[Jbus]

Greetings All,

My name is Jose, I retired from the United States Air Force six years ago. I have been an aircraft mechanic for twenty two years. I did a stint as a deputy sheriff here in the Southwest now I'm back in the aircraft maintenance field. I was recently approved for vocational rehabilitation through the VA (arthritic right elbow). My first choice was physical therapy but I don't have six years to dedicate to school as I just turned 44. I have been seriously considering Nursing the VA will cover all of my educational expenses up to a BSN.I would like to work in the ER and OR, as a cop I have seen a lot of gore so I don't think I'll be shocked when I see it again.

I have a wife and 3 teenage kids, This may sound like a cliche but I like to help people which is one of the reasons why I would like to get into nursing field.

I used to be an avid powerlifter but I had to cut back because of my elbow, I enjoy running, reading, and attending church.

Jose

[cougarnurse]

Welcome to the Forum, Jose! Nice to meet you.

I know you'll love nursing. Remember....age is just a number. Also...protect your back!

When do you start school? When you start, drop by when you can and destress!

'Cat'

[Jbus]

I plan on starting sometime in January, as soon as the VA starts the process. I currently work a full time job, how difficult will it be working and going to school?

[Ricu]

Hi Jose,

Welcome! From what you say, it sounds like nursing will be a good field for you to go into. Hopefully another one of our moderators will check in from the desert soon and see your post because he will no doubt have many words of encouragement. You and "Mag" have very similar backgrounds right down to the powerlifting. Keep us posted and, good luck.

R

PS: You could potentially work full time and go to school full time depending on how your schedule(s) could be arranged but I wouldn't recommend it. Burn-out will kill you and so will sleep deprivation. I recommend that you try to think of a way around that scenario.

[Jbus]

Thanks for the advice, I'm originally from Southern New England (New Haven, CT.) I've been out west for almost 16 years.

[Ricu]

Originally Posted by Jbus

Thanks for the advice, I'm originally from Southern New England (New Haven, CT.) I've been out west for almost 16 years.

I'm originally from New Jersey; been out (gladly) for twenty years. Currently, I live on the coast about three hours north of New Haven.

R

[SoldierNurse]

Welcome & thank you for your military service!

[AmandaWIRN]

Welcome! It is difficult to work & go to school, but it can be done! I worked approx 30 hours/week while going to school full time, and I had classmates who worked 40+ hrs/week.