Originally Posted by
Ricu
Hey Ark,
...It sounds like it might be necessary for you to earn an income so look for programs that offer some flexibility. While they are the most common, not all nursing schools have traditional, classroom based programs so look around. This is where being unattached helps because you may have to relocate or work odd hours to make it all happen. I was able to work full time throughout my education.
Yes, it is intimidating to take risks, give up income to spend a lot of money on an uncertain future but from what you wrote about yourself, you've done this before and made out well in the end, right? I won't lie to you here. Even though we're in a better position than many in the workforce, hard economic times have impacted healthcare workers too. When it's all done and you look for that first nursing position it will likely take awhile for you to land it. You will be frustrated and might feel like you wasted your time but hang in there and be persistent. You will eventually get in and have that career and financial security that you were looking for. Furthermore, you will have flexibility like you may have only dreamed of; to work anywhere, any shift, any specialty, any time.
How does a man fit into nursing? He fits better now than he ever did but that has more to do with how HE feels about being a nurse than how the public does. To be happy and comfortable in this role, a man has to be secure in his self image and not have hang ups about sexuality and sensuality. There are volumes written about this subject in this thread so when you have time, read back. You will get a good feel for what's happening right now. That said, nursing is still an untraditional role for men and there may be regions across the country where it could be more challenging socially but not insurmountable.
Thanks for checking in with us. I hope some of what I wrote helps. Stay in touch and let us know what you decide.
Good luck,
R