Is it possible to go to school with this work schedule?

Question

I work Monday through Friday and every other Sat. from 12 PM to 8 PM. I want to go to school for radiology or possibly nursing. I heard the schedule for that can be demanding - the problem is my work schedule isn't flexible and I can't work less hours because I live on my own and have rent and bills to keep up with. I have no family that can help me financially. What should I do? Has anyone pulled off a work/school schedule like this before? Plus, I heard that during the school year, you have to do internships in hospitals. I can't ask for all of that time off (I'm new at this job) and if they find out I'm going to school in the medical field, they will probably replace me and then I'll have no job.

leilei · Accepted Answer

I worked full-time, cared for a child, husband and home while going to school full-time.  BUT, my major was in Criminal Justice and when it came time to do my internship, I had to change jobs. Nursing is a very competitive program to go into, and as you say you'll be having to do internships in hospitals (I don't know about radiology, but I can't imagine it being any less so). Why don't you take your general ed. classes now, and start looking for a more flexible job (unless you're set on staying at your present job)? It's always easier to get another job when you already have one (don't know why--just seems to be that way). =) You could also apply for grants and loans, to possibly to be able to cut back on your hours at work. I hope things work out well for you.

jmason024 · Answer

Find a different job. I work and go to school full time. I don't sleep sometimes when things pile up, but it works. Every Radiology program I have heard of is all day M-F. My friend is in one, and it's 8-4. Find a job waiting tables at night. Don't pass on getting an education to keep a job you don't see yourself having in 5 years.

Lev8mysoul · Answer

Look into financial aid, loans and grants.  If you qualify for it, you would be able to live on or near campus and do your schooling, and would possibly get enough to cover your living expenses as well.  Talk to the financial aid office of the school you want to go to and see what they tell you.
 
I do know someone who graduated from nursing school and it was a very grueling schedule.  I really doubt, from what I saw with her, that working a full time job, especially one with your schedule, you would be able to add nursing courses to that and be successful.  From what I saw from my friend, nursing school is a full time job in and of itself.  She got through it (2 years ago) and is now doing the job she's been dreaming of for years.  She says to this day the sacrifices she made were well worth the effort and the time.  Good luck in whatever you choose to do.

crazy_magic2003 · Answer

alot of schools have flexible classes so u can choose the class at the time that you wish...im pretty sure radiography is only a two year thing so u can do ur pre-reqs whenever and then maybe look for a diffrent job (possibly) for the next year or you never no u can talk to students who are in that program now and kinda see what the schedule is...if u call the school and go for a tour u can ask and they will find out for you.

RadTech - BAS RT(R)(ARRT) · Answer

Accredited radiologic technology programs are generally 40 hours per week, during the day, for 2 years. 

If you want it, the job has to go.

tracymoo · Answer

Nursing programs are very competitive (read high GPA, no absences, etc) and also have a work/study component.  After the first semester, your work schedule would definitely be a hinderance to success.
Look into loans and grants, and good luck!!
We need more dedicated professionals in nursing

Men In Black-Agent J · Answer

It seems tough to me. May you should go to school at night and work at day time.

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Is it possible to go to school with this work schedule?

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