Mature student ar 52 years old

[Weelizzie]

Hey, looking for some inspiration! I've worked in various jobs since I had my own flat at 18, I've got 2 children youngest being 12, I'm now considering applying for access nursing now my youngest is in high school, it's my dream career😊 I'd like to branch into mental health nursing, I'll be nearly 54 when qualified am I too old, I overthing a lot of things and get anxious I put off going back to education due to caring for my late husband.

A former colleague of mine - same age as you (and me!) - started a nursing degree last year and is loving it. I’d say go for it 😊

Hi, thanks for your reply, I'm going for it,or I'll be sitting at 54 years old and saying I should've went for it..its the fear of sitting with the younger students lol..but I'm going give it my best shot 🥳

Good for you 🥳

Go for it! I know it's a bit different because there's more of a mix of ages, but I used to teach for the OU and my oldest student was 89. She made friends with an 18-year-old who was studying with the OU because she was anxious about going away to uni - they used to meet up for study sessions and go to the pub together after tutorials. When I was an undergrad myself, we had a mature student in our group who must have been in his 60s and it was no big deal at all.

So sorry for your loss OP.

This is the time for you! Parenting young kids and caring for a very sick partner behind you, now if time to focus on yourself and chase your dreams. Go for it! Qualify with your head held high and be the best nurse you can be! Rooting for you!

One of my now best friends changed career (not nursing but 3 years training college and 2 years as an assistant) and has just got her first permanent position at 52. She is very happy and brilliant at what she does.

I retrained at a 'mature' age and it is the best thing I ever did. I love my work. I befriended many young people who are still friends.

I also appreciated my education so much more. I genuinely enjoyed the courses.

Go for it. You still have a good decade or so left of work, so you might as well enjoy it!