Hi my name is Cari, I have wanted to become a nurse as far back as I can remember. I am 42yrs. old with some GE out of the way, but need at least 10 more classes not including Anatomy, Physiology, and Microbiology to finish still. I have seen and gotten some information on the vocational schools for LVN programs. I am finding it hard to decide which is best for me with given my age and I have two wonderful daughters. My oldest is 22yrs. finishing up last year of college (yes, we are paying for that) and youngest is 16yrs. old. I currently am working part-time as a CMA for a private Dr;s office. I love my job, and my Dr has allowed me to take blood, run labs and assist with minor surgeries. I am finding that I want more! He is very sweet and I have learned a lot! I make decent money considering I am only a MA. I am struggling with going to LVN program and then bridging over to an RN program later, or to just to continue to take a few classes at a time at JC and then apply for RN program hopefully in a few years. I wont go to school fulltime because we need my money to tie us over. What are your thoughts, and suggestions? I dont want to be too old and that they wont hire me?

Thanks,

Cari

Hi Cari, I think you can be whatever you put your mind to. I started college two years ago hoping to get into the Physical Therapy Assistant program. It took me two years to get all my pre-requisites done but they are complete. The PTA program only accepts 35 students once a year.  I didnt get accepted but it didnt stop me. I am now 45 and I have decided that I would rather be in the RN program anyway.I got accepted into the ADN program and I start in August and it takes two years to complete so i will be 47 when i graduate. I am a little worried that i will be 47 and trying to find a job, but i figure that as long as i am confident in my abilities and eager to continue learning that I wont have any problems finding a job. I hope i helped you a little bit on your concerns. If you want to be a nurse dont let your age stop you. You are never to old to learn!!!! Have a great day!  

I agree with my girl Shonna. I am in my 30's & did not want to wait two years just to get accepted into an RN program so I decided to become an LPN first. It was a 15 month program, which I also graduated in Feb, & am now working as a pediatric homecare nurse. I absolutely love it!. So as soon as I'm ready for school again, I am doing an LPN to BSN bridge. YOU ARE NEVER TOO OLD TO FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS!!! If you really know in your heart that you are meant to be a nurse, then nothing can hold you back!

ps... LPN or RN we are both just as important members of the healthcare team. Just remember the LPN is the technical nurse with the bedside manner & the RN is the proffessional nurse who sets everything in motion.

Best of luck to you Cari, It will be difficult, butit will be worth it inn the ad.. Best of luck, Teresa

All the opinions are in and as Shonna say's Go For It..Hugs,Teressa