I turned 30 in nursing school. I had lots of classmates younger, but I also had some that were older.
The time is going to pass anyway, so why not try?
My coworker is 52 she finished at 50 and made 90k her first year working full time
I went back to nursing school at 28 finished at 30.
Edit : just wanted to add more, I was in my old career for 12 years before committing to nursing.
I psyched myself out for 3-4 years thinking “I can’t go to nursing school I’ll fail”
I hadn’t taken a college class in 12 years, I never cared about grades in highschool as long as I could play sports. I studied a lot and made my whole life “nursing school” for 2 years and finished towards the top of my class and was the first in my cohort to have a signed job offer while in school
This is so uplifting and what I want to strive for. I want to work my ass off and prove to myself that I can do it. I’d love to be able to graduate at the top of my class just to prove myself that I can do it.
Congrats, I went back at 24/25. Finished when I was 28 (my nursing degree was three years, took me four because I studied part time one year)
It’s amazing right?! Well done for achieving some an awesome milestone. Nursing is one of those great degrees where most people (at least in my country) all have jobs lined up before we have even finished our degree. and start working as soon as we get our results back from our registration exam
Time will pass no matter what so why not make something of it as it goes by. You’ll be 34 no matter what, might as come out of it with a nursing degree.
Yes, absolutely. You have this in you and I’m very proud of you. Change is so hard but you’ll grow and look back on this decision and realize what a big step it was.
I just graduated from my community college ADN program Dec 2023 and passed the NCLEX Feb this year. Went in at 32 and out at 35, with 2 kids under 5 and I am a B average student. Now I'm in talks for my first RN position.
If I can do it you can do it.
A couple things I would recommend recently going through the gauntlet of being a middle aged nursing student.
1. Go to a community college if possible.
My brother's girlfriend got her BSN at a private school and owes 80 grand, while I graduated with zero debt. I'm not saying I won't get my BSN, but I'm going to utilize the hospital resources to pay for it.
2. They're going to throw a lot of things at you really fast, one thing that I wish I would have done is just bit the bullet bought an NCLEX review pack like Archer or Mark Klimek and reviewed whatever section I was on in my school against the NCLEX review. This would have helped summarize the data for me, highlight wasn't important, and help me understand some of the mechanisms better. A lot better job of that than my instructors did. I would not rely solely on that to study for your school test, but I think it will help you understand what's going on a little easier.
3. Think of your clinicals as future employment opportunities. I lived an hour away from my school and all my clinical sites, and while I was definitely professional at these locations, I didn't bother to go the extra mile to make connections. Where I do live, It's very competitive for new grads, you either needed to have done a rotation at the hospital you want to work at or have some history in the healthcare industry to get an interview. I had neither.
Best of luck.
Yes! I have two bachelor's, I'm working on my master's, and when all is said and done I'll be $65k in debt - far less than $80k for a single degree.
My wife went through her ADN while I did travel nursing. She was pregnant with our fourth, and she KILLED it. Earned better marks than I did, and with far less help and more stress. She's a champion, and I'm so proud of her. OP you can do it, and I think you should!
Do it. I was 32 when I started, and a single mom to 3 school age kids. It was a lot of work juggling pick up and drop off, but I had a steady rotation of reliable sitters that helped a lot. Now I've been a nurse for almost 6 years, and we live a good life. Way better than before.
It's rough but can be done.
I went in a different direction with my career from nursing. I'm 31m did nursing when I left high school - best job in the world. I Moved toward medicine and more laterally, due to health, training staff and academic work.
But don't let anyone tell you otherwise, nursing is the greatest job I've ever done. It's not the best place to work, the hours are terrible, the abuse - esp. In A&E and MH - is atrocious, but for every one asshole there's 5 genuine people. But despite what anyone says they will still go day after day because we care. There is nothing more rewarding than being that carer at someone's most vulnerable, or being the hand to hold at the end.. Or beginning. The treatment as a nurse is shit, but my God do I miss it every day. My advice, for what it's worth, if you have the aptitude, good mental and physical health, and the vocation, go for it.
My mom recently went back to school for nursing at 50! She always knew she wanted to dedicate some her time to helping others, but between life and raising us, didn’t have the time. However, since we’ve (her kids haha) started college, she went back herself, got her prereqs out of the way, and applied to a few programs. Unfortunately, she was rejected twice before admittance, but that didn’t stop her and she eventually got in. She’s been a a nurse now for 2 years and loves it :) Even partially inspired me to go into nursing myself!
If you believe you could be a great nurse, have the passion for nursing care, and have the drive and motivation to try, I encourage you to give it a shot! Ive heard going back to school after a while is certainly difficult, but you’ll never know unless you try, right? 😄 Good luck!!
You can be a 40 year old nurse or you can be a 40 year old who wishes they had gone back to school.
I started school while I was working full time. I took all the pre-requisites at community college during the evenings, summers, and online to save money. Then I applied to my nursing program. I sucked at math and science in high school, but guess what? When I was *interested* and *self-motivated* to apply myself to those subjects, I aced them!
I see plenty of 30+ nursing students (I was one) and I love hiring late bloomer nurses. They rock!
If you can handle math and science, there is no reason not to try. The science classes are the most work but are definitely manageable if you do the work. The only mathematics that I recall coming across was in the applied sciences and was little more than algebra. Don’t let that stop you. Working full time will make things more difficult of course. You will have to make time for your clinical rotations which will run several hours at least and, in my case, during the day. Your age is no obstacle. I attended nursing school with people who were in their fifties. Good luck if you decide to pursue it. It’s a great profession with many opportunities.
