How I Transitioned from a Non-Nursing Career to a Successful Nursing Career

My journey to becoming a nurse after a long stint in a different field is a story of determination, hard work, and reinvention. My background is rooted in a bachelor's degree in science, and I eventually passed the NCLEX, proving that it's never too late or too difficult to achieve a dream profession.

A Non-Nursing Career Turned Nurse

Before diving into nursing, I spent about 14 years in a software design role. Although the field was challenging and fulfilling in its own way, deep down, I always harbored a desire to become a nurse. However, life threw me some curveballs. I got married young and became a mother to three children, which made pursuing a career change seem daunting.

The turning point came when my manager at work suggested I consider an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) course offered by Yale New Haven Hospital. After taking the test and seizing the opportunity, I enrolled in a 12-month program, a decision I've never regretted. What follows is a detailed guide and firsthand experience to help others navigate this journey.

Getting Informed Before Making the Leap

If you're contemplating a similar career switch, here's some valuable advice:

Get Official Feedback: Speak with the school head or nursing program administrators to understand what support they offer before and during the program. Feedback from teachers can also be insightful, as it will give you an idea of the expectations and challenges you'll face.

Make an Informed Decision: Nursing is a highly rewarding career but can also be demanding. Consider if the job aligns with your values and aspirations. Don’t become a nurse just for the paycheck. The profession requires emotional resilience and a deep concern for others.

Prerequisites and Degrees: In your first year of college, focus on prerequisites for nursing school. Decide if you want to pursue an AS (Associate of Science) degree or a BS (Bachelor of Science) degree. A BS is often recommended if you're considering advanced roles such as a nurse practitioner, anesthetist, midwife, or case manager.

School Program: Apply to nursing programs based on your needs and priorities. Your nursing school advisor can assist you in enrolling in the required classes as you progress through the program.

Personal Journey and Challenges

My experience in nursing school was rigorous, to put it mildly. Although I graduated high honors in high school, nursing school was a significant challenge. I was in the top 5 of my high school class, but nursing school pushed me harder than I ever imagined. I was required to take a broader range of subjects, including advanced chemistry courses and a hefty workload in nursing clinicals.

Compared to current standards, my nursing program was more demanding. In my time, I had to take physics and complete a minor in chemistry with 21 credits, including a 6-credit advanced physical chemistry course. I also had to maintain a 3.0 GPA in the sciences, which was an additional stress factor. Many of my classmates struggled and eventually dropped out. About two-thirds of my class left, but I'm glad that the requirements have eased up in recent years.

Despite the challenges, I'm grateful for the experience. Nursing has enriched my life in countless ways. I have no regrets about my decision to become a nurse. In fact, I wish more people knew about the rewarding nature of the profession, though I understand that it requires a strong commitment and emotional fortitude.

So, if you're considering a career change to nursing, be prepared for hard work, but also prepare to be deeply rewarded. No matter the obstacles you face, the journey is worthwhile.

Thank you for reading my story. I hope it provides some guidance for those considering a similar transition.