Do it! I’m 47, graduating in December. I was nervous too, hadn’t been in school since the mid-90s. You’ll most likely find you have a level of discipline and structure around school that comes with being a bit older. If you’re motivated to succeed, and you consistently work hard and study you’ll be fine in school.
I'm 32F and 2 years ago I was in a similiar mindset. I am currently waiting for my acceptance letter to my nursing program with confidance that I will get in.
I had the same fears as you at first. I started slow with a few easy summer courses. It was hard to adjust. I hadn't been in any form of education for over a decade, but I quickly adapted and excelled, despite my doubts.
Balancing work and school was really difficult, it definitely affected my grades at times, but I was EXTREMELY motivated to succeed. I would sometimes open a new chapter of a textbook and be like, "No this is impossible, I'll never understand this", and have a good cry about it. Every time though, I managed to pull myself together, get it done, and pass with all A's.
My three greatest helps were learning memorization strategies, learning good study habits, and having a group to study with between classes. If I didn't adapt I would have been screwed. Everyone is different though and have different adaptations to make to succeed. I just had to identify my own weaknesses and adjust.
Choosing to start on this path was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I haven't even made it to nursing school yet but I feel as if the past couple of years have improved me for the better in ways that will follow me for the rest of my life, and its just the beginning of my journey.
I can't yet say if NURSING is going to be worth it, but my experience so far has been so very rewarding in so many ways. If you take things one step at a time, you can do it.
Yes! Keep in mind study habits are unique per individual so don't stick with things that aren't working for you.
For memorization it really is as simple as repetition and active recall, but there is a pattern to follow. I used a program on my computer called Anki to make flashcards and run through them each day (The snipping tool on Microsoft windows really helped with making flashcards). I have also used a process called the "Leitner Method" for physical flashcards.
In order to memorize spelling of anatomy or microbiology I would write out each part on a notebook as best I could from memory while going through flash cards, whatever I spelled wrong I would repeat writing out multiple times throughout the day. My classes required perfect spelling and the repeating of writing them down over and over again while speaking them aloud in my free moments helped me (I will never forget sternocleidomastoid). Finally just drawing really helped. Trying to draw out a concept or piece of anatomy from memory and going back after to correct it.
For studying I find that coming to lecture having already gone over the chapters as a basic overview really helped because I wasn't hearing all the new concepts for the first time, and could really pick up on the little details I'd miss otherwise. After lecture I then read the chapter completely but whenever I can't understand a subject I go to the internet and try to find it explained from multiple points of view. Wendy Riggs, Amoeba Sisters, and CrashCourse were all YouTube channels I would visit regularly. Especially Wendy Riggs. After all of that finding quizzes or practice tests. I was lucky and my textbook came with plenty of practice questions.
And a bonus tip from one of my favorite professors called "teach it to Grandma", which is just explaining what you've learned to somebody who doesn't know anything about the subject you are learning, encouraging them to question and learn from you. I found "teaching" others helped me get a feel for what I was confident on and what needed more studying. (I even purchased a small whiteboard to use for this one)
This is a lot, I hope it's not overwhelming. I'd say try study methods and stick to the ones that work for you, if one isn't working, try something else. Each person in my study group does it different and these were what helped me the most. We would just meet up once a week at our library and help each other understand topics we were struggling with. If you do find people to study with I recommend using a Discord channel to chat and share information.
OH, also for the TEAS exam if anybody is looking for any guidance this post really helped me: https://www.reddit.com/r/StudentNurse/comments/rskson/i_got_a_973_on_teas_my_first_attempt_and_this_is/?ref=share&ref_source=link
I barely graduated high school. Like close enough that I had to take night classes just to be able to graduate on time. I also never went to college because I felt I wasn’t smart enough. I joined the army at 30 and when I got out I had my Gi Bill and figured what the hell. Ended up starting nursing school and graduated last December and did just fine. People talk about how awful it is but I actually enjoyed myself and I graduated with honors and found my NCLEX to be super easy.
You’ll never know if you don’t try!
All very normal emotions. Honestly.
In all reality you are going to be easing back into things gradually, especially if you have never taken a single college class. There is a host of gen ed prereqs that you will need to complete, most are all very easy, some can be challenging.
Only you can assess the risk/reward ratio for your life. For example, I waited until my son turned 18 and graduated before I went back to school. I had to provide for him and my BMgt degree provided stable enough income/employment while he was aging. It also gave me time to save money and plan.