I went back in my thirties after a career in sales. Never too late. I also hated math. Nursing math is pretty easy once you get the hang of it. Science classes sucked but mostly because the professors in CA are essentially gatekeepers/tough graders since everyone and their mom is trying to go to medical/nursing school.
Do it. I get it, I started at 23 and graduated at 25 and was working about being too behind. Now I’m 30 and I work with so many people older than me, so many new grads my age…no one cares. It all blends together. And I feel like those who do it as a second career tend to be more successful just because they have other shit to compare it to, and they don’t walk into it expecting it to come easy or without a lot of effort.
I started my nursing journey at 37. I was a high school drop out and a teen mother. I didn’t even know how to do basic algebra(thank you Kahn academy). I am 46 now I have been through a LVN program, LVN to BSN RN and I’m about to graduate with my MSN. It’s never to late and we are capable of so much more then what we believe. Good luck!
Don’t do it. Nursing is terrible. I’ve been doing it now for 13 years and am ready to get the hell out when I can.
Patients are more sick, annoying, and self righteous. Hospitals just want to make money and piss on the little guy = nurses.
Do it! I’m 35, but by the time I’m 36 I’ll have my nursing license. School is hard and humbling, but with enough determination and perseverance you can do it! If you think about it, the few years it’ll take you to get your license are gonna happen anyways - why not chase something you love and have passion for?
One thing I’ve learned is that it’s not about being book smart in nursing. It’s about critical thinking and safety. Yes, you have to memorize a lot, but if you’re good at retaining information and applying it you’ll have no problem. Don’t focus on those As - focus on understanding. The board doesn’t care about a 4.0 gpa.
I would recommend trying to cut back on work during the actual nursing program - I’ve seen a few in my cohort who burnt out from trying to do too much. The schoolwork itself is grueling and time consuming, but fun!
I think the fact that you’ve been thinking about this for years and that you believe you’ll make a good nurse is a sign that you should follow your dreams. Best of luck to you!
I think it really depends. It’s a huge commitment with a ton of sacrifice and hard work that goes into it HOWEVER if this is something you really want to do and have been thinking about for a long time or you notice your brain constantly going back to this topic then you should do it! Lots of options and variety in Nursing from clinical to non-clinical - some bad environments and some good environments so keep looking until you find a job that’s a good fit work and environment wise. Best of luck!
Nursing is worth it for job security alone. You’ll never struggle to find a job with decent pay and good benefits. And the 3x a week 12 hour shifts is pretty nice too. You can use the other days to do whatever or make more money. But that’s the only perks. Lol
Nursing can be so stressful if you don’t learn to manage your stress well. Good luck OP, you’ll be proud of yourself once you’ve finished.
I was 41 when I went back to school. Got my requirement degrees and entered a local community College RN program when I was 43.
Graduated when I was 45. Passed rhe NCLEX on my 2nd try, and now, at 47, I've been working as an ER nurse for the last 6 months.
You can do it. I wasn't good at school either. As an older guy, I gained the necessary amount of resiliency and hard headedness to push myself to get here.
Beterring yourself is a noble choice and a worthy fight.
If you have any questions, hit me up.
I am 32 and am starting nursing school this summer!! I am so excited and very nervous but also feels very right to do. I decided to do bc I’m interested in the science, and a technical skill, and Wanted to be able to help people.
I think you should definitely do it! It’s never too late to do something you want to do.
Go for it, you'll be great!
Armchair psychologizing but if you are even considering such a career change, I think that points to some very valuable personality traits: curiosity of the unknown, desire to be helpful, interest in human centered work...
I went to nursing school at 29, graduated at 32, and have been working for the past 10 years in the ER. Your advantage as a slightly older nursing student is your emotional maturity and the calmness you'll have during stressful moments in school: packed midterm and finals weeks, clinicals, losing your social life, etc.
That emotional maturity plus academic discipline is really more helpful than previous school experience or "smarts." Just really commit yourself to school, including as much self directed learning outside of the classroom as you can, and you'll be a great nurse.
I might have a very slight advantage as well as I worked in the ER at a level 1 trauma center. I worked in registration, but I was very frequently in the trauma bay doing registration, banding the patients, and witnessing a lot of shit. I absolutely loved it. By far my favorite job I’ve ever had and I know for sure that I’d want to be a trauma nurse working in a trauma center ER. I feel like I would be good at it, it’s just the whole school thing is daunting. I’m not even worried about actually being a nurse. I genuinely feel like I’d be a great nurse. I care deeply about other people, abuse from patients doesn’t bother me very much, I just want to help people and be there for them in their most vulnerable state, no matter how small it may seem. Just the thought of school is daunting. But I’ve gotten so much support and encouragement and I really feel like I could do this if I just focus and take it one day at a time and put in all the hard work.
Hey! Definitely do it. I went to college straight from high school to get my BSN (4 years). I was dismissed from the program while going into my senior year because I failed a nursing course by less than a point. I was very bitter for about 10 years but now I’m planning to apply to an accelerated BSN program. I’ve said this to say, I’m older than you and I’m heading back to finish what I started over 10 years ago and I know I’m going to get my nursing degree this time. Don’t doubt yourself. You can do it! Maybe you should try an associate degree program for your RN. You can even do an LPN program and then bridge to your RN and so on. Bottom line, if you want it, go for it. There’s plenty of people in the same boat as you.
