8 answers
Joanna
Student
Jordan, Minnesota
1
Question
Updated
596 views
Can a 37yr old mom join the military to become a CRNA?
Hello! I am 37-year-old single mother to 3 teens. One is enlisted in the Navy and the other 2 are home (will be having a family plan in place for bootcamp and deployments). I have an Associate's Paralegal degree and am working in criminal defense. I am looking into changing my career into Nursing and utilizing the military to assist in getting me into Anesthetics. I think I have a lot of options to consider and am curious about a few things.
I wanted to enlist out of HS but started our family early; is it frowned upon (in the military) having someone come in later in age?
Is there one preferred branch that would be most beneficial for my goals?
Would it be better to join the reserves, get my BSN during that contract or get by BSN prior to enlisting or something completely different?
The recruiter with the Navy we worked with for my son didn't seem to have much knowledge regarding my son's future outside of the basics of signing up and what to expect during bootcamp so I don't think I can reach out to him for this advice.
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8 answers
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
566
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
As a veteran of the Army who served in Desert Storm, I applaud your decision to explore a new career path in the military with the aim of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). Your life experiences as a 37-year-old single mother of three teenagers, coupled with your maturity and dedication, are valuable assets that can enrich your journey in both the military and nursing fields.
Don't let your concerns about joining the military at a later age deter you. Age is typically not a hindrance to joining the military, especially for those who possess a strong will and determination to succeed. The military often appreciates the life experiences and maturity that older recruits bring. Your background as a mother and your previous career in criminal defense could offer unique insights and skills that could be beneficial to your military service and nursing career.
When deciding on a military branch, each one provides its own set of opportunities and benefits for those interested in nursing and healthcare. However, if your ultimate goal is to become a CRNA, the Army and Navy offer the most direct routes to this specialty through their Nurse Corps programs. Both branches provide opportunities for enlisted personnel to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and then pursue further education and training in anesthesia nursing.
The decision to join the reserves or earn your BSN before enlisting depends on your personal situation, career ambitions, and preferences. Joining the reserves can allow you to serve part-time while continuing your education, offering flexibility and financial aid through programs like the Montgomery GI Bill or the Tuition Assistance Program. Conversely, obtaining your BSN before enlisting could enable you to enter the military as an officer, which usually comes with higher pay and more leadership opportunities.
It's crucial to thoroughly research and weigh all your options before making a decision. Contact recruiters from different branches to gather more information about their Nurse Corps programs, education benefits, and career paths. Also, consider talking to current or former military nurses and CRNAs to gain insights into their experiences and advice for achieving your goals.
Even though the recruiter you consulted for your son might not have had in-depth knowledge about nursing career paths, there are resources available to guide you through this process. Consider contacting military nursing associations, career counselors, or academic advisors at nursing schools for advice and support. With careful planning, determination, and support, you can successfully achieve your dream of becoming a CRNA while serving your country in the military.
Don't let your concerns about joining the military at a later age deter you. Age is typically not a hindrance to joining the military, especially for those who possess a strong will and determination to succeed. The military often appreciates the life experiences and maturity that older recruits bring. Your background as a mother and your previous career in criminal defense could offer unique insights and skills that could be beneficial to your military service and nursing career.
When deciding on a military branch, each one provides its own set of opportunities and benefits for those interested in nursing and healthcare. However, if your ultimate goal is to become a CRNA, the Army and Navy offer the most direct routes to this specialty through their Nurse Corps programs. Both branches provide opportunities for enlisted personnel to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and then pursue further education and training in anesthesia nursing.
The decision to join the reserves or earn your BSN before enlisting depends on your personal situation, career ambitions, and preferences. Joining the reserves can allow you to serve part-time while continuing your education, offering flexibility and financial aid through programs like the Montgomery GI Bill or the Tuition Assistance Program. Conversely, obtaining your BSN before enlisting could enable you to enter the military as an officer, which usually comes with higher pay and more leadership opportunities.
It's crucial to thoroughly research and weigh all your options before making a decision. Contact recruiters from different branches to gather more information about their Nurse Corps programs, education benefits, and career paths. Also, consider talking to current or former military nurses and CRNAs to gain insights into their experiences and advice for achieving your goals.
Even though the recruiter you consulted for your son might not have had in-depth knowledge about nursing career paths, there are resources available to guide you through this process. Consider contacting military nursing associations, career counselors, or academic advisors at nursing schools for advice and support. With careful planning, determination, and support, you can successfully achieve your dream of becoming a CRNA while serving your country in the military.
