Switching careers at 30 is the biggest decision you can make in life. Some believe it’s an orthodox choice, yet it’s surprisingly common. Millions of people change careers every year. Work-life balance is cited as the number one reason for changing jobs, and pay and benefits are other reasons why people prefer switching to another career.

Changing your career at 30 might feel risky, but it is still a sweet age for making the shift. That is because you’ve figured out what kind of work you enjoy and what type you don’t.

Many people in their 30s prefer switching to nursing because it’s rewarding. Nurses earn between $62,569 and $139,944. Besides, the emotional rewards they reap are unparalleled.

A career in nursing is lucrative, but the journey to becoming one is challenging. But don’t worry; these tips will make the transition easy.

#1 Get a Degree in Nursing

A crucial step to kickstart your career in nursing is to get a degree in the field. There are various educational pathways to becoming a nurse. A Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) will help you pursue a career in the field. But these two degrees won’t be the right choice for you since returning to college at or after 30 isn’t possible.

You can, however, pursue an accelerated BSN program (ABSN). Where the traditional BSN program is completed in four years, an ABSN program takes anywhere between 11 and 18 months. ABSN is designed for students who already have a bachelor’s or a higher degree in a non-nursing field.

Many universities offer ABSN programs online. You can go for them if studying full-time at a university isn’t possible. Online ABSN programs allow students to study from wherever and whenever they want. As long as you have an internet connection, you can listen to lectures and participate in classroom discussions at any time you find convenient.

These programs are particularly beneficial for working individuals because they allow them to earn a degree in nursing without affecting their work life. Holy Family University notes that with an online ABSN program, you will be ready to write the NCLEX-RN exam in only 14 months and become a registered nurse.

#2 Budget for Your Prerequisites

Anyone who decides to pursue nursing as a second degree is required to take additional science classes before enrolling in a nursing program. That means you will have to complete prerequisite courses such as anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. These courses can incur tuition, textbooks, lab fees, and transportation expenses, so budgeting for them is crucial.

Start by researching the cost of prerequisite courses at local community colleges or universities. Be sure to consider factors such as in-state vs. out-of-state tuition rates and online course options.

Create a budget that accounts for tuition fees, textbooks, supplies, and any additional expenses. Explore financial aid options, scholarships, and grants specifically for prerequisite courses. In addition, if the money you earn from full-time employment isn’t sufficient to meet your expenses, you can explore part-time work opportunities.

#3 Network With Medical Professionals and Other Nurses

Expanding your network is important when transitioning to a career in nursing at the age of 30. Connect with medical professionals, nursing educators, and nurses in your desired specialty.

Attending networking events, such as conferences, job fairs, and workshops. There, you will find industry professionals who can help you advance your career in nursing. Also, contact alums from nursing programs or colleagues who have transitioned to nursing for advice and guidance.

You can also join online forums and professional associations for nurses. These will allow you to connect with peers, ask questions, and share or learn from their experiences.

#4 Build a Strong Support System

Transitioning careers at the age of 30 is no piece of cake. A strong support system is needed to make the shift easy.

Surround yourself with a supportive network of family, friends, mentors, and fellow nursing students or professionals who can offer guidance, encouragement, and advice. Confide with your family and friends about your career goals and aspirations. Their encouragement and understanding can provide emotional support during challenging times.

Join online communities or support groups where you can connect with individuals like you who are switching their careers at 30. There, you can communicate with people facing similar challenges and share resources and strategies for success. Having a solid support system will not only alleviate stress, but also boost confidence.

To wrap things up, switching to nursing as a career at 30 isn’t easy, but it isn’t impossible either. You can successfully transition into the field by following the tips discussed here. Challenges and uncertainties will accompany this transition. Embrace them because each step will take you closer to your career goals.