HI!!
I decided to go back to school to become a nurse when I looked into the eyes of my newborn and knew that I financially had nothing to offer her. When she was born I only made about $11 bucks an hour (and my husband was/is a police officer). NOW, it was probably post-partum depression
but, my daughter was my motivation. I already had all but 3 of the pre-req classes completed (due to an associates degree in criminal justice) so, all I had to do was the actual nursing program. I entered the program when my daughter was 6 months old. I won't lie----IT WAS DIFFICULT, however, my graduation/pinning was one of the proudest moments of my life. My family was fully supportive AND my husband was my biggest fan. I did loose some "friends" along the way. Those who are not in the program (or who are not nurses) have no understanding of the sacrifices to be made. Honestly, I made my education first priority. Now, some may disagree but...........nursing school was even a priority over my child and husband. Study groups, spur of the moment exams, medication cards, clinicals, diagnosis reports, etc, etc, etc, were all for my child, husband, and myself. You see, I had to miss some moments with my husband and daughter to see my dream come true. I passed the state boards Sept. of 2004. I currently make $32 dollars an hour, just had another daughter, can afford to work contingent to spend more time at home, AND still married to a patient (and giving) husband. What I did was for "us".
Now, my sister is also an RN and she had just the opposite supportive relationship. She entered the nursing program with 2 small children and a spouse who would sabotage their only vehicle prior to her leaving for school. He would also never come home (the night before exams) with hopes that she would be kicked out of the program. He repeatedly told her that she spent too much time at school and if she walked out that door, she didn't love their children. Needless to say, she's been a RN for about 10 years now, remarried, and happy.
Go where your heart tells you to. YOU CAN DO IT!! My sister was my inspiration---let her be yours!!!!
Good luck AND God bless!!!
novice