How can I achieve my dream of becoming NICU Nurse?

Dear Krysta, I have been an NICU nurse for 28 years and LOVE it! It is a great area for nurses and I can't imagine doing anything else. When I graduated from high school I had no idea what I wanted to do-- but I liked math and science, so I pursued engineering for a year. When my mom was sick in the hospital during that time, I started to talk to the nurses taking care of her and thought I might like to do that! I was a pediatric nurse for a year and then moved to the NICU. I have learned so much and continue to learn more all of the time-- that's my favorite thing about this job.

My niece told me that she wanted to be a nurse so I toured her through the hospital and had her ask each nurse she met what was their favorite thing and least favorite thing about their job. They ALL said that they loved their patients and their co-workers, and they all said the hours- nights, weekends, holidays.... was the worst part. It was pretty amazing that everyone said the same thing. She is a nurse now and works as a research nurse for a doctor in his office (better hours). I would highly recommend that you speak to lots of nurses so you know what you are getting in to-- but it is SO worth it!
The best part of being a NICU nurse is when we have a NICU "reunion party" every year. The babies that we have treated return with their parents so we can see how well they have done-- It is really a boost to see some kids who had a really tough start- with a low birth weight and lots of medical problems-- turn out so well! We love that time.
Best of luck to you!

Teresa