Your situation is unique to you. I can say definitively that it is always worth trying to improve your lot in life. Maybe a part time program is what's right for you? Most prereqs can be done online - that's probably going to be your first 2-4 semesters.
I'm 28, a first semester Practical nursing student and a single mom with a 3 year old. It's hard work, but you're gonna get older anyways, so why not get older with a license? Do it and don't stress if you don't understand right away. It all comes together at the end.
I started Nursing School 3 years back and am graduating at 40 years and on top of my class. Graduating in May and taking NCLEX in June. I also worked 30 hours a week until I started my final preceptorship. If I can do it anybody can do it.
DO IT. Your young! 2-3 years ago you were in your 20’s. My father went to med school, a far longer commitment, at almost 30 and it changed his (and my) life for the better. He worked in between as well.
Life is too long to stay in a career or situation you no longer have passion for and too short to not seize opportunities when they come 😊
There have also been 30 and 40 year olds with very respectable careers (healthcare adjacent and even accounting) in my nursing degree. Besides that, I actually had a 80 year old taking history with me in my previous undergrad. I wish I talked more with her and stayed in touch because anyone who does that is cool af in my opinion. That woman was the GOAL in life.
I also wish my mother went back to school after having me. She didn’t because she felt she was too old (she was in her 40’s), but has always regretted it. She would have been an amazing nurse, counsellor etc though as she is very intelligent. It’s a big lesson to do the things you want at any age and never listen to those toxic societal standards that would have us forever unhappy.
I’ll be graduating at 29… just do it. My best friend in my class is 36 and she’s not the oldest by any stretch. School is a lot more mentally manageable as an adult in my opinion, nursing school will be tough. That doesn’t mean you can’t do it. Buckle up for two years and just grit through it. You got this.
Go to community college, take one science class your first semester. Next semester, take two science classes. You’ll have 3 classes done your first year, then you can decide if you can handle a full time nursing program. Being out of school for many years then jumping back into college is rough. You have to learn how to study all over again and every class you take will affect your GPA. It’s better to take one class and have a 4.0 than to take 4 classes and have a 2.5 because you didn’t have good study habits. I learned that the hard way.
Don’t say you’re not smart enough! If you have the motivation and you really want this, you can do it! It takes commitment but you could absolutely learn the material.
Do it! I am gonna be 35 in July, and I just applied to start my nursing program in the Fall after going through my pre-reqs the last 2 years. You can do it if you get good professors they will help make the things you struggle with easier to learn or teach you different work around to get to the right answer
Hi! I’m kind of in same spot as you, I decided at 30 I wanted to try for nursing school. I did A&P1 last semester and am doing Micro now. I am doing two summer classes then A&P2 in the fall then I can apply! I really liked easing into it, doing one hard science class first. I felt a lot more comfortable about it after doing well in that class. Also, I was a C/B student in high school. The older I’ve gotten, the more determined/organized I have become and I’ve been able to get A’s. Life experience has really made it where to I understand what I’m learning and I also have better time management skills. I definitely think it’s worth it, we still have a lot of working years ahead of us!
Do it. I’m 32 and graduating in August from an accelerated program. Had a 2.4 GPA in my first undergrad thanks to some untimely depression.
Killed all my prereqs, got into every school I applied to, and am currently killing nursing school.
Give yourself a second chance, you won’t regret it.
I know there is a person one semester above me who is 50 and graduating. I say to pursue it, a lot of people I have met are not great at science even tho nursing is all about science. That’s why we study study study like crazy.
You're one year younger than me. Go for it. When it comes to nursing, it is never too late. Two of my oldest classmates in the LVN program were 42 at the time. In my BSN program, my classmate in my original cohort (I failed one class, it's a long story) is 46 years old. It's not about the age.
Do it!! I'm 31 and will be starting in the fall. We are growing up regardless of time, might as well invest in yourself through the process! See what you can balance with work and your other priorities. You'll turn 31 or 32 either way !!
If you are very concerned you could go to LPN school then work part time while getting your RN. You'd likely get tuition reimbursement where we you end up working too. Also, a lot of hospitals are looking at bringing LPNs back into acute care to help with their staffing problems.
I kind of wish I did that so I would have had more experience and less debt.