This is wonderful Patrick! Thank you for your service. Additionally, thank you for taking the time to provide me with a thorough response. I have many things to consider, and it looks like there are ample resources for me. I really appreciate the information you provided and with your help, I will begin reaching out to different branches this week in order to make a plan to accomplish my goals.
Joanna
Mary Jane Shroyer
Director of Health Professions Career Community
102
Answers
Grinnell, Iowa
Updated
Mary Jane’s Answer
Joanna, I strongly encourage you to reach out to a medical officer recruiter who can share information about the Nurse Corps. Rank-and-file military recruiters may not understand these programs and don't always have the most up-to-date information. Be persistent about getting a health professions/medical officer recruiter to ensure you get the proper information. Here are two resources that can help you get started:
https://www.medicineandthemilitary.com/career-and-lifestyle/non-physician-careers-military
https://www.navy.com/sites/default/files/2018-03/nurse-brochure.pdf
The VA also offers health professions scholarships for a variety of career tracsk, which might be another option if you bump up against age limits for active military duty: https://va-ams-info.intelliworxit.com/hpsp/about-hpsp/
If you don't end up going the military route, you could also look into the Certified Anesthesiology Assistant degree, which is a Master's level 2-year program, which might offer a shorter on-ramp to an anesthesiology career -- both CAA and RN will likely require you to take some science prerequisites: https://www.anesthetist.org/frequently-asked-questions
If you don't already workout regularly, you'll need to pass the fitness test, so start improving your cardio & upper body strength! Good luck!
https://www.medicineandthemilitary.com/career-and-lifestyle/non-physician-careers-military
https://www.navy.com/sites/default/files/2018-03/nurse-brochure.pdf
The VA also offers health professions scholarships for a variety of career tracsk, which might be another option if you bump up against age limits for active military duty: https://va-ams-info.intelliworxit.com/hpsp/about-hpsp/
If you don't end up going the military route, you could also look into the Certified Anesthesiology Assistant degree, which is a Master's level 2-year program, which might offer a shorter on-ramp to an anesthesiology career -- both CAA and RN will likely require you to take some science prerequisites: https://www.anesthetist.org/frequently-asked-questions
If you don't already workout regularly, you'll need to pass the fitness test, so start improving your cardio & upper body strength! Good luck!
david kirk
Retired Computing Manager
472
Answers
Syracuse, New York
Updated
david’s Answer
Find a qualified recruiter for in-depth discussion, not necessarily Navy. Age limit is 41. You may get some useful comments here, but what will do you the most good is a discussion with a recruiter. I suggest speaking with Army and Air Force and also Marines, although physical requirements may be stronger in some career paths. I admire your interest, as I was in military and it launched me well into a career after discharge.
Thank you, david for the advice.
Joanna
Bradley Lauseng
Law enforcement, Corrections
5
Answers
Camp Pendleton North, California
Updated
Bradley’s Answer
Good Afternoon, I am in the United States Marine Corps. I know that different branches allow diffent age groups to join. To my knowlage you could possibly look at enlisting in the Air Force, Navy, or Coast Gaurd.
Natalia Alford
CRNA
2
Answers
Hollywood, Florida
Updated
Natalia’s Answer
CRNA is a fantastic profession and you can pursue it as a career and without military.
Age is not an issue - I was 40 when i graduated from CRNA school. Good luck!
Age is not an issue - I was 40 when i graduated from CRNA school. Good luck!
Robert Peters
Fleet Service Agent/ Driver
23
Answers
Kissimmee, Florida
Updated
Robert’s Answer
Hi Joanna,
congratulations on your sons enlistment and being a mom. Based on your age you will qualify but you would need to reach out to each branch to see your options. I have added the Army and Navy's requirements.
https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/career-match/science-medicine/intensive-care/66f-nurse-anesthetist.html
https://www.airforce.com/careers/healthcare/certified-registered-nurse-anesthetist
congratulations on your sons enlistment and being a mom. Based on your age you will qualify but you would need to reach out to each branch to see your options. I have added the Army and Navy's requirements.
Robert recommends the following next steps:
This was super helpful, thank you!
Joanna
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3773
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Joanna,
Are you wondering if a 37-year-old mom can enlist in the military with the goal of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)? Let's explore this possibility.
Age Factors in Military Enlistment: The U.S. military doesn't rigidly enforce age limits for enlistment. However, age restrictions may apply to specific roles and programs. As a 37-year-old, you might still qualify to enlist, but certain positions may have age prerequisites in some branches. Joining the military later in life isn't generally discouraged, as maturity and life experience can be beneficial assets.
