4 answers
Yuridia
Student
Castroville, CA
15
Questions
Asked
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Did you do any jobs while still studying related to your career?
What jobs could prepare you for becoming a nurse?
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4 answers
Christina Birch
Nurse Practitioner
24
Answers
Berkeley, California
Updated
Christina’s Answer
Yes. I obtained EMT (Emergency Medicine Technician) training then worked for the National Park Service while I was in school. I was able to use this training in emergency situations such as mountain rescues, ambulance transport, and other emergencies. If you know what area you are interested in, for example the Emergency Room, you could possibly use this training as a volunteer.
Another possibility working in a doctors office as a student helping in any area that they need assistance but then being in a position to shadow and observe medical practice. I worked in a Cardiology office where there was a paid position for a student in our anticoagulation clinic. That person collected the blood tests, entered the results into the tracking system, then called the patients with the changes or care recommended by the provider once the results were reviewed. This gave the person excellent experience with patient communication and allowed the person to shadow providers to learn about many aspects of Cardiology.
Think about what area of medicine might interest you, then see if there are job or volunteer positions in those areas and what training it would take to get them.
Good luck! You will love it.
Another possibility working in a doctors office as a student helping in any area that they need assistance but then being in a position to shadow and observe medical practice. I worked in a Cardiology office where there was a paid position for a student in our anticoagulation clinic. That person collected the blood tests, entered the results into the tracking system, then called the patients with the changes or care recommended by the provider once the results were reviewed. This gave the person excellent experience with patient communication and allowed the person to shadow providers to learn about many aspects of Cardiology.
Think about what area of medicine might interest you, then see if there are job or volunteer positions in those areas and what training it would take to get them.
Good luck! You will love it.
Kendra W.
Data Analytics/ Operations
19
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Kendra’s Answer
I was on a nursing degree track and got my CNA certificate. I worked as a CNA for a few weeks and realized it wasn't the right path!
I recommend getting your CNA and working as one while in school, sometimes it'll even help you get into nursing school or other medical programs, while still learning if it's something you can see yourself doing!
I recommend getting your CNA and working as one while in school, sometimes it'll even help you get into nursing school or other medical programs, while still learning if it's something you can see yourself doing!
Elizabeth Everett
Nursing
1
Answer
Jacksonville, Florida
Updated
Elizabeth’s Answer
In my journey to become a nurse practitioner, I first had to become an RN. My advice is if it is possible for you to live with family and not work , I would go that route. I used food banks, when necessary. I also moved to a low cost of living area.
After you obtain your RN, your opportunities will abound. It is possible to work as an RN and further your degree. Many places are willing to work around your school schedule. Good luck, you're going to be great!
After you obtain your RN, your opportunities will abound. It is possible to work as an RN and further your degree. Many places are willing to work around your school schedule. Good luck, you're going to be great!
Wendy Butterfield
Registered Nurse
3
Answers
Nampa, Idaho
Updated
Wendy’s Answer
The best thing you could do while going to nursing school, or taking prerequisites to get into nursing school, is to work as a CNA. It's definitely doable. The reason it is so important to work as a CNA before becoming a nurse is because you get a good foundation of what it really means to care for your patients, and you should be willing to do anything you ask your CNA to do. You do not want to be the nurse the CNAs avoid or complain about because they can make or break your shift. Be a CNA first!