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Medical field-related soul searching...

I am directing this question primarily at Dr. Chu, although I welcome anyone's input. I work in a plastic surgeon's office. My partner is trans. Although I am cisgendered, I want to help the community if I can, as I've seen the many service gaps in the medical field for trans people. I'm trying to decide what to do with my life. I'm 23, and I attended a year of college but put it on hold for financial/life reasons. I'm not dumb, scholastically at least - I was on the Dean's list - but I'm trying to make a good, informed life decision. I am planning to go back, but I am not sure what I want to do. I think I'm a bit old/spoiled for medical school (I work full-time and I'm the primary earner in my household, and the thought of incurring that much debt and spending so many years studying is pretty appalling, although my boss keeps telling me I should become a surgeon), and I've considered becoming an ARNP. I know that you have an ARNP practicing at Capitol Hill Medical, and I am hoping that you can give me a bit of feedback/advice on what you would do in my situation. Also, do you think that there is a decent market for an ARNP specializing in LGBT issues? Thanks!

dezzdemonaa asked in College / Continuing Ed 11 months ago | Report

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  • Marie-laveau-voodoo-queen_small
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    Pepper Spray

    I'm not a doctor, however, I am acquainted with the challenges of being a non-trad student.

    The costs of pursuing higher education are formidable, but it's totally worth it. Yes, student loans entail a huge liability once your education is completed, but if you're working in a field that you are passionate about, those monthly payments don't seem like that big of a deal. This is especially true given that you would be in a nursing/PA/surgeon track--all of which are known to pay pretty good.

    You also have your age going for you; once you turn 24, you'll be considered an independent student making you more eligible for grants (disclaimer: I heard a rumor that that age was being raised to 26--I don't know if this has taken place or if it ever will).

    There are ways to side step student loans, or at least, lessen your dependence on them. For example, the McNair Scholarship helps students who are first generation college students or are members of a minority group pursue Post-Baccalaureate education. You could also look into getting an RN via community college; this option is totally affordable, and whomever you end up being employed with may assist with financing further education.

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ronald_E._McNair_Post-Baccalaureate_Achievement_Program

    Pepper Spray answered in College / Continuing Ed 11 months ago | Report
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