Choosing a Military Branch for Nursing and Anesthetics: All military branches, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard, offer opportunities for nursing careers, such as becoming a CRNA. When deciding on a branch, take into account factors like the presence of nursing programs, educational benefits, deployment obligations, and career progression possibilities.
Strategies for a Military Nursing Career:
Active Duty or Reserves: You have the option to enlist as active duty or in the reserves. Active duty involves a full-time commitment, while reserves offer part-time service, allowing you to continue your education or civilian career. Both options have their advantages, so choose the one that best matches your goals and family commitments.
Completing a BSN: You can earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) before enlisting or use your military service to finance your education. Some branches offer programs like the Nurse Candidate Program or Health Professions Scholarship Program, which provide financial aid for nursing education in return for service commitments.
Career Advancement: To become a CRNA, you'll need to pursue advanced education and training beyond a BSN. The military provides opportunities for nurses to further their education through programs like the Army Graduate Program in Anesthesia Nursing or the Navy Nurse Corps Anesthesia Program.
In summary, as a 37-year-old single mother interested in a CRNA career in the military, it's crucial to investigate each branch's nursing programs, compare the benefits of active duty versus reserves, and plan how to reach your educational goals while managing your family duties.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
U.S. Department of Defense (DoD): The DoD's official website offers information on military branches, eligibility criteria, and career opportunities within the armed forces.
American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA): AANA provides resources on becoming a CRNA, including educational routes and certification prerequisites.
Military Health System (MHS): The MHS website gives details on healthcare careers in the military, including nursing programs and opportunities for advanced practice nurses like CRNAs.
May God bless you!
James Constantine Frangos.
Are you wondering if a 37-year-old mom can enlist in the military with the goal of becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA)? Let's explore this possibility.
Age Factors in Military Enlistment: The U.S. military doesn't rigidly enforce age limits for enlistment. However, age restrictions may apply to specific roles and programs. As a 37-year-old, you might still qualify to enlist, but certain positions may have age prerequisites in some branches. Joining the military later in life isn't generally discouraged, as maturity and life experience can be beneficial assets.
Choosing a Military Branch for Nursing and Anesthetics: All military branches, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard, offer opportunities for nursing careers, such as becoming a CRNA. When deciding on a branch, take into account factors like the presence of nursing programs, educational benefits, deployment obligations, and career progression possibilities.
Strategies for a Military Nursing Career:
Active Duty or Reserves: You have the option to enlist as active duty or in the reserves. Active duty involves a full-time commitment, while reserves offer part-time service, allowing you to continue your education or civilian career. Both options have their advantages, so choose the one that best matches your goals and family commitments.
Completing a BSN: You can earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) before enlisting or use your military service to finance your education. Some branches offer programs like the Nurse Candidate Program or Health Professions Scholarship Program, which provide financial aid for nursing education in return for service commitments.
Career Advancement: To become a CRNA, you'll need to pursue advanced education and training beyond a BSN. The military provides opportunities for nurses to further their education through programs like the Army Graduate Program in Anesthesia Nursing or the Navy Nurse Corps Anesthesia Program.
In summary, as a 37-year-old single mother interested in a CRNA career in the military, it's crucial to investigate each branch's nursing programs, compare the benefits of active duty versus reserves, and plan how to reach your educational goals while managing your family duties.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
U.S. Department of Defense (DoD): The DoD's official website offers information on military branches, eligibility criteria, and career opportunities within the armed forces.
American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA): AANA provides resources on becoming a CRNA, including educational routes and certification prerequisites.
Military Health System (MHS): The MHS website gives details on healthcare careers in the military, including nursing programs and opportunities for advanced practice nurses like CRNAs.
May God bless you!
James Constantine Frangos.
Hi James! This is great information. Thank you so much for taking the time to thoroughly respond and break down the information for me. I will be reaching out to different branches this week to see how I can accomplish my goals and with your response, I feel more comfortable moving forward.
Joanna
david kirk
Retired Computing Manager
472
Answers
Syracuse, New York
Updated
david’s Answer
Find a qualified recruiter for in-depth discussion, not necessarily Navy. Age limit is 41. You may get some useful comments here, but what will do you the most good is a discussion with a recruiter. I suggest speaking with Army and Air Force and also Marines, although physical requirements may be stronger in some career paths. I admire your interest, as I was in military and it launched me well into a career after discharge. This URL may get you started: https://www.navy.com/joining/requirements and there are enlistment bonuses.