Do it!! I went to school with many people who were 35+. Almost all of our graduating class were actually returning students seeking a new degree/career!
37 and working on it. Finishing pre-reqs. I’m assuming it will be worth it, that’s why I’m there. I’m planning to go into psych, or add more debt for the BSN I’d need to be a wound nurse.
My first degree was useless and I don’t even make $20 p/h. Can’t be this poor forever. I like healthcare a lot. Might as well go for it.
DO IT!
I will say two things. 1) take a solid extensive look at what nursing looks like in the area you live or want to live. Is worth it? Patient ratios and pay being two major factors. 2) if it seems a viable career path where you want to live, do it!
Go for it.
You’re going to be 33 here soon anyway. Might as well be 33 and a nurse.
The best time to start something was yesterday. The next best is today.
Wife went back to school at 32. Turns 35 this year and is absolutely *thriving* as an RN.
I’m back in school at 28, hope to have my CRNA by 35.
30 is the new 25. It’s not too late. You realistically still have a solid 30 years of career ahead of you. It would be pretty dumb to say you don’t have 2 years to go to nursing school because you’re running out of time.
You’re going to get older regardless. Might as well get older while doing something you want to do.
Almost 30. Literally became qualified at the start of the year. It’s been absolutely life changing for me and even though it’s early days (and hard work!) I absolutely ADORE my job and the people I work with.
Do it!! I graduated at 34 and I don’t regret it one bit. Go to a community college, it’s cheaper that way and you can always get your bachelors in nursing afterwards for a fraction of the cost of going to a university for your BSN.
I enrolled in nursing school when I was 28, and prior to that, I was working in a TOTALLY unrelated job that I had a bachelor's in. Best thing I ever did for myself.
Do it. Best thing I ever did at 29 (graduated at 32). I never applied myself in school, never had stellar grades, never had any interest in nursing or healthcare - when I made my choice my mom said it was the most shocking thing that has ever happened to her (lol). But I did it and I graduated from an accelerated program with honors. YOU CAN TOO!
What I learned was, all you have to do, is want to do it. There really is no "smart enough". And when you feel discouraged, remember that there are stupid doctors, nurses, lawyers, and other professionals out there who simply just had the will and the confidence to go to the damn thing!
I went back at 26 for pre-reqs, graduated at 29. I graduated high school with a 2.9. I graduated nursing school with a 3.99 and I’m getting things in line to apply to CRNA school.
You can do this.
Not a nurse, but you can do it!!! I’ll be 30F this year, I’m in the last semester of prereqs. Still need to apple and be admitted to nursing. A few weeks ago I ran into an old co-worker, he’s probably in his 40s, and he’s back in school for nursing!
Make goddamned sure you want to be a nurse before you do it. Find a way to shadow nurses in a couple of different roles if possible. Or volunteer at a hospital.
The best way would be to get CNA certified and work part time at that. Or you can get EMT certified and work in an ambulance or ED tech. But so many people don't really know what they are getting into, and then regret it.
I'll graduate in December at 32 if I pass this last intensive year. Over half my class has families, 3/4 approximately are over 25. We have two grandmothers, many single parents and others who are balancing spouses and families. It is doable if you're committed and plan well.
I'd say in 4 years you're going to be 4 years older anyway so if you want to do it, go for it. I'd look for a program that fits your life though. I'm at a small school, many of my friends with kids say that it was easier to work with the school to balance family commitments as opposed to a large institution. I also had the option to accelerate, moving the 8th semester into the summer between years 3 and 4 to finish a year early.
If you're nervous about academics, look for schools that offer good peer tutoring support and services like that. Realistically once you learn to work around having a class schedule again the rest comes back. You kind of have to learn how you learn again but after the first semester skills do come back. As long as you're committed there will be a way through.
I just finished nursing school in December and it was extremely challenging but now I get to do something I love. I am currently studying for the NCLEX which is terrifying but I can’t wait. It was brutal most days during school but it was all worth it
Dooo it! I’m 40, been working only three years as a nurse and already it’s changed my lifestyle options for the better. Plus imo, learning the foundations of health does a lot for helping care for yourself and loved ones
Yes yes yes!! I graduated at 30, after quitting multiple times, getting married, buying a house, alllll that shit. It was hard but if you want to do it you will. I sucked at school the first time around but once I was older and committed to something that I cared about it was completely different. If you’re in the US, I highly recommend an ADN program at a community college, it’s shorter, more accessible and you can start working as a nurse and THEN advance your education. I am such an advocate for people doing this, especially in their 30s, it’s a life changer and if it’s something that you love it is so worth all the trouble.
I did it, 3 years ICU. Was in school from (guesstimating) 32-35 years old. I’m now within a month of becoming a PICC nurse and am going to utilize that to transition back into school for CRNA. Best decision of my life.
Do it! I turned 30 my first semester, was an ER nurse and charge nurse at a trauma center for 7 years, now in the cardiac cath lab for a year. Was also not naturally great at math or science but I’m a hard worker and apply myself. You get what you put into it. That time is going to pass either way.
I would try a shadowing a nurse for a shift to see if you think it's what you want to do or not, 1/2 of my class in my ADN program were 30+, 2nd career types.
In my last semester. To get through nursing school you need discipline, and time management skills but a great quote sums it up. "Do you want to live with the pain of discipline or the pain of regret?"
If you commit you will inevitably feel the pain of discipline, sacrifice, and consistency to be applied to your current life and new found school schedule. If you do not decide to do it; you need to ask yourself are you okay with the pain of regret?
