Not SAIF Related, Looking for Job/School Advice

Eve_Angelique · November 2013

So I am having a bit of a quarter life crisis (I don't think I am old enough for a mid-life crisis yet!). All of the sudden I have an itch to go back to school. I am currently a certified pharmacy technician, and my pharmacist has been harassing me to go to pharmacy school. I have looked into it but I am not really sure that is what I would like to do. I know that I like the healthcare field and I love helping patients. So about 2 weeks ago I got the idea of going to school for a Physicians Assistant. And now I am kind of obsessed. I really want to do it but I would need to take some pre-req classes first. I have a BS in Biology but I never did take Human Anat and Phys or a couple other classes that you do need to have under your belt before applying. Is this just a crazy idea to think about going into a program for something like that while trying to have #2 and taking care of another toddler at home?

I am thinking long-term a PA job would be ia good life choice it seems to be an in demand profession, and the pay is pretty nice! I just wonder if I am bat-sh*t crazy to think about doing something like this. Most people that I have brought it up to seem to think so....

kmc84 · November 2013

I personally don't think I could get through PA school with a lo and possibly one on the way (and then 2 lo's...). I have a friend in PA school right now and it's intense! I don't want to be discouraging at all, but I sorta think its crazy talk

You would need A&P 1&2 and possibly some psyc (depending on what already have) for pretty much anything health care related. If you're not ready to jump into a full program, you could always take A&P and get it out of the way now.

What about an RN? Since you already have a BS, look into accelerated programs that will give you BS in nursing. As an RN, you can work in a hundred different areas and it would allow you flexibility to find a job that best suits your family's needs.

ashleymarie512 · November 2013

I don't think it's crazy as long as you and your family plan for it! My sister just graduated with her PA degree and while it is busy, she had many fellow students who had families. Definitely not impossible and good job for wanting to further your education!

My husband is working on his doctorate and toys with the idea of medical school when he's done. It is exhausting to think about bc he's basically been a student of some sore since we met six yrs ago (dropped out of college and then went back for bachelors, etc) and I've been the sole breadwinner, but I can't stand to be the reason that holds him back from what is essentially his dream. Would it be easy with a kid or two? Nope. Would he maybe have to live away from us at times? Yeah. Would the payoff for his happiness and our financial security be worth it for a few years of struggle? Maybe.

Think long term and talk about all the possibilities. Good luck!!!

jessica_gail2 · November 2013

I'm firmly of the belief that you can do whatever you set your mind too. If that's what you want to do, DO IT!

Make sure you have a plan, but no regrets. It will be an exciting yet stressful time but at least you won't think "what if" if you don't do it.

A very wise woman whose career advancement, etc I admire once told me she knew she couldn't be the greatest mother in the world and have a stellar career. But if she gave 90% effort into being a mom and 90% to being a businesswoman she could do pretty damn good at both. And she did.

Good luck in your decision!

Eve_Angelique · November 2013

Thanks for the kind words, I know that it would be insanity for a couple years through school, but I think the rewards would be worth it! I am definitely doing lots of research and plan to shadow a PA to get a better feel for what the job is really like. So we shall see where this all leads me!

kmc84 · November 2013

Best of luck with your decision! (I hope I didn't come across as negative in my response

)

TJ1979 · November 2013

You might also want to talk to some pa schools near you. Years ago when I was applying it was VERY, VERY competitive to get in. Like, less than 10% of applicants got in. Just another thing to consider.

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