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For nurses, when deciding on graduate school, have you second guessed your decision and what helped you solidify your choice?

I am completing my BSN currently and am pretty set on going to CRNA school but have been considering NP. How should I decide?

nursing fall25 graduate-school
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Shawn’s Answer

It’s a big commitment, and I wondered whether I could balance work, school, and my personal responsibilities. What helped solidify my choice was going back to my “why.” I knew I wanted to advance my skills, open up more opportunities, and have a greater impact on patient care. I also talked to nurses who had already completed graduate programs, and hearing their experiences reassured me that the temporary challenges were worth the long-term benefits. Once I looked at the bigger picture, the decision felt right.
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Ann’s Answer

I earned my BSN and worked on a medical-surgical floor for five years before taking a break for a few years to raise my kids. After that, I decided not to return to hospital work. I was set on becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), even though I didn't fully understand what the role involved. I wanted to work in an office setting, helping patients achieve their best health as their primary healthcare provider. While I could have worked in an office as an RN handling calls and paperwork, that didn't appeal to me.

I can't specifically advise on choosing between a CRNA and an NP, but I believe starting as an RN in a hospital provides valuable hands-on experience. It's helpful to speak with CRNAs and NPs to understand their career paths. CRNAs have more specialized career options, while NPs have a wide range of opportunities. The choice depends on your interests.
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