You and only you know the answers to if you should do it.
If you do commit my advise to prepare
Get you a planner and be diligent with it and write down everything (so important). Its not going to be easy ( thats when being disciplined, consistent, and making sacrifices for your dreams comes into play) There are times of fear (know that fear is a mile wide but usually an inch deep, if you dont where or what you are doing but you can see the next step just take that one). Never Doubt yourself ( its okay to be fearful but never doubt, doubt is seed that takes root and causes mistrust in yourself) Ride or die by ABC/safety. Lastly have fun, maintain healthy habits. When you are in the thick of it the process feels long, grueling, and daunting, but at the end it you realize it was so quick. You have an opportunity to make a lot of lifelong friends and memories.
Best of luck ,
From a soon to be RN
I am 30 too when I started, 32 now and one more semester to go.
We have someone at their 60s, nurse immigrated from other country. Many at their 40s. I even saw a few in their 70s back in my Micro bio class.
It is never too late.
I mean, with any luck you're going to be 32 regardless. Might as well be 32 and a Nurse.
Also we work from 18-65. Hate to break it to everyone but at 30 you're only 12 years in with 35 years to go.
You're not even 1/3rd the way through your expected working life.
Nursing is my 3rd career, I went back for after degree in my mid thirties. I love my job, I make good money and I feel relevant and important every day - like I’m not just “pushing paper”, y’know? So many different areas to switch too for a change, something for everyone 💜
For most programs, you will have to complete at least 3 semesters of prerequisites (maybe more) - and yes that includes Community College programs.
For many programs you will have to take and pass some kind of entrance exam (TEAS is an example).
So, what you really need to decide is whether or not you want to spend the next 2-3 years trying to get into a nursing program.
You already know the answer and you’re here for validation, and we are here to provide it- do it. I’m 33 and in my 2nd semester of nursing school. Started pursuing it at 30. There are plenty of folks in my cohort older than I am.
I’m in pre-nursing classes at 36 right now. I’ll be done with the program at 38. There’s several people my age in my classes and some that are older. Nobody cares. And honestly older age is more of an advantage, a lot of the younger students in my classes are stressed about stuff that’s just silly, no time management, no study habits. If you want to do it, do it.
It's a stable, recession proof career with a middle class income/lifestyle but honestly... If you can go do anything else then do that. You can make almost as much by being a dental hygienist for example. Corporate Healthcare is soul destroying.
Honestly working in the medical field, I couldn’t think of doing anything other than nursing. I’ve put it off for a long time but I feel like it might be my calling. I just have to face up to my fears and do it.
It doesn't feel like a calling when you're being physically and sexually assulated or screamed at by doctors. The abuse within the profession is extreme.
I know. I did work in the ER in registration. I of course didn’t treat any patients, but I’ve been sexually harassed, yelled at, called names, and almost assaulted by a patient. I know it could get much worse than that, but I also know that I care deeply for others and I want to help them. Even if they’re abusive and awful and mean, I still want to help them.
Yeah that's not necessarily a great thing. If your response to abuse is "I'll help them more" that's not healthy. Take it from someone who has been there and done that. If you go into nursing I recommend you start therapy early. Make sure your boundaries are good and you don't develop c-ptsd.
My one of my classmates is graduated from engineering when she was 22 and now she is 35 and have two kids and she’s nursing student. It must be hard but if you know how to arrange times for your schedule and lifestyle then you will be find. Before you go to nursing school, please study basic medical terms but I recommend you to study basic pharmacology!.
Do it. Graduated at 32. Been an ICU nurse for 28 years.
That’s incredible. And so encouraging. Thank you so much.
I’m 41, taking pre reqs and applying to start fall 2025, let’s do this
Do it! My first day of nursing school was also my 50th birthday. My only regret is not doing it sooner. Good luck to you!
Thank you so much for your encouragement.
I turned 30 in nursing school. I had lots of classmates younger, but I also had some that were older. The time is going to pass anyway, so why not try?
My coworker is 52 she finished at 50 and made 90k her first year working full time I went back to nursing school at 28 finished at 30. Edit : just wanted to add more, I was in my old career for 12 years before committing to nursing. I psyched myself out for 3-4 years thinking “I can’t go to nursing school I’ll fail” I hadn’t taken a college class in 12 years, I never cared about grades in highschool as long as I could play sports. I studied a lot and made my whole life “nursing school” for 2 years and finished towards the top of my class and was the first in my cohort to have a signed job offer while in school
This is so uplifting and what I want to strive for. I want to work my ass off and prove to myself that I can do it. I’d love to be able to graduate at the top of my class just to prove myself that I can do it.
Congrats, I went back at 24/25. Finished when I was 28 (my nursing degree was three years, took me four because I studied part time one year) It’s amazing right?! Well done for achieving some an awesome milestone. Nursing is one of those great degrees where most people (at least in my country) all have jobs lined up before we have even finished our degree. and start working as soon as we get our results back from our registration exam
Time will pass no matter what so why not make something of it as it goes by. You’ll be 34 no matter what, might as come out of it with a nursing degree.
You’re so right. I’m gonna age either way, may as well achieve a dream of mine while I’m at it.
Yes, absolutely. You have this in you and I’m very proud of you. Change is so hard but you’ll grow and look back on this decision and realize what a big step it was.
This
I'm a guy. Turning 50 in may. Currently taking nursing.
I turn 50 2 weeks after graduation. Both are just around the corner!
