So, you’re a nurse. What next?
You worked hard to become a nurse; however, over time, you might start feeling stagnant in your work and wonder what’s next in your career. Here are several ideas for ways to grow within your current job, approach a career change, and/or further your education.
Within Your Current Job
- Join committees.
- Volunteer to orientate new staff.
- Become a preceptor.
Outside Your Job
If you’re fulfilled in your job, focusing on hobbies and volunteering can complement your career. Find an organization you’re passionate about and see what roles they need. One example is volunteering as a medical writer.
Career Changes
- Check AAN’s Career Centre for jobs across the province!
- Work on a different unit (AHS always has openings).
- Work in a private clinic.
- Work in a different practice setting
- Part-time or casual research position.
- Universities are constantly looking for skilled research associates, such as nurses.
- A job in medical sales.
- Nurses are perfect candidates for medical sales reps due to our unique knowledge.
- Find a job with a local nursing faculty and teach clinical nursing classes.
Further Your Education
- Take classes and attend conferences.
- AAN offers a variety of professional development resources.
- Obtain a master’s in nursing.
- Pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA).
- For those wanting a leadership path, an MBA can open up business and management positions.
By exploring these avenues, you can find new challenges and opportunities to grow both personally and professionally, and reignite your nursing passion.
Erika Kana is an RN located in Calgary, Alberta. For the past two years, she’s been specializing in emergency medicine. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, playing with her dog, and writing health content.