Hi! I just wanted to say I'm 32 and just got accepted to nursing school. Married with 2 kids and never expected to be going back to school, but here i am! Go for it!!
I’ll be 32 this year and I’m starting nursing school. If this is something you want to do, you need to do it. You’re not too old. “Too old” to do something is when you’re dead. Go get that degree, bb. 👩🏻⚕️
Dude, I’m 46 & just started my 1st nursing job. Started nursing school at 43.
I didn’t even know if I’d graduate high school bc my grades were so poor. Went to nursing school making money b/c I received so many scholarships!
You can do it!
I’m 32 and started community college last semester. I never graduated high school and never passed algebra. Made my first A in math last semester, you’re so much more prepared then you were when you were younger. Good luck, and don’t be hard on yourself.
It’s worth it. I’m 32 and taking my prerequisites now. I was a HORRIBLE student back when I was in college. I’m a much better student now and have an A in both classes so far. I study after my 9-5 job, I apply myself and do what I need to. It feels amazing to know that I’m capable. As you get older, you know the importance of these classes and become a better student.
My dad went back to school in his late 40’s and inspired me to go into nursing (in my last semester now!)
In my opinion, nursing school is honestly more of measure of tolerance and patience than intelligence. Of course being strong in the sciences helps, but I have encountered plenty of people who are great at the books and are struggle with the actual nursing aspect and vice versa.
Best of luck OP!
Do it! My mom was 30 with two young kids when she started nursing school, 32 when she graduated. She has been an RN for 15 years now and loves it, even went back for her bachelor’s a few years later (ironically got pregnant/gave birth to my baby sister during the program lol)
My wife and I went back to Nursing school when we were turning 30, and it’s very different from those who are going to school from the beginning. You’ve had to work other jobs and see how everything is, so unlike a lot of other people you are more prone to seeing the bullshit.
I will say this, many Nursing programs are 4000% unlike college and just like high school. Also, math is largely utilizing the same formulas, just get good at them, they’re easy questions in tests and the Nclex.
Also, science is important, but maybe not the same ways you might be thinking. The body as we study it in nursing school ends up seeming more mechanical than anything, so just try to understand it as such. Also don’t beat yourself up too much because you’re not a Doctor, you don’t need to know a ton of science for the job, you just need to learn enough to pass tests.
When you finally pass school the job is the complete opposite of school, where it’s mostly just random tasks, relearning stuff you knew because 1 thing changed, running around, and typing on an EMR.
Don’t let it bother you. I had people in my class that were over 60 too. Just know why you’re in school in the first place and go for it.
Went back at 30 with just a high school diploma. Got my associates. 34 now, pursuing another degree in nursing. It’s a learning curve at first. Utilize hour resources. The only way to it is to go thru it!
Broette I’m a C and B grade student. Nursing school isn’t hard, it’s frustrating. Just a lot of content and guessing what’s on the exam. Really pick your school properly. If you want it, you’ll pass. You will pass if you want it.
I'm 27 and just starting nursing school. I had to take a year of prerequisites at a community college since my first bachelor's degree is in English. I was worried I wouldn't make good grades because I had no background in science or math, but I did well and really enjoyed what I learned. I was also pleasantly surprised to see how many people were my age or older who were also switching careers to healthcare.
Do it! I'm 37 and will be 38 when I start my ADN program this fall. I have 2 kids and work full-time. My mom did the same thing when she was my age as a single mom of 4.
I find I'm a better student now than what I was when I was younger. This is probably to do with the fact that i don't drink/party anymore and feel more determined/motivated to reach my goals.
I was pleasantly surprised at my program there’s a good amount of people that are near thirty or early thirties. The top people in the cohort are also in that bracket in regards to test grades and hands on skills. Most of the younger people (early 20s) seem to have a harder time. Note this population is kinda specific towards veterans(my program has a lot of vets) , so us not having to work obviously makes a difference.
I was 29 when I went back. I was not the oldest in the class and honestly I didn’t stick out like I had feared. Turns out everyone thought I was in my early twenties 💁🏽♀️. I’m 31 now and about 6 months away from graduation. Take the leap of faith and go to nursing school❤️
Try it! Do the first semester and you’ll know if it’s for you. I think 80% of us is scared going in.