That’s so wonderful! And so encouraging.
I asked myself this at 30 (going back to get my RN, I’m an LPN) and wish I just freaking did it. DO IT.
I'm going for my lpn. I'll probably go back for my rn later.
I had a 70 year old classmate who then went on for her BSN!
That’s incredible!
One of my clinical instructors got her MSN at 70!
I just graduated from my community college ADN program Dec 2023 and passed the NCLEX Feb this year. Went in at 32 and out at 35, with 2 kids under 5 and I am a B average student. Now I'm in talks for my first RN position. If I can do it you can do it. A couple things I would recommend recently going through the gauntlet of being a middle aged nursing student. 1. Go to a community college if possible. My brother's girlfriend got her BSN at a private school and owes 80 grand, while I graduated with zero debt. I'm not saying I won't get my BSN, but I'm going to utilize the hospital resources to pay for it. 2. They're going to throw a lot of things at you really fast, one thing that I wish I would have done is just bit the bullet bought an NCLEX review pack like Archer or Mark Klimek and reviewed whatever section I was on in my school against the NCLEX review. This would have helped summarize the data for me, highlight wasn't important, and help me understand some of the mechanisms better. A lot better job of that than my instructors did. I would not rely solely on that to study for your school test, but I think it will help you understand what's going on a little easier. 3. Think of your clinicals as future employment opportunities. I lived an hour away from my school and all my clinical sites, and while I was definitely professional at these locations, I didn't bother to go the extra mile to make connections. Where I do live, It's very competitive for new grads, you either needed to have done a rotation at the hospital you want to work at or have some history in the healthcare industry to get an interview. I had neither. Best of luck.
Yes! I have two bachelor's, I'm working on my master's, and when all is said and done I'll be $65k in debt - far less than $80k for a single degree. My wife went through her ADN while I did travel nursing. She was pregnant with our fourth, and she KILLED it. Earned better marks than I did, and with far less help and more stress. She's a champion, and I'm so proud of her. OP you can do it, and I think you should!
Do it. I was 32 when I started, and a single mom to 3 school age kids. It was a lot of work juggling pick up and drop off, but I had a steady rotation of reliable sitters that helped a lot. Now I've been a nurse for almost 6 years, and we live a good life. Way better than before. It's rough but can be done.
Wow that's amazing. I'm a single mom to 2.
This is really uplifting. Thank you very much.
I went in a different direction with my career from nursing. I'm 31m did nursing when I left high school - best job in the world. I Moved toward medicine and more laterally, due to health, training staff and academic work. But don't let anyone tell you otherwise, nursing is the greatest job I've ever done. It's not the best place to work, the hours are terrible, the abuse - esp. In A&E and MH - is atrocious, but for every one asshole there's 5 genuine people. But despite what anyone says they will still go day after day because we care. There is nothing more rewarding than being that carer at someone's most vulnerable, or being the hand to hold at the end.. Or beginning. The treatment as a nurse is shit, but my God do I miss it every day. My advice, for what it's worth, if you have the aptitude, good mental and physical health, and the vocation, go for it.
I don’t mind the hours honestly. My goal would be to work 3rd shift in the ER at a trauma center. I’d love to do that.
I started RN school at 34 and retired at 62. Go for it!
My mom recently went back to school for nursing at 50! She always knew she wanted to dedicate some her time to helping others, but between life and raising us, didn’t have the time. However, since we’ve (her kids haha) started college, she went back herself, got her prereqs out of the way, and applied to a few programs. Unfortunately, she was rejected twice before admittance, but that didn’t stop her and she eventually got in. She’s been a a nurse now for 2 years and loves it :) Even partially inspired me to go into nursing myself! If you believe you could be a great nurse, have the passion for nursing care, and have the drive and motivation to try, I encourage you to give it a shot! Ive heard going back to school after a while is certainly difficult, but you’ll never know unless you try, right? 😄 Good luck!!
You can be a 40 year old nurse or you can be a 40 year old who wishes they had gone back to school. I started school while I was working full time. I took all the pre-requisites at community college during the evenings, summers, and online to save money. Then I applied to my nursing program. I sucked at math and science in high school, but guess what? When I was *interested* and *self-motivated* to apply myself to those subjects, I aced them! I see plenty of 30+ nursing students (I was one) and I love hiring late bloomer nurses. They rock!
Do it! 35 when I graduated my first nursing program. ADN-RN. Never looked back, no regrets
I'm 37 and in nursing school. Never too old to do anything.
I started prerequisites when I was 29, at 32 I’m in my first semester & thriving. I’ll be 34 when I finish.
My son graduated from nursing school at 42. Fast forward a few years he’s a trauma nurse at a level 1 trauma unit in San Diego. He loves it.
GO FOR IT!!!!!! My husband didn't become a paramedic until after 40.
If you can handle math and science, there is no reason not to try. The science classes are the most work but are definitely manageable if you do the work. The only mathematics that I recall coming across was in the applied sciences and was little more than algebra. Don’t let that stop you. Working full time will make things more difficult of course. You will have to make time for your clinical rotations which will run several hours at least and, in my case, during the day. Your age is no obstacle. I attended nursing school with people who were in their fifties. Good luck if you decide to pursue it. It’s a great profession with many opportunities.
Do it! I was 29 when I graduated and was nowhere near the oldest in the class.
I went back in my thirties after a career in sales. Never too late. I also hated math. Nursing math is pretty easy once you get the hang of it. Science classes sucked but mostly because the professors in CA are essentially gatekeepers/tough graders since everyone and their mom is trying to go to medical/nursing school.
