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What do I do? Please 🙏 any guidance and support would be greatly appreciated, thank you!

Hi 👋 my name is Donna, and I have an AS in ECE and realized teaching isn’t for me and a BS in GS. After some guidance and reflection from others and myself, I decided to look into becoming a nurse (I believe that’s what God keeps pulling me towards!) I was accepted into a nursing program, but, unfortunately lost my parents almost 2 years apart and it took a very bad toll on me. Moving forward, I found a school that would except me, but, have to study and pass the TEAS exam (I have so much anxiety, doubts, fear, and overwhelming negative thoughts that I won’t be able to comprehend, understand, and pass!) I’ve feeling so depressed because I’m starting to do like before and feeling like I don’t have what it takes to become a Nurse, thinking my I should go for RT, Radiology Tech, or Sonography…….but I keep seeing nursing and saying is it a coincidence and it’s my imagination wanting me to believe it or that’s the Lord who is still talking to me and tugging at me!? I did my research on those other career paths that are awesome to, but, don’t have the opportunities the way nursing does! With that being said, I was also told no matter what your career path in whatever field you choose, there are always stress and anxiety at times, but, it’s not an option every day if you allow it! When your passionate about something, you put your whole heart into it. I‘’be always been told I’m very caring, kind, and always want to help others and put a smile on their face! I’m so confused 😵‍💫 and crying 😭 not knowing what to do anymore!? I’m 51 years old, no children, and I know it’s never to late to learn and become something as long as you believe in yourself; I seem to lack that too. Please 🙏 any guidance and support would be greatly appreciated, grateful and thankful.

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Subject: Career question for you

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Susana’s Answer

Hi Donna, 👋, first of all, I just want to acknowledge your strength, resilience, and heart—you’ve been through so much, and yet here you are, still searching for your purpose and the best way to serve others. That alone speaks volumes about your character. ❤️

You're Not Alone—Doubt is Normal
It’s completely natural to feel anxiety, doubt, and even fear when making a major career transition, especially after experiencing loss and setbacks. But your age, past experiences, and challenges do not define your future. So many people find their true calling later in life, and nursing is full of stories of second-career nurses who thrive because of their life experience, empathy, and perseverance.

Is Nursing Truly for You? Or Something Else?
You mentioned that you keep seeing nursing and wondering if it’s God’s way of leading you there. If nursing keeps coming up, that could be a sign—not just from God, but from within your own heart. Ask yourself:
✅ Do I feel called to care for people in a hands-on way, even in challenging moments?
✅ Am I drawn to the impact nurses make on patients’ lives?
✅ Do I see myself working in a hospital, clinic, or healthcare setting, comforting and helping people?
✅ Can I handle the demands of nursing if I build confidence, study hard, and get support?

If your heart says YES but your mind is filled with fear, remember fear is not the truth—it’s just uncertainty. Many successful nurses doubted themselves at the start, but they pushed through the fear and proved themselves wrong.

But What About Radiology Tech, RT, or Sonography?
It’s smart that you’re researching alternatives, and honestly, those are all fantastic healthcare careers! They have less direct patient care than nursing but still make a big impact. If you feel more drawn to a technical, diagnostic, or imaging role, those careers might be a great fit.

However, if your heart keeps bringing you back to nursing, then that’s worth paying attention to. You can overcome the TEAS, the fear, and the doubts!

The TEAS Exam & Your Fears About Studying
I hear you—you’re anxious about passing the TEAS. That’s totally understandable! But here’s the truth:
✔ The TEAS is not about intelligence—it’s about strategy and preparation.
✔ You can pass even if you don’t feel confident right now.
✔ Many nursing students struggle with it at first, but with focused study, they succeed.
✔ Your past struggles don’t define your ability to learn—you are capable!

👉 Practical Steps to Overcome TEAS Anxiety:

Get the Right Study Resources – Use books like ATI TEAS Study Manual, Mometrix, or Pocket Prep TEAS app.
Focus on Weak Areas – Math and science are usually the hardest, so start reviewing them now.
Study in Small Chunks – Don’t overwhelm yourself. Just 30-45 minutes a day is enough!
Take Practice Tests – You’ll get comfortable with the format and improve over time.
Find Support – Join TEAS study groups online or get a tutor if needed. You don’t have to do this alone!
Overcoming Self-Doubt & Moving Forward
Donna, you said it yourself: “It’s never too late to learn and become something as long as you believe in yourself.” 💜 That’s true, and the only thing holding you back right now is fear. Fear is a liar—it tells you that you can’t, when in reality, you absolutely can!