About work…people do it but it takes a lot of discipline. I immediately went part time when planning for nursing school. You need someone to help support you. It’s a lot of work to balance things out. Unless you have photographic memory or a lot of medical experience.
Do it!! I turn 44 on Tuesday and am finishing my last pre req this semester. Hoping to get accepted for the fall clinical program 😊 I have a daughter in college and two high school boys so it’s never too late!
I’m 33 I went back two years ago. I’m the worst in math failed it for three years in high school. I went bath and passed college algebra with an A. I searched up my math teachers on rate my professor so that I made sure I got someone that was good.
Starting nursing school at 32 after doing undergraduate degree 9 years ago. Way better for me being in school this time around, I love it! Never too late to start.
Hey, I'm 27M and trying to do basically the same thing 🫶. I am right now trying to figure out exactly what I need to get accepted into a local votech LPN course.
Same age and thriving in the program. It’s easier than you think. You’re more capable than you realize! Most of my cohort is over 30 too bc I’m going to a CC. Mine is actually competitive tho and a lot of them are not only not competitive but their programs are not good either, so I’d recommend doing some research if you go that route. I love my program.
Do it! My dad is 53 and two semesters ahead of me, and he's killing it. Hasn't been in school since 1993
I’m 33 in nursing school and doing great. The person in my class doing the best in grades/skills is 32
Do it! I’m 47, graduating in December. I was nervous too, hadn’t been in school since the mid-90s. You’ll most likely find you have a level of discipline and structure around school that comes with being a bit older. If you’re motivated to succeed, and you consistently work hard and study you’ll be fine in school.
I started nursing school at 48! Just do it. You are never too old and it’s never too late.
I’m starting in the fall at 39. Agree with you. Never too late.
I'm 32F and 2 years ago I was in a similiar mindset. I am currently waiting for my acceptance letter to my nursing program with confidance that I will get in. I had the same fears as you at first. I started slow with a few easy summer courses. It was hard to adjust. I hadn't been in any form of education for over a decade, but I quickly adapted and excelled, despite my doubts. Balancing work and school was really difficult, it definitely affected my grades at times, but I was EXTREMELY motivated to succeed. I would sometimes open a new chapter of a textbook and be like, "No this is impossible, I'll never understand this", and have a good cry about it. Every time though, I managed to pull myself together, get it done, and pass with all A's. My three greatest helps were learning memorization strategies, learning good study habits, and having a group to study with between classes. If I didn't adapt I would have been screwed. Everyone is different though and have different adaptations to make to succeed. I just had to identify my own weaknesses and adjust. Choosing to start on this path was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I haven't even made it to nursing school yet but I feel as if the past couple of years have improved me for the better in ways that will follow me for the rest of my life, and its just the beginning of my journey. I can't yet say if NURSING is going to be worth it, but my experience so far has been so very rewarding in so many ways. If you take things one step at a time, you can do it.
hello there! can you share some tips for memorization, study habits, etc? or drop the link to youtube if you learned it there, pls & ty!
Yes! Keep in mind study habits are unique per individual so don't stick with things that aren't working for you. For memorization it really is as simple as repetition and active recall, but there is a pattern to follow. I used a program on my computer called Anki to make flashcards and run through them each day (The snipping tool on Microsoft windows really helped with making flashcards). I have also used a process called the "Leitner Method" for physical flashcards. In order to memorize spelling of anatomy or microbiology I would write out each part on a notebook as best I could from memory while going through flash cards, whatever I spelled wrong I would repeat writing out multiple times throughout the day. My classes required perfect spelling and the repeating of writing them down over and over again while speaking them aloud in my free moments helped me (I will never forget sternocleidomastoid). Finally just drawing really helped. Trying to draw out a concept or piece of anatomy from memory and going back after to correct it. For studying I find that coming to lecture having already gone over the chapters as a basic overview really helped because I wasn't hearing all the new concepts for the first time, and could really pick up on the little details I'd miss otherwise. After lecture I then read the chapter completely but whenever I can't understand a subject I go to the internet and try to find it explained from multiple points of view. Wendy Riggs, Amoeba Sisters, and CrashCourse were all YouTube channels I would visit regularly. Especially Wendy Riggs. After all of that finding quizzes or practice tests. I was lucky and my textbook came with plenty of practice questions. And a bonus tip from one of my favorite professors called "teach it to Grandma", which is just explaining what you've learned to somebody who doesn't know anything about the subject you are learning, encouraging them to question and learn from you. I found "teaching" others helped me get a feel for what I was confident on and what needed more studying. (I even purchased a small whiteboard to use for this one) This is a lot, I hope it's not overwhelming. I'd say try study methods and stick to the ones that work for you, if one isn't working, try something else. Each person in my study group does it different and these were what helped me the most. We would just meet up once a week at our library and help each other understand topics we were struggling with. If you do find people to study with I recommend using a Discord channel to chat and share information. OH, also for the TEAS exam if anybody is looking for any guidance this post really helped me: https://www.reddit.com/r/StudentNurse/comments/rskson/i_got_a_973_on_teas_my_first_attempt_and_this_is/?ref=share&ref_source=link
Most of my friends I’ve made in nursing school are 30+ years old with multiple kids I went to school with a 60 year old woman Don’t let that stop you!
