Seasoned, Skilled, and Still Learning: Why It’s Never Too Late for Nurses to Go Back to School

For the last couple of years, I’ve taken several courses as both a refresher and booster in preparation for more potential graduate school. Going back to school as a senior nurse (nope, I’m not in my 20s anymore!) isn’t just about career advancement—it’s about evolving, leading, and redefining what’s possible in healthcare. So many changes – good and bad – are happening around us, and I want to bring a bigger impact to the profession.

Whether pursuing an advanced degree, specialty certification, or a complete career shift, everyone should know that seasoned nurses bring unmatched experience, resilience, and insight to the classroom and beyond. As I navigate a shift, I continue to see that many nurses hesitate, likely wondering:

💡 Am I too late to start over?
💡 Can I balance school with work and family?
💡 Will this truly benefit my career?

The answer? Absolutely. I am, and so can you! The skills and wisdom gained from years of bedside experience make senior nurses uniquely positioned to excel in leadership, education, research, or advanced practice roles like NP, CRNA, or some other specialization.

If you’re a nurse contemplating this leap, know that growth has no expiration date. I received my FNP from The George Washington University over a decade ago, and I’m going back to school. Your experience and ability to soak up new information and apply it is your superpower—use it to shape the future of healthcare.

And, yep, that’s my pug in the photo being a distraction. 😄

🔹 Are you a nurse who returned to school later in your career? Share your journey!