Reasons to Consider Studying Nursing

Are you currently considering what you want your career to look like? Perhaps you are someone already with many years of experience and who is toying with the idea of a complete career change?
Either way, if you enjoy helping others and working closely with people, there is a good chance that you are considering studying nursing. Here are just a few reasons as to why it could be the right career choice for you.

Nurses are rarely unemployed and are paid well

Studies have shown that nurses are some of the most highly employable professionals. Statistically, over 90% of registered nurses (RN) find a job within six months of completing their degree. If you have been struggling to find employment, this might make the nursing profession exceptionally attractive. Just keep in mind, however, that the salary and employment rates differ quite substantially from state to state.

According to The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ latest Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Report, below are the average salaries earned by registered nurses in the USA according to state, as well as how many registered nurses were practicing in each state, as of 2017.
The top 10 lowest paying states for registered nurses (still impressive figures) from lowest paying to highest paying are as follows:

● South Dakota:
o The average salary for registered nurses: $57,010
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 12,530
● Mississippi
o The average salary for registered nurses: $57,700
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 28,760
● Alabama
o The average salary for registered nurses: $57,890
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 49,290
● Iowa
o The average salary for registered nurses: $57,930
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 33,280
● Arkansas
o The average salary for registered nurses: $58,810
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 24,380
● Kansas
o The average salary for registered nurses: $59,940
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 28,900
● Tennessee
o The average salary for registered nurses: $60,050
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 59,530
● West Virginia
o The average salary for registered nurses: $60,380
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 20,410
● Kentucky
o The average salary for registered nurses: $61,530
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 44,410
● Oklahoma
o The average salary for registered nurses: $61,640
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 28,000
● Nebraska
o The average salary for registered nurses: $62,210
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 22,870

The top 10 highest paying states for registered nurses from lowest paying to highest paying are as follows:

● New Jersey
o The average salary for registered nurses: $82,010
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 80,560
● Connecticut
o The average salary for registered nurses: $80,200
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 34,310
● New York
o The average salary for registered nurses: $83,450
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 180,170
● Nevada
o The average salary for registered nurses: $84,980
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 21,060
● Alaska
o The average salary for registered nurses: $87,510
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 5,570
● Oregon
o The average salary for registered nurses: $88,770
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 35,140
● Massachusetts
o The average salary for registered nurses: $89,330
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 82,870
● District of Columbia
o The average salary for registered nurses: $90,110
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 11,000
● Hawaii
o The average salary for registered nurses: $96,990
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 10,800
● California
o The average salary for registered nurses: $102,700
o Number of registered nurses practicing: 282,290

Ultimately, California and Hawaii are two states known to pay their nurses the highest salaries. However, there is a lot of job competition in California considering just how many nurses are residing and working there. This is why it is so important to look at more than just numbers when deciding where to kick-start your nursing career in the USA.

Nurses have rewarding jobs
There are few jobs as rewarding as those that allow you to help and care for others and really make a difference in their lives. As a nurse, you will be able to do this on a daily basis which can give your job and your life a much greater sense of meaning. You can also expect to wake up each morning and really look forward to going to work. Furthermore, the longer you spend progressing your nursing career, the more confident you are likely to become in your position and the bigger difference you are likely to make.

You have a number of options when it comes to studying nursing
If you are studying to become a RN or you are looking to transition from a RN to a BSN, there are many options to think about. While you can opt to study full time at a college or university, you may also wish to consider signing up for online courses.
Online RN to BSN programs are usually substantially more affordable and convenient. Furthermore, they offer you the following benefits:

● Flexible hours. You can complete your course in your own time without having to worry about attending compulsory lectures or logging in at specific times. You will also be able to complete most, if not all, of your course via the internet in the comfort of your home.
● Tailored support. Most online education providers will offer you access to a reliable support structure that you can reach out to any time you have questions or require assistance.
● Small classes. No more getting lost in the crowds of a packed lecture hall. Online classes are kept small so that every student receives more one-on-one attention and guidance.
● Save money. Research shows that, on average, you can expect to save up to $200 per credit hour when you opt to study online as opposed to at a traditional learning institution.

Another benefit of studying nursing online is the fact that you will have the opportunity to learn new life skills along the way, as well as personal skills that will prepare you for practicing as a nurse after you graduate. For example, you will maximize your communication skills. This is due to the fact that it will be up to you to approach the relevant people if you ever feel lost or unsure at any point during your studies. You will often speak to these people in person (over the phone or via video call) which means that you will improve your verbal communication. However, you will also regularly need to contact them via email which, inevitably, will aid you in improving your written communication too.
Furthermore, you will develop handy problem-solving skills which will prove truly invaluable in your future career when dealing with patients and when bound by strict time constraints. Your problem solving skills will evolve because you are likely to come across various obstacles throughout your online studies that you will need to overcome. For example, you may encounter time management challenges and need to shuffle your schedule strategically, or you may need to take the time to figure out an aspect of your coursework that you don’t understand when immediate support is not available.

You have the freedom to work anywhere
There are countless careers that require you to be based in the city center of your state in order to ensure career progression or to maximize your chances of employment. However, when it comes to nurses, you can decide to live anywhere you like. After all, every community that has a medical center, clinic, or hospital will require qualified, enthusiastic nurses.
Having said that, it is definitely recommended that you do your research before applying for nursing jobs. Not only should you research the various medical institutions in your area, but you should also research where the best opportunities are around the country. As you can see above, both the average salaries and number of existing nurses differs greatly from state to state. Be careful about simply deciding to move to California or Hawaii just because they pay their nursing staff the best, however. It is also important to consider what your chances are of finding employment in each state. The more nurses there are practicing in the area, the more difficult it will be for you to find a job – especially when you are still lacking in work experience.
Many registered nurses will opt to remain in their current state and work for a few years before considering moving elsewhere for better pay or opportunities. Also, keep in mind that BSN prepared and qualified nurses immediately earn more than RNs. The great news is that you can study towards a BSN degree while you work as an RN.
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You will always be respected
Becoming a nurse is a noble calling and one that many people will respect you for. You can be proud of your job and proud of the hard work that it took to get you where you are.
Ultimately, becoming a nurse promises endless benefits, rewards, and experiences. If it sounds like a path that you would like to take, embrace the opportunity. You will be very glad that you did.