It is common to find yourself dissatisfied with your current career. You may experience challenges like slow growth or low job fulfillment. In these cases, pursuing a second career provides an opportunity for personal and professional fulfillment. Unexpected life changes can also push you to seek a new career path. Your second career may also be necessary to supplement income. Here are a few reasons people choose nursing as a second career.
1. Fulfilling
Many individuals who pursue nursing as a second career have already experienced success in other fields. They are looking for more than just financial rewards. Many want to impact the world. Nursing provides a unique opportunity to do that. Nurses are on the front lines of patient care. They work with families during patients and their hard times. Nurses may offer guidance during confusing times. They work alongside physicians and other healthcare professionals to provide holistic care.
2. Earn Your Degree Online
You can earn your bachelor’s degree with 100% online coursework. The flexibility allows you to learn while pursuing your second career. You can plan your school work around work and other commitments. When choosing an ABSN program, ensure it is accredited.
3. Job Security
Healthcare is growing faster than most industries in the world. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects it to grow 13% from 2021 to 2031. As the population continues to age, healthcare needs increase. There is a growing demand for nurses. This demand translates into job security for nurses. Other industries that may be impacted by economic downturns or technological changes. However, healthcare will always be an essential service. Nursing skills will always be in demand. There will always be opportunities for growth and advancement within the field.
4. Competitive Salary
The median annual wage for registered nurses was $75,330 in May 2020. The top 10% earns more than $116,230. This makes nursing a financially attractive option for those looking for a second career. Many healthcare organizations offer a range of benefits. You may enjoy health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and continuing education opportunities.
5. Flexibility
Nurses can work in hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities. They can work full or part-time. They also have the option to work day, evening, or night shifts. This flexibility allows nurses to find a work schedule that fits their lifestyle and personal needs. For example, a nurse who is also a parent can work on a flexible schedule. This way, they can accommodate their family responsibilities. Similarly, a nurse who is also pursuing further education may opt for a part-time schedule to allow time for studying.
6. Opportunities for Professional Growth and Development
New treatments and technologies are introduced all the time. As such, nurses must continue to learn and grow throughout their careers. They must stay informed on the latest advancements. This ongoing learning allows nurses to develop new skills and pursue further education. Many nurses choose to specialize in a particular area of nursing. They may focus on pediatrics, oncology, or critical care. Specialization can lead to increased job opportunities and higher salaries.
Nurses can pursue higher education to advance their careers. Registered nurses can pursue bachelor’s or master’s degrees in nursing. They can become nurse practitioners or nurse anesthetists. Professional development promotes a sense of fulfillment. It opens up a wider range of career opportunities.
7. Collaboration and Community
Nursing allows you to work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals. Nurses work closely with physicians, therapists, and other healthcare providers. This collaborative approach allows nurses to learn from other professionals and to gain a deeper understanding of healthcare. Nursing offers a sense of community. Since nurses work together, they build a strong sense of teamwork and support. Nurses often build strong relationships with their colleagues and develop a sense of pride in their profession and work.
8. You Can Control the Population You Work With
You can choose the population you’ll be working with as a nurse. If you enjoy working with kids, you can work as a pediatrician. If you think you’d make a bigger impact with older people, geriatrics may be ideal for you. Controlling the population you work with can improve your sense of job satisfaction. Regardless of your beliefs, you may prefer a certain population. Working with them encourages care and compassion.
Nursing is an attractive second career option for individuals seeking a fulfilling and rewarding career. It offers job security, flexibility, and professional growth opportunities. The transition to nursing can be challenging. However, the right education, training, and support make things easier.