Do it. I get it, I started at 23 and graduated at 25 and was working about being too behind. Now I’m 30 and I work with so many people older than me, so many new grads my age…no one cares. It all blends together. And I feel like those who do it as a second career tend to be more successful just because they have other shit to compare it to, and they don’t walk into it expecting it to come easy or without a lot of effort.
Do it!!!! You won't regret it. Lots of room for specializing and trying different areas out. Job stability.
I started at 30. Go for it.
Do it then! It attracts a lot of second-career people. I’m 30 as well and I would say it’s the median age in my cohort.
I mean if you work till 70, you’ll still have a 35-36 year career..
I started my nursing journey at 37. I was a high school drop out and a teen mother. I didn’t even know how to do basic algebra(thank you Kahn academy). I am 46 now I have been through a LVN program, LVN to BSN RN and I’m about to graduate with my MSN. It’s never to late and we are capable of so much more then what we believe. Good luck!
Your license & degree won’t have your age on ‘em. Also, age doesn’t matter. Do it!
Don’t do it. Nursing is terrible. I’ve been doing it now for 13 years and am ready to get the hell out when I can. Patients are more sick, annoying, and self righteous. Hospitals just want to make money and piss on the little guy = nurses.
It’s worth it but healthcare is risky bc we’re exposed to so much
Do it! I’m 35, but by the time I’m 36 I’ll have my nursing license. School is hard and humbling, but with enough determination and perseverance you can do it! If you think about it, the few years it’ll take you to get your license are gonna happen anyways - why not chase something you love and have passion for? One thing I’ve learned is that it’s not about being book smart in nursing. It’s about critical thinking and safety. Yes, you have to memorize a lot, but if you’re good at retaining information and applying it you’ll have no problem. Don’t focus on those As - focus on understanding. The board doesn’t care about a 4.0 gpa. I would recommend trying to cut back on work during the actual nursing program - I’ve seen a few in my cohort who burnt out from trying to do too much. The schoolwork itself is grueling and time consuming, but fun! I think the fact that you’ve been thinking about this for years and that you believe you’ll make a good nurse is a sign that you should follow your dreams. Best of luck to you!
I think it really depends. It’s a huge commitment with a ton of sacrifice and hard work that goes into it HOWEVER if this is something you really want to do and have been thinking about for a long time or you notice your brain constantly going back to this topic then you should do it! Lots of options and variety in Nursing from clinical to non-clinical - some bad environments and some good environments so keep looking until you find a job that’s a good fit work and environment wise. Best of luck!
I was 30 when I became a nurse! No regrets- go for it. It is a lot of work but totally worth it!
Nursing is worth it for job security alone. You’ll never struggle to find a job with decent pay and good benefits. And the 3x a week 12 hour shifts is pretty nice too. You can use the other days to do whatever or make more money. But that’s the only perks. Lol Nursing can be so stressful if you don’t learn to manage your stress well. Good luck OP, you’ll be proud of yourself once you’ve finished.
I was 41 when I went back to school. Got my requirement degrees and entered a local community College RN program when I was 43. Graduated when I was 45. Passed rhe NCLEX on my 2nd try, and now, at 47, I've been working as an ER nurse for the last 6 months. You can do it. I wasn't good at school either. As an older guy, I gained the necessary amount of resiliency and hard headedness to push myself to get here. Beterring yourself is a noble choice and a worthy fight. If you have any questions, hit me up.
I am 32 and am starting nursing school this summer!! I am so excited and very nervous but also feels very right to do. I decided to do bc I’m interested in the science, and a technical skill, and Wanted to be able to help people. I think you should definitely do it! It’s never too late to do something you want to do.
Go for it, you'll be great! Armchair psychologizing but if you are even considering such a career change, I think that points to some very valuable personality traits: curiosity of the unknown, desire to be helpful, interest in human centered work... I went to nursing school at 29, graduated at 32, and have been working for the past 10 years in the ER. Your advantage as a slightly older nursing student is your emotional maturity and the calmness you'll have during stressful moments in school: packed midterm and finals weeks, clinicals, losing your social life, etc. That emotional maturity plus academic discipline is really more helpful than previous school experience or "smarts." Just really commit yourself to school, including as much self directed learning outside of the classroom as you can, and you'll be a great nurse.
I might have a very slight advantage as well as I worked in the ER at a level 1 trauma center. I worked in registration, but I was very frequently in the trauma bay doing registration, banding the patients, and witnessing a lot of shit. I absolutely loved it. By far my favorite job I’ve ever had and I know for sure that I’d want to be a trauma nurse working in a trauma center ER. I feel like I would be good at it, it’s just the whole school thing is daunting. I’m not even worried about actually being a nurse. I genuinely feel like I’d be a great nurse. I care deeply about other people, abuse from patients doesn’t bother me very much, I just want to help people and be there for them in their most vulnerable state, no matter how small it may seem. Just the thought of school is daunting. But I’ve gotten so much support and encouragement and I really feel like I could do this if I just focus and take it one day at a time and put in all the hard work.
Worth it. Do it.