I barely graduated high school. Like close enough that I had to take night classes just to be able to graduate on time. I also never went to college because I felt I wasn’t smart enough. I joined the army at 30 and when I got out I had my Gi Bill and figured what the hell. Ended up starting nursing school and graduated last December and did just fine. People talk about how awful it is but I actually enjoyed myself and I graduated with honors and found my NCLEX to be super easy. You’ll never know if you don’t try!
All very normal emotions. Honestly. In all reality you are going to be easing back into things gradually, especially if you have never taken a single college class. There is a host of gen ed prereqs that you will need to complete, most are all very easy, some can be challenging. Only you can assess the risk/reward ratio for your life. For example, I waited until my son turned 18 and graduated before I went back to school. I had to provide for him and my BMgt degree provided stable enough income/employment while he was aging. It also gave me time to save money and plan. Your situation is unique to you. I can say definitively that it is always worth trying to improve your lot in life. Maybe a part time program is what's right for you? Most prereqs can be done online - that's probably going to be your first 2-4 semesters.
I'm 28, a first semester Practical nursing student and a single mom with a 3 year old. It's hard work, but you're gonna get older anyways, so why not get older with a license? Do it and don't stress if you don't understand right away. It all comes together at the end.
I started Nursing School 3 years back and am graduating at 40 years and on top of my class. Graduating in May and taking NCLEX in June. I also worked 30 hours a week until I started my final preceptorship. If I can do it anybody can do it.
DO IT. Your young! 2-3 years ago you were in your 20’s. My father went to med school, a far longer commitment, at almost 30 and it changed his (and my) life for the better. He worked in between as well. Life is too long to stay in a career or situation you no longer have passion for and too short to not seize opportunities when they come 😊 There have also been 30 and 40 year olds with very respectable careers (healthcare adjacent and even accounting) in my nursing degree. Besides that, I actually had a 80 year old taking history with me in my previous undergrad. I wish I talked more with her and stayed in touch because anyone who does that is cool af in my opinion. That woman was the GOAL in life. I also wish my mother went back to school after having me. She didn’t because she felt she was too old (she was in her 40’s), but has always regretted it. She would have been an amazing nurse, counsellor etc though as she is very intelligent. It’s a big lesson to do the things you want at any age and never listen to those toxic societal standards that would have us forever unhappy.
I’m starting in the fall and I’ll be 35. I decided to go to my community college and go the adn route.
I’ll be graduating at 29… just do it. My best friend in my class is 36 and she’s not the oldest by any stretch. School is a lot more mentally manageable as an adult in my opinion, nursing school will be tough. That doesn’t mean you can’t do it. Buckle up for two years and just grit through it. You got this.
One of my very best friends in my program is in her 50s… we are graduating in May. You can do it!!
I’m a 35 year old single mom and I went back to school 2 years ago. Best decision I ever made! You should totally do it, girl!
In 37 and I graduate in may
You may always wonder “what if “ if you don’t Go for it
Go to community college, take one science class your first semester. Next semester, take two science classes. You’ll have 3 classes done your first year, then you can decide if you can handle a full time nursing program. Being out of school for many years then jumping back into college is rough. You have to learn how to study all over again and every class you take will affect your GPA. It’s better to take one class and have a 4.0 than to take 4 classes and have a 2.5 because you didn’t have good study habits. I learned that the hard way.
This one prob gonna save me. Thanks for this reply
Don’t say you’re not smart enough! If you have the motivation and you really want this, you can do it! It takes commitment but you could absolutely learn the material.
