[ckbeme]

Good day everyone. I'm looking forward to getting to know some of you, sharing trade secrets, and spreading rumors!!

I had to change careers after a lay off; I worked as a Database Administrator for almost 20 years. I became another statistic on the 10:00 news: "Good Evening. I'm Christa Crews - with the News. Coming up - 114,750 North Texans have lost their jobs due to outsourcing. Is the worst still to come?...Details when we return...."

I turned off the TV. I knew enough details. And the word is not Outsourcing. It is 'OuchSourcing'

I got laid off in 2003, had 2 neck surgeries, shoulder surgery and kidney surgery within 20 months. I was physically unable to work so I went back to school to pursue my RN pre-reqs and co-reqs.

Nursing has always appealed to me, but I was comfy in my IT position. I knew my job well, was a highly valued and APPRECIATED employee, and I made very good money as a Database Admin.

When I got laid off, I interpreted that as a message telling me, "Follow your heart. Start a new, fulfilling, and rewarding career as a nurse. Even if you are 50 years old..." :yikes: Very scary

So, here I am. I will take my PSB this Thursday and submit my ADN application by Jan 31, 2007.

I live in Plano, TX - a suburb about 20 miles N of Downtown Dallas. I'll be applying for the ADN program at CCCCD... Collin County Community College, which is also located in Plano.

My name is Cathy and I'm going to be a nurse.

[cougarnurse]

Hi, Cathy, and welcome to the site! :luck: on that test; I know you're gonna make it. Drop in often while in school, and we'll give ya support.

Again, welcome to the site!

'Cat'

[Twister's Dad]

Hi Cathy, and welcome to Ultimate Nurse! One of my dearest friends lives and works in Plano; she moved there about 3 years ago. She loves it there, and says the people are very warm and friendly.

I just wanted to congratulate you on your career change (we have that in common, too), and to wish you much luck and success in school! Let us know how it's going, OK?

[hfergrn]

Congratulations to you!!! It may take some searching, but there are jobs out there for nurses that are in the IT realm. With hospitals going computerized, they need nursing help and technical support. This way, you can keep your love for computer work and integrate your new career.

[Marie_LPN]