Five Compelling Reasons Every College Student Should Consider a Nursing Career
Many college students find themselves uncertain about which degree to pursue or what career path to follow. Often, they struggle to balance their own aspirations with their parents’ expectations. When it comes to choosing a degree, factors like job prospects, interest in the subject, and the prestige associated with the field play significant roles. One career that ticks all these boxes is nursing. Here are five compelling reasons why every college student should consider nursing as a degree and career option:
1. **Job Outlook**
The demand for nursing professionals is on the rise and is expected to keep growing for years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) positions will increase faster than average between 2010 and 2020. Registered Nursing (RN) roles are projected to grow even faster, at a rate of 26% in the same period.
2. **Payoff**
Nursing roles offer great pay, and you can start earning above minimum wage after just a few months of training, such as through a certificate program to become a nurse’s aide or certified nursing assistant. Nursing jobs are available at all education levels, from associate’s degrees to doctorates. Licensed Practical Nurses earn an average salary of over $40,000 a year, while Registered Nurses make around $64,900 annually. Few other degrees offer such high pay right out of an associate’s or bachelor’s program.
3. **Impact**
Nursing is a profession where you can truly make a difference. Nurses play a vital role in improving the quality of life for their patients and often save lives. They are the front-line caregivers in healthcare, making a lasting impact on their patients. Unlike many other jobs, nursing allows you to make a real difference in people’s lives.
4. **Opportunities**
A nursing degree opens up a multitude of career paths, from in-home caregiving to teaching, writing, or case management. With a nursing degree, you can find work anywhere in the country and choose hours that suit your lifestyle. The field offers a variety of specialties, so you’re never stuck in one role for your entire career. Plus, there are attractive bonuses for nurses who join the military.
5. **Pride**
Nurses are held in high esteem. It’s a career that garners respect and admiration. Nurses are well-trained professionals who do more than just provide basic care—they are crucial to the healthcare system. Earning a degree in nursing is an achievement to be proud of, given the rigorous training involved.
If you’re looking for a fast-growing, well-paying, and highly respected profession, nursing is worth exploring. It is both intellectually challenging and emotionally rewarding, with job growth expected to soar in the coming years. Nursing not only offers financial stability, allowing you to pay off student debt quickly, but it also empowers you to lead a meaningful life. Considering all these benefits, every college student should give serious thought to a career in nursing.
