PA or ABSN/NP pls help
Hi there! Long time reader, first time poster on this board. I have a background in business, and I’m a couple years post grad. I’ve been blessed to have a well paying job that supports my lifestyle, but I’m struggling to find meaning in it and just don’t see myself staying in business for the longterm. I have really enjoyed the (50+ hours) shadowing I’ve done so far with “middle level providers” NP and PA.
Non science GPA was a 4.0. and I’ve been getting A’s and all my pre-reqs while working full-time and managing a business. I’m VERY hesitant to go down the PA school because it seems just as expensive as doing an ABSN, working a few years (which I wouldn’t mind) then working through a NP program. What worries me about PA school is it seems like an accelerated med school. Even though I have good grades I worry about failing out, taking on debt, and starting over (I’m a bit dramatic). I’d also have to quit my lucrative corporate job and work as a CNA/MA and pray I get in somewhere. Also have to get some cert to work as CNA/MA which can be pricey.
A good problem to have, but I also have a house that is close to a ($40k) ABSN program which I know I can get into, and two private PA schools (cost of attendance $120k for each). I’d like to apply to as many schools as possible if I go PA, but having to move ontop of that seems rough too.
For context, I’m 26 and make $80k a year, so I’d take a small pay cut as a new grad.
I fully understand I’m in a good position and incredibly blessed. Thank you in advance for any insight you can provide!