My mom has now been a nurse for 20 years and she’s very, very good at her job.

On the plus side of her decision:
1. She was able to create a career where she could fully support herself and her family. At some point after graduation, she went through a messy divorce, but came out okay thanks to her nursing career.
2. The actual act of going to school, while difficult, was only temporary. So she’s a testament that even a mom of 3 can get through school with enough determination.
3. When she was in school, I remember her studying being very inspirational to me and possibly one reason that I wasted no time going to college myself right after graduation. Chances are, your kids will feel the same.
4. She makes a good living. She’ll never be rich, but she doesn’t struggle.
5. She clearly derives a great deal of reward from her work. She has built lasting friendships with both coworkers and patients and has received awards and accolades.
6. Her ability to handle a health crisis is bar none. I can’t tell you how much of a badass she is in that department–it’s awesome to have a nurse in the family.

On the negative side:
1. You are absolutely right, nursing is a hard career. My mom is emotionally, mentally, and physically exhausted from her job, especially now that she is in her 60s. She has had knee replacement surgery resulting from the miles and miles of walking she does at work and has back and foot pain too.
2. Sometimes she tells me she wishes she had chosen a different career–one that is less physically draining. She’s mentioned Real Estate as an option she might have chosen.

Overall, I’d say that in my mom’s case, going back to school for nursing was a positive life choice. It gave her the independence she needed to be able to take care of herself and her kids.

As you explore this idea, investigate what types of jobs are available in your area for people with the degree you are considering. I know you used to be able to get a good nursing job with a 2-year degree, but now more hospitals are demanding bachelor’s degrees. Also, be aware that you might have to start out working in a nursing home before you land a job at the hospital or in a doctor’s office.

Aside from all that, don’t let the fact that you’re 31 dissuade you from going back to school for a well considered career. If my mom could do it at 40, you can definitely do it at 31. 🙂

I hope this helps!

Naomi

Happy to help! You have a great day as well.

Thanks you naomi very very much. I really appreciate your advise. And I think I will continue, I know it’s going to be hard but at least I’m going to try it. Thank you for your words and also for the link you have send me it was really helpful. Sometime that’s all we need a real word and opinion from someone that we don’t even know to get back in the road. Have a good day and God bless you.

Hi Nani,
Only you can really answer this question for yourself. However, here are my thoughts on the subject.

From a very practical standpoint, going to school to become an optometrist looks like a great idea. It’s focused and has a clear, defined career path with good earning potential: http://www.wikiprofessional.org/Optometrist_Salary

As you consider this decision, think about the results if you do go to school and if you don’t go to school. What are the potential outcomes for both choices? If you don’t go to school what is your alternative plan? Does it have the same or better outcome as going to school?

Pick the path with the best outcome and pursue it without fear.

Good luck!
Naomi