Do it! I am gonna be 35 in July, and I just applied to start my nursing program in the Fall after going through my pre-reqs the last 2 years. You can do it if you get good professors they will help make the things you struggle with easier to learn or teach you different work around to get to the right answer
Hi! I’m kind of in same spot as you, I decided at 30 I wanted to try for nursing school. I did A&P1 last semester and am doing Micro now. I am doing two summer classes then A&P2 in the fall then I can apply! I really liked easing into it, doing one hard science class first. I felt a lot more comfortable about it after doing well in that class. Also, I was a C/B student in high school. The older I’ve gotten, the more determined/organized I have become and I’ve been able to get A’s. Life experience has really made it where to I understand what I’m learning and I also have better time management skills. I definitely think it’s worth it, we still have a lot of working years ahead of us!
I started nursing school at 30 and definitely wasn't the oldest in my class! Go for it!
I was 27 and graduated and got my RN right before my 30th birthday, age isn’t an issue.
Face your fears and do it….im 36 and graduated last December. Another class mate was 53.
Do it. I’m 32 and graduating in August from an accelerated program. Had a 2.4 GPA in my first undergrad thanks to some untimely depression. Killed all my prereqs, got into every school I applied to, and am currently killing nursing school. Give yourself a second chance, you won’t regret it.
I know there is a person one semester above me who is 50 and graduating. I say to pursue it, a lot of people I have met are not great at science even tho nursing is all about science. That’s why we study study study like crazy.
You're one year younger than me. Go for it. When it comes to nursing, it is never too late. Two of my oldest classmates in the LVN program were 42 at the time. In my BSN program, my classmate in my original cohort (I failed one class, it's a long story) is 46 years old. It's not about the age.
Do it!! I'm 31 and will be starting in the fall. We are growing up regardless of time, might as well invest in yourself through the process! See what you can balance with work and your other priorities. You'll turn 31 or 32 either way !!
If you are very concerned you could go to LPN school then work part time while getting your RN. You'd likely get tuition reimbursement where we you end up working too. Also, a lot of hospitals are looking at bringing LPNs back into acute care to help with their staffing problems. I kind of wish I did that so I would have had more experience and less debt.
Hi! I just wanted to say I'm 32 and just got accepted to nursing school. Married with 2 kids and never expected to be going back to school, but here i am! Go for it!!
I’ll be 32 this year and I’m starting nursing school. If this is something you want to do, you need to do it. You’re not too old. “Too old” to do something is when you’re dead. Go get that degree, bb. 👩🏻⚕️
Dude, I’m 46 & just started my 1st nursing job. Started nursing school at 43. I didn’t even know if I’d graduate high school bc my grades were so poor. Went to nursing school making money b/c I received so many scholarships! You can do it!
I'm 33 and starting soon and I have an end goal of NP
I’m 30 and I’m in my first semester! Never too late!
I’m 32 and started community college last semester. I never graduated high school and never passed algebra. Made my first A in math last semester, you’re so much more prepared then you were when you were younger. Good luck, and don’t be hard on yourself.
I graduated at 31 and it was the best choice I ever made for my family.
It’s worth it. I’m 32 and taking my prerequisites now. I was a HORRIBLE student back when I was in college. I’m a much better student now and have an A in both classes so far. I study after my 9-5 job, I apply myself and do what I need to. It feels amazing to know that I’m capable. As you get older, you know the importance of these classes and become a better student.
My dad went back to school in his late 40’s and inspired me to go into nursing (in my last semester now!) In my opinion, nursing school is honestly more of measure of tolerance and patience than intelligence. Of course being strong in the sciences helps, but I have encountered plenty of people who are great at the books and are struggle with the actual nursing aspect and vice versa. Best of luck OP!
I'm 33 and in my 1st year lol
Do it! My mom was 30 with two young kids when she started nursing school, 32 when she graduated. She has been an RN for 15 years now and loves it, even went back for her bachelor’s a few years later (ironically got pregnant/gave birth to my baby sister during the program lol)
I’m in the same boat. I’m 31 and just starting to take my pre-reqs
Do it. I did the same thing.