Here’s what I know about you from what you’ve shared:
⭐ You have a caring heart—that’s the core of nursing.
⭐ You’ve been told by others that you are kind and always helping people—that’s a natural nurse.
⭐ You keep coming back to nursing—that’s not an accident!
⭐ You are willing to work hard—you just need confidence and a plan.

So What’s Next?
💡 Step 1: Make a decision—if nursing is your true calling, commit to it. No more second-guessing.
💡 Step 2: Start studying for the TEAS in small, manageable steps.
💡 Step 3: Surround yourself with encouragement and support—mentors, study groups, faith, and positive influences.
💡 Step 4: Trust yourself & take action—one step at a time.

Final Encouragement
You’ve been through a lot, Donna, but you’re still here, still searching, still fighting for your future. That tells me you have a purpose, a calling, and a fire inside you that won’t let you give up.

Don’t let fear decide for you. Let faith, determination, and your heart lead the way. Nursing is waiting for you—and you CAN do this.

I’m here to support you every step of the way. You’ve got this! 💪🏽💙

Sending you strength, clarity, and prayers! 🙏✨ Let me know how I can help. 💜
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Bashayir’s Answer

Looks like you're facing a challenging time with grief, anxiety, and career uncertainty. Prioritize your well-being by seeking professional support for grief and anxiety. Explore your options through informational interviews, job shadowing, and career counseling. Build self-belief by challenging negative thoughts and focusing on your strengths. Remember your passion for helping others and visualize your success. Embrace the challenge and focus on the journey, celebrating small victories and acknowledging your progress. Remember, you are not alone in this. Reach out for support, prioritize your well-being, and explore your options with an open mind. You have the strength and resilience to overcome these challenges and achieve your goals. Wish you best of luck!!!
Thank you comment icon Thank you for taking the time to help. Donna M
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Maureen’s Answer

Donna,
I am a Nurse Practitioner who know this next statement all to well.
First and foremost, take care of yourself. Some nurses are poor at self care so that is your first priority. This is where you need to start.

I would suggest volunteering or working at a hospital or clinic to see if the role suits you. My first year in nursing school, a large portion of our class left nursing as they had no idea what they were getting themselves into until they got in the thick of it.

I encourage you to fulfil your dream in nursing. Passing many a test is part of the schooling and career even after graduation.
I was a previous faculty member in a college of nursing. Some of the preliminary courses you will need are: statistics, information technology, biology, anatomy and physiology, chemistry, microbiology, and several psychology/sociology classes. It is a tough program but the rewards are great. Seeing patients thrive, using your brain, getting through tough situations, and prioritizing your patients and care are just a few benefits.

Not many people ask themselves if they can afford the university program. If you need student loans, how much will that entail and when will these be paid back. I had a colleague with a $100,000 loan debt from her nurse practitioner program!

Good luck Donna. You can do it.

Maureen recommends the following next steps:

Talk to friends, neighbors, etc. who are nurses to help with your questions.
Volunteer at a clinic or hospital, shadow a nurse.
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Cindy’s Answer

Hello Susana
51 is nothing in nursing school. Nursing is the only career where age is not an issue. A lot of nurses are second career people. They have done a career, finished and then joined nursing. Nursing is a calling.
What can I say - nursing school sucks!! Its tough. Most nurses go through what you are going through. It is just something you do, If you havent failed a few courses yet, you are ahead of the game!!!
I remember talking to one of my classmates back in nursing school - and she wanted to quit when she had finished 3/4 of the program. Its hard. Going in you know its hard. She was crying and depressed. I told her to just finish, then make up her mind when she is done. And isn't she so joyful to be a nurse now. Funny - her name was Susannah too!!
My advise,
1. Do you realistically think you can finish the course? How long is it? It helps if you do not have to work while in nursing school
2. If you cannot finish the course you are in, have yu consideredbreaking it into different parts? a- CNA - 8 weeks, get a night shift CNA position or a home health position b- Do LPN in a private school. Be ready to pay about 15000 to 25000 cash unless the school is accredited. Non- accredited certified schools dont get financal aid. You may need to think about moving to a different state for this to be possible. Private schools like Ultimate health school or unique will get you an LPN in about a year. You will also be able to do 1 class at a time, which is less stressful than regular nursing school
c- LPN to RN. There are a lot of bringing programs in bith private and community colleges. d-RN t BSN.
This route allows you to live your life as you change your career.
You may need the slower pace compared to the more stressful RN school. nursing school is hard. Mental health is important.

I wish you the best, future nurse. Hang in there!!
Most nurses have been where you are now, Join a few nursing groups on facebook, and you will see how many people are going through what you are going through right now. All the best.
Thank you comment icon I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question. Donna M
Thank you comment icon Thank you 🙏 Cindy for your kind words! Donna M
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