Navigating Life Decisions: Exploring Nursing and Law School
As a 15-year-old senior in high school, you're facing some significant choices that can shape your future. You're considering majoring in nursing while potentially pursuing law school later. Your parents, who are also worried, want you to go through law school after nursing. However, it's essential to consider your personal readiness for such a demanding path and aligning this with your values and interests.
Preparing for the Transition
It's important to acknowledge the significant emotional and psychological growth that still lies ahead during your college years. At 17, entering a college environment with peers who are closer to your age (up to 22) may feel quite different from your current social dynamics. Social and dating relationships will undoubtedly evolve, and the personal freedom on college campuses can be a significant adjustment.
Chris Hedges, an author and journalist, once said, "We’ve bought into the idea that education is about training and 'success' defined monetarily rather than learning to think critically and to challenge." This quote underscores the importance of critical thinking and the development of a well-rounded mind over mere career success. The true purpose of education should be to foster understanding and personal growth, not just professional training.
Why Nursing?
Your interest in nursing is a commendable one. Many nursing students, like your potential sister-in-arms, go through extensive educational and training processes. They make life-and-death decisions and work in various units, each demanding unique skills and emotional fortitude. Your sister-in-arms, an RN, is undoubtedly satisfied with her choice, knowing that she's making a difference in people's lives.
On the other hand, your father's desire for you to become an accountant while you chose engineering highlights the personal freedom and integrity in making choices that align with your values. It's important to consider why you are drawn to nursing and if it truly aligns with your passions and goals.
Combining Law and Nursing
Law and nursing can create a unique career path. The ability to merge legal and healthcare knowledge can lead to impactful and innovative solutions. Your potential to make different decisions and have a greater impact than as a practicing nurse is significant. This hybrid career path can offer a unique perspective and valuable skills in both fields.
Aligning Values and Interests
While it's essential to consider the advice of those close to you, ultimately, it will be up to you to make the final decision. Your personal values, interests, and life goals will play a key role in your choice. It's possible that your interests may evolve as you grow and mature, so it's important to remain open to different possibilities.
Your values can serve as a compass, guiding you through complex decisions. They aren't a map, but they help steer you in the right direction. Making choices based on your values can lead to happier outcomes.
It's crucial to talk to your family, especially your parents, to gain their perspectives and insights. However, ultimately, the decision should resonate with you personally. The path you choose is the one through which you can make a meaningful difference in the world.
Conclusion
Your life is at a juncture where you are making one of the most important choices so far. The ability to clarify your values and align them with your career goals will set you on a path that can bring you joy and fulfillment. Take your time, seek advice, and trust your instincts. Good luck!