Hey Reader,

Thinking about going back to school for an advanced degree? Or maybe you're already in the thick of late-night studying and clinical hours — fueled by caffeine and pure determination. Either way, we see you. More nurses than ever are stepping into higher education, and it’s not just a career move — it’s a power move.

Going back to school or becoming an NP isn't for everyone. I get it. We all have a journey, dreams, desires. But I thought it would be great to touch on various opportunities within nursing for those planning ahead.

Here's a great article from the American Nurses Assoc. (ANA)-

👉How to go from Registered Nurse (RN) to Nurse Practitioner (NP)​

🎓 Why Go Back? Because You’re Not Done Yet​
Healthcare is changing fast. And guess who's uniquely positioned to lead that change? (Hint: it’s you.) Whether you're eyeing a Nurse Practitioner license, a role in education, or that seat at the leadership table, an advanced degree can help you turn your experience into expertise — and your passion into purpose.

Going back to college for an advanced degree is kind of like signing up for a long road trip—there’s excitement, but you want to make sure you’re prepared for the journey!

🚗📚 Here are the key questions to ask yourself before hitting submit on that application:

🎯 Purpose & Goals

1. Why do I want this degree? (Is it for career advancement, a career change, deeper knowledge, or because you just love school vibes?)
2. Will this degree help me achieve my long-term personal or professional goals?
3. Is this truly the right degree for what I want to do, or is there another path (certifications, experience, mentorship) that could get me there?

💰 Finances

1. Can I afford this financially? (Tuition, books, fees, living expenses)
2. What’s the return on investment? (Will this degree likely increase my earning potential, job opportunities, or satisfaction enough to justify the cost?)
3. Will I need to take on debt? If so, how will I manage it?

⏳ Time & Energy

1. Do I realistically have the time to commit to school? (Think about work, family, your social life, sleep… yes, sleep still matters.)
2. What will I need to sacrifice in my personal or professional life to make this happen?
3. Am I okay with the delayed gratification this path requires?

💪 Readiness & Mindset

1. Am I mentally and emotionally ready for the challenge?
2. Do I have a support system (family, friends, coworkers)?
3. Am I doing this for me—or to meet someone else’s expectations?

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Let’s Be Real — It’s Not Easy​
Balancing school with shifts, family, and some kind of sleep schedule? Yep, it’s a lot...and it's not a lot of fun at times. But you don't want to get years down the road and regret NOT doing it. It can open doors and expand your options.

A Final Dose of Encouragement​
As Eleanor Roosevelt once said, "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." And nurses? You dream with your whole heart — and then go make it happen. So keep rising, keep learning, and know this: your next chapter is going to be legendary.

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💖 Best wishes, Deanna

✅ I would love to hear back from you Reader! Please take 3 minutes and answer this short survey about your nursing career. I strive to get as many viewpoints as I can. 👉START SURVEY HERE.​

🔥Career Resources 🔥

✅ "Alternatives in Nursing"- Over 80 nursing options, Nurse Entrepreneur ideas, Websites & Apps to help you find a job you love!

✅ "Discovering Your Purpose Driven Career"- 4 week online career course. Designed for nurses wanting a change, to start their own business, or those considering entering the nursing field.

✅ Go to my website at CoachingPRN.com for more info.

✅ Schedule a free call here to see if 1:1 coaching is for you.

👉 Follow me on Instagram @nursecoach_deanna for more health & career tips!