odd times and speak mandarin Chinese (self taught for work).. Im a great designer, but this economy is just a train wreck and Ive have 2 companies get consolidated or lay me off now in 5 years and each time my life has gone to crap. This time I ended up divorced too. I just need something secure where I know Ill have a job tomorrow and where at the end of the day I can be confident that my sweat and hard work actually made the world better in some way for somebody...
I just wanted to say thnx for all the positive replies you all made to this post, that wasnt mine but Im willing to steal a share in.. I'm feeling better already about my decision from reading it all and glad I stumbled in and joined this forum..
Thinking Ill be on here a lot...
Tyler
Hey Tyler,
Happy belated birthday! I'm sorry to read about all of the crap that you've endured but it sounds like you're very resiliant and resourceful- great qualities to have. Everything you have said about nursing is true and it sounds like you will be an asset to the profession. As you have already read here, you're in very good company as far as age and career history. I am in nursing as a not second but third career. I was thirty at the time, so you got me by seven years, ol' duffer...
Please let me say that while you've (done a very smart thing, BTW) essentially liquidated everything and plan to live with your parents while completing your nursing education, you have no reason to feel shame. You were working hard and successfully when the career market drastically changed and left you out not once, but twice.
I have an idea of what you may be feeling and PAIN more than shame fit the description for me. I was once a "dislocated worker." My job ended due to a RIF and like you, I had specific training that wasn't marketable at the time, hence the term dislocated. How appropriate. I was fortunate that I didn't lose my house and even more fortunate that my marriage survived and kids stayed safe.
I suppose it's a normal and let me say probably male, thing to feel but know this: You have not failed because you keep working. Failure happens when a person gives up. You will get through this, start again, and be stronger than ever.
The best of luck to you and please, keep us posted.
I went to nursing school and got married and had a baby after my 37th birtday. Had a lot of different jobs previous to that since becoming a nurse I've never been unemployed since. More importantly I love what I do and I know that every day I make a difference in someone's life.
I hope 37 isn't too old to go into nursing, because I am just starting the path and I'm 45. After 20 years as an architect, I have decided (I think) to take a career turn and go into nursing. My interest in nursing has been peaking over the past few years, and the latest economic downturn gave me a reason to really do something about it. I just found this forum, what a great resource. I am looking into the University of Michigan's Second Degree program. I did my B of S & Masters at the U, and I live in Ann Arbor, so it would be my first choice. I just signed up at the local community college to take Chem and Bio. Hopefully my classroom brain still works after all these years, although with all the distractions of being a teenager in college years ago (you know what I mean), I'm amazed it worked at all back then LOL.
Anyways, just wanted to say "hi" to you all, and thanks in advance for all the great advice
Dave 48103 wrote:I hope 37 isn't too old to go into nursing, because I am just starting the path and I'm 45. After 20 years as an architect, I have decided (I think) to take a career turn and go into nursing. My interest in nursing has been peaking over the past few years, and the latest economic downturn gave me a reason to really do something about it. I just found this forum, what a great resource. I am looking into the University of Michigan's Second Degree program. I did my B of S & Masters at the U, and I live in Ann Arbor, so it would be my first choice. I just signed up at the local community college to take Chem and Bio. Hopefully my classroom brain still works after all these years, although with all the distractions of being a teenager in college years ago (you know what I mean), I'm amazed it worked at all back then LOL.
Anyways, just wanted to say "hi" to you all, and thanks in advance for all the great advice
Dave
Welcome aboard, Dave. I'm sure you will do very well. After you are in nursing for awhile, maybe your years in architecture will lead you to help redesign our many very poorly designed patient care areas. We need a lot of help in this area.
Ricu wrote:Welcome aboard, Dave. I'm sure you will do very well. After you are in nursing for awhile, maybe your years in architecture will lead you to help redesign our many very poorly designed patient care areas. We need a lot of help in this area.
Good luck,
R
Well, if nothing else, I could certainly renovate the nursing staff areas!
I am 37 and looking to become an RN as a career change.
Should I start as a CNA or LPN first?
What are your thoughts on my age?
I currently work in the manufacturing sector as a tool designer. I am concerned with the outlook of my job along with the health issues. I spend 90% of my day sitting in front of a computer.
Your thoughts and suggestions would be of great help!
Thanks!!
Hey Hon, let me tell you, I have been an RN for 2 years now and I am 50 for God's sake, ha! I graduated at 48 with a bunch of 20 year olds, but we had a ball and all of my friends and myself managed to pass the NCLEX. I recommend that you go for the RN right off the bat - I did and so can you. Luckily for me, I didn't realize at the time just how important that decision was for me...turned out when my husband came back from Iraq he had/has PTSD and a girlfriend, so now I've been divorced for almost 2 years after being with my ex my entire life (35 years of it!!) You never know why God is calling you to do something, but it works out if you listen...I started nursing school with the attitude of just wanting to help others, and now I am a travel nurse - still a new nurse of course (all the nurses I work with who are my age have been nurses for 20+ years and here I am at 50 still new)...anyway I highly recommend that you follow your heart, but you are still a "young whippersnapper" so GO FOR IT!!!
No, 37 is not too old to begin a new career in nursing. I returned to college at 46 to become a psychiatric nurse. At least 1/3 of the people in my class were in their late 20's up thru their mid to late 30's. We even had 4 LPN's in their 50's doing the LPN to RN bridge program. Remember the 30's are the new 20's.
Good luck,
Samcat50
I am 34 and just getting started on my Nursing career after working in banking for over 12 years. I am starting a CNA course in 2 weeks and then I am entering an LPN program in August. I am glad I waited until I was a bit older as now I feel I am more capable of handling the pressures of Nursing. I plan to have my BSN by latest 40 years old and I can't wait! :cool-nurse:
When I was in nursing school the ages ranged from early 20's to even 50's. So 37 is not to old to work on a nursing degree. Keep your head up and good luck.
Now, I'm taking Organic Chemistry. A prereq for the Army Nurse Anesthesia Masters (CRNA) program. I'm currently a critical care nurse in the USAR, as well as a civilian OR nurse.
I known students who are 30-40&50 yrs, they're very good. I think that if somebody want change career a,d have some dreams, have to try. Sorry for my English. I'm nurse from Poland.
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