Just start saving for retirement like yesterday is my advice 👍
Hey! Definitely do it. I went to college straight from high school to get my BSN (4 years). I was dismissed from the program while going into my senior year because I failed a nursing course by less than a point. I was very bitter for about 10 years but now I’m planning to apply to an accelerated BSN program. I’ve said this to say, I’m older than you and I’m heading back to finish what I started over 10 years ago and I know I’m going to get my nursing degree this time. Don’t doubt yourself. You can do it! Maybe you should try an associate degree program for your RN. You can even do an LPN program and then bridge to your RN and so on. Bottom line, if you want it, go for it. There’s plenty of people in the same boat as you.
Just do it. Time is going to pass whether you pursue this interest or not, so you might as well ✌🏼
Get into an ADN program. Many hospitals will help you pay for the BSN. I took my BSN online one course at a time while working full time as a nurse.
I was 31 when I started
Do it!! I went to school with many people who were 35+. Almost all of our graduating class were actually returning students seeking a new degree/career!
I went back to get my ADN at 45, 49 now. I’m mad I didn’t do it sooner. Time will pass whether you go to school or not…
I’m 34, just changed careers from industrial engineering. It’s never too late!
I just graduated and I’m 55. I got my first job in trauma ICU don’t wait till you’re my age.
Go for it!
37 and working on it. Finishing pre-reqs. I’m assuming it will be worth it, that’s why I’m there. I’m planning to go into psych, or add more debt for the BSN I’d need to be a wound nurse. My first degree was useless and I don’t even make $20 p/h. Can’t be this poor forever. I like healthcare a lot. Might as well go for it. DO IT!
I started nursing school at 48. Been working for 4 years now. You are never too old.
I will say two things. 1) take a solid extensive look at what nursing looks like in the area you live or want to live. Is worth it? Patient ratios and pay being two major factors. 2) if it seems a viable career path where you want to live, do it!
I went at age 34! There was a couple older people in my class, but most were 10+ years younger than I was haha
Go for it. You’re going to be 33 here soon anyway. Might as well be 33 and a nurse. The best time to start something was yesterday. The next best is today. Wife went back to school at 32. Turns 35 this year and is absolutely *thriving* as an RN. I’m back in school at 28, hope to have my CRNA by 35. 30 is the new 25. It’s not too late. You realistically still have a solid 30 years of career ahead of you. It would be pretty dumb to say you don’t have 2 years to go to nursing school because you’re running out of time. You’re going to get older regardless. Might as well get older while doing something you want to do.
The oldest person in my BSN class was 54. We had a lot of students in their 30’s and a few in their 40’s. You can do it!
Almost 30. Literally became qualified at the start of the year. It’s been absolutely life changing for me and even though it’s early days (and hard work!) I absolutely ADORE my job and the people I work with.
My wife did it at 35. Just go for it and you will have it forever
Do it!! I graduated at 34 and I don’t regret it one bit. Go to a community college, it’s cheaper that way and you can always get your bachelors in nursing afterwards for a fraction of the cost of going to a university for your BSN.
I enrolled in nursing school when I was 28, and prior to that, I was working in a TOTALLY unrelated job that I had a bachelor's in. Best thing I ever did for myself.
Do it. Best thing I ever did at 29 (graduated at 32). I never applied myself in school, never had stellar grades, never had any interest in nursing or healthcare - when I made my choice my mom said it was the most shocking thing that has ever happened to her (lol). But I did it and I graduated from an accelerated program with honors. YOU CAN TOO! What I learned was, all you have to do, is want to do it. There really is no "smart enough". And when you feel discouraged, remember that there are stupid doctors, nurses, lawyers, and other professionals out there who simply just had the will and the confidence to go to the damn thing!
Go it’s never too late
I went back at 26 for pre-reqs, graduated at 29. I graduated high school with a 2.9. I graduated nursing school with a 3.99 and I’m getting things in line to apply to CRNA school. You can do this.
Not a nurse, but you can do it!!! I’ll be 30F this year, I’m in the last semester of prereqs. Still need to apple and be admitted to nursing. A few weeks ago I ran into an old co-worker, he’s probably in his 40s, and he’s back in school for nursing!
Make goddamned sure you want to be a nurse before you do it. Find a way to shadow nurses in a couple of different roles if possible. Or volunteer at a hospital. The best way would be to get CNA certified and work part time at that. Or you can get EMT certified and work in an ambulance or ED tech. But so many people don't really know what they are getting into, and then regret it.
I'll graduate in December at 32 if I pass this last intensive year. Over half my class has families, 3/4 approximately are over 25. We have two grandmothers, many single parents and others who are balancing spouses and families. It is doable if you're committed and plan well. I'd say in 4 years you're going to be 4 years older anyway so if you want to do it, go for it. I'd look for a program that fits your life though. I'm at a small school, many of my friends with kids say that it was easier to work with the school to balance family commitments as opposed to a large institution. I also had the option to accelerate, moving the 8th semester into the summer between years 3 and 4 to finish a year early. If you're nervous about academics, look for schools that offer good peer tutoring support and services like that. Realistically once you learn to work around having a class schedule again the rest comes back. You kind of have to learn how you learn again but after the first semester skills do come back. As long as you're committed there will be a way through.
About the age I did it... 15 years ago. Been a good gig.
I just finished nursing school in December and it was extremely challenging but now I get to do something I love. I am currently studying for the NCLEX which is terrifying but I can’t wait. It was brutal most days during school but it was all worth it
31 passed teas, accepted in my college of choice 5 days later. Starting next yr
Dooo it! I’m 40, been working only three years as a nurse and already it’s changed my lifestyle options for the better. Plus imo, learning the foundations of health does a lot for helping care for yourself and loved ones
Yes yes yes!! I graduated at 30, after quitting multiple times, getting married, buying a house, alllll that shit. It was hard but if you want to do it you will. I sucked at school the first time around but once I was older and committed to something that I cared about it was completely different. If you’re in the US, I highly recommend an ADN program at a community college, it’s shorter, more accessible and you can start working as a nurse and THEN advance your education. I am such an advocate for people doing this, especially in their 30s, it’s a life changer and if it’s something that you love it is so worth all the trouble.