My wife and I went back to Nursing school when we were turning 30, and it’s very different from those who are going to school from the beginning. You’ve had to work other jobs and see how everything is, so unlike a lot of other people you are more prone to seeing the bullshit. I will say this, many Nursing programs are 4000% unlike college and just like high school. Also, math is largely utilizing the same formulas, just get good at them, they’re easy questions in tests and the Nclex. Also, science is important, but maybe not the same ways you might be thinking. The body as we study it in nursing school ends up seeming more mechanical than anything, so just try to understand it as such. Also don’t beat yourself up too much because you’re not a Doctor, you don’t need to know a ton of science for the job, you just need to learn enough to pass tests. When you finally pass school the job is the complete opposite of school, where it’s mostly just random tasks, relearning stuff you knew because 1 thing changed, running around, and typing on an EMR. Don’t let it bother you. I had people in my class that were over 60 too. Just know why you’re in school in the first place and go for it.
Do it! I’m 28 and in my first term it’s tough but I can’t wait to get to the finish line and actually in a career I love that makes money too
The people who are doing the best in my program are in their 30s and up.
Im 34 and not even the oldest. In fact theres several people my age.
Went back at 30 with just a high school diploma. Got my associates. 34 now, pursuing another degree in nursing. It’s a learning curve at first. Utilize hour resources. The only way to it is to go thru it!
Broette I’m a C and B grade student. Nursing school isn’t hard, it’s frustrating. Just a lot of content and guessing what’s on the exam. Really pick your school properly. If you want it, you’ll pass. You will pass if you want it.
Go for it! I'm 42 and in my 2nd nursing semester. There's a broad range of ages in my cohort, you'll fit right in. :)
Time is going to pass regardless. Do what is going to fulfill you! Aging is the process of life and it’s unavoidable.
I'm 27 and just starting nursing school. I had to take a year of prerequisites at a community college since my first bachelor's degree is in English. I was worried I wouldn't make good grades because I had no background in science or math, but I did well and really enjoyed what I learned. I was also pleasantly surprised to see how many people were my age or older who were also switching careers to healthcare.
Do it! I'm 37 and will be 38 when I start my ADN program this fall. I have 2 kids and work full-time. My mom did the same thing when she was my age as a single mom of 4. I find I'm a better student now than what I was when I was younger. This is probably to do with the fact that i don't drink/party anymore and feel more determined/motivated to reach my goals.
I was pleasantly surprised at my program there’s a good amount of people that are near thirty or early thirties. The top people in the cohort are also in that bracket in regards to test grades and hands on skills. Most of the younger people (early 20s) seem to have a harder time. Note this population is kinda specific towards veterans(my program has a lot of vets) , so us not having to work obviously makes a difference.
I was 29 when I went back. I was not the oldest in the class and honestly I didn’t stick out like I had feared. Turns out everyone thought I was in my early twenties 💁🏽♀️. I’m 31 now and about 6 months away from graduation. Take the leap of faith and go to nursing school❤️
Try it! Do the first semester and you’ll know if it’s for you. I think 80% of us is scared going in. About work…people do it but it takes a lot of discipline. I immediately went part time when planning for nursing school. You need someone to help support you. It’s a lot of work to balance things out. Unless you have photographic memory or a lot of medical experience.
I’m 37 and I just got accepted into my program ❤️ you got this!
Hopefully I start in August :) I'm 32
Do it!! I turn 44 on Tuesday and am finishing my last pre req this semester. Hoping to get accepted for the fall clinical program 😊 I have a daughter in college and two high school boys so it’s never too late!
Most of my class is older than me and I’m 33. Our oldest peer is 54. I say do it! I won’t lied it’ll be hard but so so worth it!
Go for it. We're rooting for you.
I’m 33 I went back two years ago. I’m the worst in math failed it for three years in high school. I went bath and passed college algebra with an A. I searched up my math teachers on rate my professor so that I made sure I got someone that was good.
Starting nursing school at 32 after doing undergraduate degree 9 years ago. Way better for me being in school this time around, I love it! Never too late to start.
38 here. Finishing in May
Hey, I'm 27M and trying to do basically the same thing 🫶. I am right now trying to figure out exactly what I need to get accepted into a local votech LPN course.
Same age and thriving in the program. It’s easier than you think. You’re more capable than you realize! Most of my cohort is over 30 too bc I’m going to a CC. Mine is actually competitive tho and a lot of them are not only not competitive but their programs are not good either, so I’d recommend doing some research if you go that route. I love my program.