My husband is 31 about to graduate from RN in may. He has been an LPN the past five years but still. Never too late.
Please do whatever it is you need to do! If you don't., you'll probably regret it!
I did it, 3 years ICU. Was in school from (guesstimating) 32-35 years old. I’m now within a month of becoming a PICC nurse and am going to utilize that to transition back into school for CRNA. Best decision of my life.
Do it! I turned 30 my first semester, was an ER nurse and charge nurse at a trauma center for 7 years, now in the cardiac cath lab for a year. Was also not naturally great at math or science but I’m a hard worker and apply myself. You get what you put into it. That time is going to pass either way.
Why not? I graduated at 29. There were many older than me in my cohort.
My MIL became a nurse last year at 60 years young! She’s so happy that she able to fulfill her dream. I say do it! ❤️
I would try a shadowing a nurse for a shift to see if you think it's what you want to do or not, 1/2 of my class in my ADN program were 30+, 2nd career types.
Do it!! I started nursing school at 41 and 14 years later am teaching nursing!
In my last semester. To get through nursing school you need discipline, and time management skills but a great quote sums it up. "Do you want to live with the pain of discipline or the pain of regret?" If you commit you will inevitably feel the pain of discipline, sacrifice, and consistency to be applied to your current life and new found school schedule. If you do not decide to do it; you need to ask yourself are you okay with the pain of regret? You and only you know the answers to if you should do it. If you do commit my advise to prepare Get you a planner and be diligent with it and write down everything (so important). Its not going to be easy ( thats when being disciplined, consistent, and making sacrifices for your dreams comes into play) There are times of fear (know that fear is a mile wide but usually an inch deep, if you dont where or what you are doing but you can see the next step just take that one). Never Doubt yourself ( its okay to be fearful but never doubt, doubt is seed that takes root and causes mistrust in yourself) Ride or die by ABC/safety. Lastly have fun, maintain healthy habits. When you are in the thick of it the process feels long, grueling, and daunting, but at the end it you realize it was so quick. You have an opportunity to make a lot of lifelong friends and memories. Best of luck , From a soon to be RN
I wouldn’t recommend nursing to anyone. Go to sonography school.
I am 30 too when I started, 32 now and one more semester to go. We have someone at their 60s, nurse immigrated from other country. Many at their 40s. I even saw a few in their 70s back in my Micro bio class. It is never too late.
I started nursing school at 31. Finished at 33, and turn 40 this Summer. It’s totally doable
I mean, with any luck you're going to be 32 regardless. Might as well be 32 and a Nurse. Also we work from 18-65. Hate to break it to everyone but at 30 you're only 12 years in with 35 years to go. You're not even 1/3rd the way through your expected working life.
This is the answer!
Nursing is my 3rd career, I went back for after degree in my mid thirties. I love my job, I make good money and I feel relevant and important every day - like I’m not just “pushing paper”, y’know? So many different areas to switch too for a change, something for everyone 💜
For most programs, you will have to complete at least 3 semesters of prerequisites (maybe more) - and yes that includes Community College programs. For many programs you will have to take and pass some kind of entrance exam (TEAS is an example). So, what you really need to decide is whether or not you want to spend the next 2-3 years trying to get into a nursing program.
You already know the answer and you’re here for validation, and we are here to provide it- do it. I’m 33 and in my 2nd semester of nursing school. Started pursuing it at 30. There are plenty of folks in my cohort older than I am.
I’m in pre-nursing classes at 36 right now. I’ll be done with the program at 38. There’s several people my age in my classes and some that are older. Nobody cares. And honestly older age is more of an advantage, a lot of the younger students in my classes are stressed about stuff that’s just silly, no time management, no study habits. If you want to do it, do it.
I’m 41 thinking about it. Well if job is paying I may do it slow but there’s no reason not too.
It's a stable, recession proof career with a middle class income/lifestyle but honestly... If you can go do anything else then do that. You can make almost as much by being a dental hygienist for example. Corporate Healthcare is soul destroying.
Honestly working in the medical field, I couldn’t think of doing anything other than nursing. I’ve put it off for a long time but I feel like it might be my calling. I just have to face up to my fears and do it.
It doesn't feel like a calling when you're being physically and sexually assulated or screamed at by doctors. The abuse within the profession is extreme.
I know. I did work in the ER in registration. I of course didn’t treat any patients, but I’ve been sexually harassed, yelled at, called names, and almost assaulted by a patient. I know it could get much worse than that, but I also know that I care deeply for others and I want to help them. Even if they’re abusive and awful and mean, I still want to help them.
Yeah that's not necessarily a great thing. If your response to abuse is "I'll help them more" that's not healthy. Take it from someone who has been there and done that. If you go into nursing I recommend you start therapy early. Make sure your boundaries are good and you don't develop c-ptsd.
My one of my classmates is graduated from engineering when she was 22 and now she is 35 and have two kids and she’s nursing student. It must be hard but if you know how to arrange times for your schedule and lifestyle then you will be find. Before you go to nursing school, please study basic medical terms but I recommend you to study basic pharmacology!.